A visit to a Shinto shrine (hatsumode) is one of the first things to do during the New Year's celebrations in Japan.  Typically, most shrines are full of visitors for a few days after New Year's Day.  People offer money or food and sake to the gods and pray for good health, safety, happiness and prosperity for a new year.

I visited Yasaka Shrine a few days ago where I saw shrine workers busily preparing for the New Year's visitors in one corner.  Other than that, it was pretty quiet and I could even hear shrine maidens' gentle footsteps.

Yasaka Shrine, Kyoto, Japan II

Media: Original watercolor on paper
Image Size: 8.25 x 11.5 in. (on 9 x 12 in. paper)
Mat/Frame: No
Purchase: Sold