Exploring Miyajitake Shrine and Its Blooming Irises

 

Today, I finally managed to find a spare couple of hours in my busy schedule, so I thought, "Why not?" and decided to pay a visit to Miyajitake Shrine.

Starting tomorrow, May 27th, they will be hosting the Iris Festival.

As of now, there aren't many visitors or spectators around.

I noticed irises adorned on the stone steps, but they were mostly in bud form.



But look! Some of them have bloomed!



I've climbed these steps many times before, but this is the first time I've seen irises decorating them like this.



The lush green of the trees has become more intense.



The approach path, illuminated by the golden sunset, is beautiful, but this view is equally stunning.



There's something about reaching this point that makes me feel refreshed and energized.



The plum fruits are already plump and ripe.



When I came here in February this year, the flowers were in bloom.



Various round stones, each representing a wish, are neatly arranged.



Although the Iris Festival starts tomorrow, it's still a bit early for iris viewing.



Even the irises within the shrine grounds are still in bud form.

I wonder what the iris garden looks like?

The main hall's roof glistens brilliantly.

Even from a distance, you can feel the pleasant atmosphere.



Although they're not in full bloom yet, there's a sense of the budding power, and it brings me joy.



I'm not very knowledgeable about flowers, but these are called "Edo irises."








I pass through a gate resembling "Yatsuhashi" and reach the opposite side.



There's a building in the traditional thatched-roof style, but it seems to have aged considerably.



During the Iris Festival this weekend, many people will come here to admire the flowers.



On the way back, I spotted lovely azaleas in full bloom.



I heard that there's a walking trail all the way to the top of Mount Miyajitake, but I doubt I'll be climbing it.
　

It's about time for me to hurry back and get ready.

As I glanced at the back of the building, I realized that the original Miyajitake Shrine and main hall were located here. The large camphor and pine trees were considered sacred trees.

Now, a different building is situated at the top of the stone steps, which is used for various events. It stands silently without catching the attention of many visitors to Miyajitake Shrine.

At the end of the stone steps, where the approach path extends towards the sea, beyond the coastal torii gate, and right in front of the floating Aino-shima Island, there used to be the original main hall. It's fascinating to imagine all the possibilities.