02 January 2012 09:00
TOSEI-SHA PUBLICATIONS Megumi IWATA "Tatara"
The snow covered Izumo seen from the window of the air-plane was just so refreshing that I felt myself purified as if landing on to the holy ground.
Driving for one hour and half from the air port, I went through a long tunnel jus like the womb of a huge dragon. Having passed quiet country village, I headed forth into a hilly cedar mountain. I couldn't help sensing god's presence there.
I pushed my way through the deep snow, there appeared Kanayago-jinja. (the guardian deity of iron). I had to climb the steep approach to the shrine.
Snow was swept clean around the shrine and I saw names of worshippers praying for the success of their Kera making were recorded in a note-book.
I simply felt a strong impulse to observe how iron be made.
Having opened door, there I found Tatara.
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