Unveiling the Cost and Cultural Weight of Japan’s Shrine Rebuilding Ritual

Every 20 years, Japan undertakes an extraordinary cultural ritual: completely dismantling and reconstructing the revered Ise Jingu shrine, a practice that has persisted for over 1,300 years. While this ancient tradition demonstrates a deep commitment to heritage and craftsmanship, it also demands massive resources—both financial and human—that prompt reflection on national priorities in an era where America must safeguard its own sovereignty and economic vitality. Is Such an Expensive Tradition Sustainable or a Symbol of Excess? The process known as Shikinen Sengu involves harvesting over 10,000 cypress trees, meticulous ceremonies spanning more than 30 events, and the employment of skilled...