In the Japanese folklore, it is believed that the evil spirits are coming from northeast. Due to this belief, in the places where traditional customs are followed, in the northeast direction are often placed statues of guardian deities, or auspicious plants, known to bring good fortune.

At some temples, such as the Kodaiji Temple in Higashiyama, Kyoto, in the northeastern area there’s a very beautiful bamboo grove, meant to ward off evil spirits.

Bamboo grove, Kodaiji Temple, Higashiyama, Kyoto

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Yesterday’s Japan Photo: Koko-kyo, the “straddling rainbow” bridge