Animals Receive Blessings in Place of Children in Aging Japan — VOA Learning English
Topics: мистецтво й музика
Beginning
A traditional ceremony for children in Japan is growing popular for animals there as well.
Natsuki Aoki recently flew with her two Chihuahua dogs from the western city of Hiroshima to Tokyo, the nation’s capital. She took the trip so the little dogs could receive a special blessing at the Zama Shrine, a Shinto holy place.
Aoki noted that few religious centers are open to animals. “I think it would be great to see more places like this," the 33-year-old said on Tuesday.
The Zama Shrine dates back to the 6th century. It is about 25 kilometers southwest of Tokyo. The religious center established a prayer area for animals in 2012. It now hosts Shichi-Go-San ceremonies where animal owners can pray…
Tap any word for its translation at once; the word goes into your deck together with its sentence.