The Land of the Rising Sun, Japan, is a country of contradictions. Dichotomies of gracious smiles quiver on a balance with steel grit. Gleaming towers scratch the sky. Shadows may fall; still ancient temples maintain their dignity.
In Nagoya, taxis buzz like bees collecting honey. Business people scurry from trains to buses. Yet, smack dab in the center of the city is Atsuta Shrine. Bow, step through the winged torii gates and Nagoya noise disappears. A serene hush embraces the sacred grounds.
Atsuta Shrine is a spiritual oasis in the city. It’s one in countless shrines across Japan which offers refuge from the world. Or should I say refocuses visitors on their Spirits? (Meiji Shrine in Tokyo is another example. The shrine resides right next to Harajuku train station – aka the gateway into the mecca for the fashionistas.)
Many of the magical entry points into nature and Spirit in Japan are surrounded by eateries. Entrance into Nagoya’s Atsuta Shrine is free. However, a meal at the renowned eel restaurant, Atsuta Horaiken will cost you a pretty yen. (But well worth the visit according to satisfied Yelp subscribers.)
A trip to Japan – for most of us – demands saving dollars. Good news: While you are plunking pennies into your piggy bank, you can still enjoy a spiritual oasis in the City of Angels.
111 Places in Los Angeles That You Must Not Miss states that Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens is the perfect place to “Find Your Self.” Indeed, the tiered garden and the labyrinth offer opportunities to bask in the tranquility which is ever present. If you like Asian accented gardens, you’ll love the bamboo and Japanese koi goldfish pond.
On Wednesday, June 27, 2018, there is an added bonus. A Heaven on Earth Summer Concert & Luncheon will take place at Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens. Doors open at 12 noon. A summer feast will delight the eyes and stomach at 1 pm. Tours of the gorgeous gardens and historic home are available. Docents can offer tips for walking the Chartres-Cathedral-inspired labyrinth, too.
Delicious music will also dance through the halls of the mansion. Award-winning composer and keyboardist, Merrill Collins will play the piano. She’s a voting member of the Grammy Foundation whose works have been hailed as “Gifts of Service to the World.” Adding her heavenly talents to the concert is acclaimed violinist, Nicole Bush. Nicole has played with prestigious orchestras such as the LA Philharmonic and is heard on Frank Sinatra and Barbara Streisand recordings.
Are you in LA on June 27th?
Claim your Heaven on Earth with a visit to Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens.
Wishing you heavenly experiences wherever life may take you.
