RETREAT DAY 1: Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine

We picked up the hire car and all the members of our group and headed to our first destination,  Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine.  

This shrine was surrounded by so much forest and I love that there were so many trees here. Japan has something very special with the presence of trees at each Shrine. 

Even when there is no Wind to be felt, you can feel the life and energy of the trees in the air as you pass by.  

I love that everyone was able to take their shoes off and soak their feet in the waterway by the entrance as a cleansing before going into this place. The water was cold and welcoming!

This Shrine features two Cedar Trees that are over a thousand years old, which gives a bit of insight into how long Mount Fuji has been venerated by the local people and pilgrims alike. 

​Back in the Edo Period, pilgrims could begin their trek to the top of Mount Fuji from a small gate at the back of this Shrine. ​

After exploring this Shrine and praying here, we conducted our opening ritual for the retreat group to welcome them into the shared space together. 

This particular location of the Shrine grounds was like our initiation space for our group members.

During our opening meditation, ​I perceived a Golden Dragon emerging from the summit of Mt Fuji which I took as a sign of radiant blessings, growth and rejuvenation from this retreat and the Vibrational Essence that would come out of this.

The adventure continues in the next post!