Sake and Shrines

It is common sight to see decorative sake barrels like these stacked up and displayed in wooden frames at Shinto shrines.  The barrels themselves are empty but a full of spiritual significance. 

Sake is a way to bring the people and gods together; it is common for sake to be distributed in Shinto rites and festivals.   The sake is donated by local brewers who provide as much as is needed for the event.  Holding up to 72 litres in each barrel, thats a LOT of sake! 

Think I will raise a glass or two to Joe and to Blip and hope that this wonderful community rises from the ashes like a phoenix - even more wonderful than before... in the meantime #blipforever!

Today, gloriously drunk, we no longer know the meaning of unhappiness.
Zen hermit-monk-poet Ryokan