Ascension (2009) 사진 Douglas Capron 로

We see a young family engaged in a rite of passage in the middle of the metropolis of Tokyo. A mother and father lend a helping hand to their son as they make their way towards Atago-Jinja Shrine, in Minato-Ku, Tokyo, Japan. Established in 1603 at the start of the Edo period, as a fire lookout to protect the new capitol, this Shinto shrine is renowned for its long, steep, ancient stone staircase. The steps themselves are known as the Shussei no Ishiden, or “Stone Steps to Success.” According to legend a young Samurai wanted to impress the Shogun by presenting his court with beautiful plum blossoms that were prevalent on the mountain. To reach the shrine, the man rapidly rode his horse up the steep staircase, taking only one minute to reach the top, although it took 45 minutes to go back down, leaving the horse absolutely exhausted by the end. After this daring feat the young Samurai was regarded as the greatest horse master of all time and his name spread across the nation. Ever since people have considered climbing the stairs to be a very auspicious act, believed to bring success and good fortune.

관련 테마

TokyoJapanFamilyLoveCityscape