A talisman against evil at Sensō-ji
Hanging on the rear face of the Hōzōmon Gate at Sensō-ji—Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple—this massive straw sandal (O-waraji) serves as a sacred talisman against evil spirits.
Measuring nearly 4.5 meters (about 15 feet) in length and weighing approximately 500 kilograms (roughly 1,100 pounds), the gigantic woven sandal functions as a psychological deterrent based on local folklore. According to tradition, invading demons look upon the oversized footwear and assume the temple is patrolled by a formidable giant, deterring them from entering. Over time, the O-waraji also became a cultural symbol of good fortune for travelers, who visit to pray for safe journeys and physical endurance.
The wooden plaque affixed to the center reads:
"奉納 山形県村山市 奉賛会"
(Dedicated by the Support Association of Murayama City, Yamagata Prefecture)
Since 1941, the citizens of Murayama City have maintained the practice of hand-crafting and donating a fresh pair of these monumental straw sandals to Sensō-ji approximately every ten years. This cultural exchange was initiated as a prayer for peace and continues to connect rural artisans with historic Tokyo.
Camera: Canon EOS 800D / Rebel T7i / Kiss X9i
Lens: TAMRON SP 28-75mm F/2.8 Di A09E
Capture Information:
Focal Length: 28.0 mm
Shutter Speed: 1/320
Aperture: f/2.8
ISO: 100
Photo Taken: April 06, 2024
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