One of the great things about MORI LIVING residences is their central, convenient locations. Close to schools, business districts, shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, residents can be sure that they are never far from whatever they need in Tokyo.

Atago Green Hills Forest Tower is no exception. One of the gems of its wonderful location is the nearby Atago shrine, built in 1603. The shrine is famous throughout Japan for several reasons. First of all is its location - it stands atop Mt. Atago, the highest land within Tokyo's 23 wards at 26 meters. The shrine itself is famous for its high, steep stone stairs. The stairs represent success in life; it is said that people who walk up the stairs will be promoted. There is also a legend of a young samurai who rode his horse up the stairs to deliver flowers to the shogun. During a festival held at the shrine each summer, horses are rode up these stairs, keeping the legend alive.

Another festival held at the shrine is the Hozuki Festival, in June of every year. Hozuki is the Japanese word for Chinese lantern plants, which are said to ward off evil spirits from the place in which they are kept. During the two-day festival, roughly 1,500 of these plants are sold to visitors. After purchasing their plants, worshippers proceed to the main shrine, where they are blessed by a Shinto priest.

But even at times other than the popular festivals, Atago shrine is a beautiful and peaceful retreat from the busy city. The noise from the street below is absorbed and dimmed by the towering trees that also block out much of the harsh June sunlight, creating a cool summer oasis. A small pond filled with koi (carp) is popular with young children.

When our visit to the festival comes to an end, we are relieved to learn that there is an elevator installed between the top of the mountain and the grounds of Atago Green Hills, saving our shaking legs from the walk back down. Leave it to MORI LIVING to think of the small details!

Kelly