Years of Tranquility: Prayers and Memories at the Open-Air Shrine.

Day 1 Early in the morning, I arrived at the Open-Air Shrine located in the heart of Osaka, also known as the 'Couple Shrine,' famous for prayers for love and family harmony. Surrounded by the bustling urban environment, stepping into the shrine felt like entering a serene world apart. Walking along the path, I earnestly prayed in front of the main hall, hands clasped, silently wishing for the future. Then, I discovered a corner dedicated to tying wish ribbons, chose a pink silk ribbon, and tied my wish to a branch, hoping it would be carried to the gods by the wind. At noon, I walked to a nearby traditional teahouse, savoring the fragrant matcha and wagashi, experiencing the pure taste of Japanese culture. In the afternoon, I strolled through the alleys around the shrine, exploring the understated yet storied old shops, feeling as if time had quietly slowed down here. Day 2 On the second day, I made a point to revisit the Open-Air Shrine at dawn. In the tranquil atmosphere, sunlight filtered through the leaves, adding a soft glow to the shrine. I participated in a blessing ceremony hosted by the shrine's priests, a rare cultural experience that deepened my understanding of traditional Japanese beliefs. After the ceremony, I visited the shrine's cultural exhibition area, which displayed many historical artifacts and traditional ritual tools, making me feel as if I had traveled back to ancient times. At noon, I walked to a nearby shopping street for lunch, enjoying the local flavor of sukiyaki, with its warm broth bringing a sense of happiness. In the afternoon, I wandered around and stumbled upon a small shop selling handmade accessories, buying a pair of crane-shaped earrings symbolizing happiness as a souvenir. At dusk, I took a photo by the stone lanterns in front of the shrine, capturing the beautiful memories of these two days in the picture.