Wind Chimes dancing in the breeze send a crisp soothing sound, the sound of summer to the Japanese.
In July and August, the Hikawa Shrine in Kawagoe, 40 kilometers northwest of Tokyo, displays thousands of wind chimes.
People write down their prayers and wishes on a small wooden plaque and tie it to the chime, letting the wind carry them to gods and the beloved ones.
At night, the illuminated chimes give a fanciful feel.
Hikawa Shrine’s chimes are known for their match making power. Nowadays, there are all sorts of wishes. Students want good test results and first time car owners pray for driving safely.
Like in Hikawa Shrine, you can find a wind chime festival in many places in Japan. With bundles and bundles of wooden plaques waiting in line, the ethereal sound of the delicate chimes seem to carry a heavy-weight.
