Ema (wishes or prayers plaques) at Kasuga Taisha Shinto shrine, Nara, Japan

ema prayers wishes shrine nara japan wooden plaques spirituality sacred visitors tranquility offerings tradition culture japanese shinto calligraphy artistry religion faith blessings colors craftsmanship tourism pathways experiences space community connections rituals heartfelt storytelling nature heritage architecture daily life mindfulness devotion symbols peaceful hope aspirations meditation beliefs landscape harmony celebration