There was an incense burner at the end of a narrow alley and a temple

Temple at end of lane — Temple at the end of an alley

As I walked down the alley, I saw another temple at the end of it. It was small in size and somewhat dingy in appearance. As a passing tourist, I had no idea what religion this temple belonged to. I noticed a sign that read “Shin Buddhist Temple. I thought it might be a Buddhist temple because of the character for “Buddha,” but that is not necessarily the case, as it also has the character for “God." Either way, this temple is quiet and secluded, unlike other busy temples.

There are no visitors to be seen at all. There is an incense burner in front of the entrance, but no smoke is rising and there is no sign of worshippers. Furthermore, the entrance was fenced off, and it appeared that no one was allowed to enter. From the looks of it, it is possible that the shrine is dedicated to the clan deity of a particular family, rather than a place for the general public to visit.

As I stand in front of this unpopular temple, I think that the gods enshrined here must have a lot of free time on their hands. If people don't visit and make wishes, it must be a boring day for the gods. Nevertheless, the unique atmosphere of silence in the temple is something you cannot experience in a busy temple, and I was somehow drawn in just by standing and looking at the temple.

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