‘A form of meditation’: a photographic haiku to Japan – in pictures

Torii, Study 1, Takashima, Honshu, 2002

‘Torii gates symbolise the Shinto belief that deities reside not just in shrines, temples, churches, mosques and synagogues but in nature; in the earth, sky and water. These gates serve as reminders to respect and honour the land, the earth and our universe. Every individual will have their own interpretations, but when I see a Torii gate, I immediately want to free myself from unwanted distractions, focus on what is important, escape from the noise of the world, unclutter my “stuff” and prioritise life’