The true beauty reflected on the mirror votive plaques at Kawai Shrine in Kyoto
Kawai Shrine, Kyoto | True beauty reflected in the mirror votive plaques
"Where is the beauty?"
With this question in mind, I walked through Tadasu no Mori Forest in Kyoto.
At the end of a path where sunlight filters through the trees, there is a quiet shrine.
This is Kawai Shrine, a sacred place dedicated to the beautiful goddess Tamayorihime, protecting women.
Mirror Ema | Draw your wishes and express your other self
The specialty of Kawai Shrine is the "Kagami Ema" (mirror votive plaque) in the shape of a hand mirror.
What you draw there is the face you want to have.
But maybe what I'm really depicting is the emotion I want to have.
"I hope you will love yourself more" " Heart
May you become a clear-minded person."
It felt as though I could hear that voice coming from deep inside the ema.
Tadasu Forest | A time enveloped in tranquility
Kawai Shrine is a sub-shrine of Shimogamo Shrine, a World Heritage Site.
The Tadasu no Mori forest that spreads across the temple grounds is one of the most tranquil spots in Kyoto.
You can get away from the hustle and bustle of the tourist areas and just listen to the sounds of the trees.
That time may be the time when beauty cannot be restored.
Bijinsui | A gentle wish to heal from the inside
A beauty drink called "Mizubijin" is also given out within the temple grounds.
Made with quince fruit, holy water, and honey, the flavor is
It's nostalgic and gentle.
A cup that will not only nourish your skin but also your soul.
The beauty of the ordinary
Kawai Shrine is not just a place to pray for beauty.
A place where you can casually take time to reflect on yourself.
The face drawn on the mirror ema is surely your future self.
But the outline of that vision can only be drawn here and now.