I’m not exactly sure what this is except that it is like a sumi circle or the circle of life. It stands before one of the shrines of Nikko, so I believe it is an entrance into the sacred. People there were bowing before walking through, some in gassho, some not. Then, they would walk around it and do it again, and then one more time. So, I did the same. I suspect it is of Shinto origin, but I brought only myself to it.
It stands as impermanent when seen against the “permanent,” albeit beautifully constructed, gate behind it.
If it is meant to be a gate into a sacred realm, then it was probably not appropriate to have my picture taken in front of it.
About another of the shrines, I asked whether I could take pictures. I was told I should take pictures only from the side. Doing so directly in front was forbidden since “God was there.” I will always try to respect these beliefs of others. They do not harm me, and I can still appreciate the meaning they have for me.
Autumn In Japan 