The shrine in Marunouchi is a little different to the 1500 or so others in Tokyo. It has the same trappings, an altar, a bell, paper lanterns and a coil of twisted rope, but it sits on a patch of bright green AstroTurf, and its torii, the distinctive red entry gate, is in the unmistakable shape of a set of goal posts. They even have a wrap of foam padding. There’s a bilingual sign outside inviting you to stop and “pray for the happiness of all people who love rugby”, and a little how‑to guide for all of us who don’t know how to do it. Ring the bell. Bow twice. Clap twice. Bow again.
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Written by Andy Bull in Tokyo
This news first appeared on https://www.theguardian.com/sport/blog/2019/oct/22/japan-rugby-world-cup under the title “Joy and pride stirred by Japan is real value of this Rugby World Cup | Andy Bull”. Bolchha Nepal is not responsible or affiliated towards the opinion expressed in this news article.
