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Description

A miko, also known as a shrine maiden, is a young priestess who works at a Shinto shrine. In modern Japanese culture, miko are considered an institutionalized role in daily life, trained to perform various tasks within the shrine context. Let’s delve into the details of their lifestyle:
Traditional Attire:
A miko typically wears a pair of red hakama (divided, pleated trousers), a white kosode (a predecessor of the kimono), and sometimes white or red hair ribbons.
The color white symbolizes purity in Shinto beliefs.
During Kagura dances, miko wear an additional garment called a chihaya.
Sacred Duties:
Kagura Dance: Miko perform the sacred Kagura dance, which entertains and satisfies the Shinto deities.
Cleansing Rituals: They participate in sacred cleansing activities.
Divinations: Miko practice divination, seeking insights and guidance from the divine.
Exorcisms: They are involved in exorcising negative energies or spirits.
Traditional Tools:
Azusa Yumi (梓弓): A catalpa bow used in rituals.
Tamagushi (玉串): Offertory sakaki-tree branches.
Gehōbako (外法箱): A “supernatural box” containing dolls, animal and human skulls, and Shinto prayer beads.
Miko also use bells, drums, candles, gohei (ritual wands), and bowls of rice during ceremonies.
Historical Context:
Miko were once believed to be shamans and performed spirit possession and takusen (communication with kami or spirits).
Over time, they transitioned from shrine service to working independently in secular society.
In summary, miko play a vital role in maintaining the spiritual and cultural heritage of Shinto shrines, bridging the gap between the earthly and divine realms. 🌸🔔🙏
You can check another gallery for another side of Mikos that probably will surprise you ~

Description

A miko, also known as a shrine maiden, is a young priestess who works at a Shinto shrine. In modern Japanese culture, miko are considered an institutionalized role in daily life, trained to perform various tasks within the shrine context. Let’s delve into the details of their lifestyle:
Traditional Attire:
A miko typically wears a pair of red hakama (divided, pleated trousers), a white kosode (a predecessor of the kimono), and sometimes white or red hair ribbons.
The color white symbolizes purity in Shinto beliefs.
During Kagura dances, miko wear an additional garment called a chihaya.
Sacred Duties:
Kagura Dance: Miko perform the sacred Kagura dance, which entertains and satisfies the Shinto deities.
Cleansing Rituals: They participate in sacred cleansing activities.
Divinations: Miko practice divination, seeking insights and guidance from the divine.
Exorcisms: They are involved in exorcising negative energies or spirits.
Traditional Tools:
Azusa Yumi (梓弓): A catalpa bow used in rituals.
Tamagushi (玉串): Offertory sakaki-tree branches.
Gehōbako (外法箱): A “supernatural box” containing dolls, animal and human skulls, and Shinto prayer beads.
Miko also use bells, drums, candles, gohei (ritual wands), and bowls of rice during ceremonies.
Historical Context:
Miko were once believed to be shamans and performed spirit possession and takusen (communication with kami or spirits).
Over time, they transitioned from shrine service to working independently in secular society.
In summary, miko play a vital role in maintaining the spiritual and cultural heritage of Shinto shrines, bridging the gap between the earthly and divine realms. 🌸🔔🙏
You can check another gallery for another side of Mikos that probably will surprise you ~