Silence after the rain (Kamishikimi Kumanoza Shrine, Kumamoto, Japan)

Oil on canvas

100.0 × 65.2cm | 25 1/2 × 39 1/4in

​

​

This shirine, located in Takamori-cho, Aso-gun, in Kumamoto prefectre, is said to have been built around the early 14th to15th century.

 

It enshirines Izanagi-no-Mikoto, the male deity who created the Japanese islands, Izanami-no-Mikoto, the female deity who created many other deities, and Takeiwatatsu-no-Mikoto, the deity associated with the development of the Aso region.    These deities have been passed down in Japanese mythology.

 

On an early morning in June 2024, the day after a long rain that had fallen until the previous day, I visited the shrine for sketching to work on this painting.

 

In Japan, the rain that falls at shrines has been called "Misogi-no-Ame" or Purification Rain since ancient times.     This rain is believed to wash away "Kegare" or Impurities such as jealousy, envy, hatred, or sorrow that we unconsciously absorb from others in our daily lives.    As it purifies our souls, it has been considered a blessing.

 

Japanese cedar forest spreads throughout the precints, with over100 stone lanterns lining each side of the path to the main shrine.     The mossy green fantastical atmosphere evokes a sense of entering another world.

 

Famous as a filming location for the Japanese anime "Ruroni-kenshin", this shrine is featured on social media worldwide, drawing visitors even from overseas.

 

Stepping onto the tanquil sanctuary grounds offers a peaceful respite from daily life and a moment for quiet self-reflection.