A visit to Hiratsuka Shrine would be recommended any time of the year, but if you can make it for the annual Bonbori Matsuri (Lantern Festival) in September you're in for a veritable shrine experience.
A personal highlight of the shrine grounds is the sacred pond filled with red coy, turtles and ducks.
The mood at the festival was dreamy with the lights dancing in the night. No doubt the cups of sake added to the feeling of a lovely midsummer eve within the oasis of the shrine.
Carrie Jacobs @carriel.n.jacobs
Hailing from Portland Oregon, I am a recent transplant to Zama, Japan here in Kanagawa. Having worked for a high school international exchange organization for close to 8 years, I'm inspired by all things intercultural and love to travel! When in a new country I am like a sponge, absorbing as muc...
