Confucian temple in Tokyo

Yushima-seido was commissioned by the fifth shogun, Tokugawa Tsunayoshi in 1690 after having been a school for Confucian studies since 1630.

"Confucianism stresses the improvability of people through endeavor. This philosophical import from mainland China has profoundly influenced the thinking, attitudes and morals of the Japanese, making Yushima Seido a very important historical institution."
(From http://www.japanvisitor.com/japan-temples-shrines/yushima-seido#ixzz3g8c5ls00)

Sadly, this importance is not widely recognized in Japan, so few people show their love to this place other than students praying for success in school and on entrance examinations.

We were meeting someone there who turned out to be a little late, so as we waited, Chiny swept up stray leaves:

While Frank held up a tree:

We met our guide and were given a tour of the complex.

Nyutoku Gate, the only wooden structure 

Kodansha Gate, referring to the school where Confucius taught 

Taisei-den, the main shrine

Water spouting dragons on the roof, to prevent fire. The main shrine burnt down after the Great Kanto Earthquake in 1923.

Water spouting dragons might keep fire away, but it doesn't scare away birds

More rooftop decorations

Inside the main shrine. The tables are set up for a festival. That's Confucius in the center.

One of the four sages, though I forgot to note which one (Yan Hui, Zengzi, Zisi or Mencius)

No idea what this is but it caught my eye.

A really simple, but interesting way to teach about gravity, among other things.

Bronze statue of Confucius standing 4.57 meters high, the largest Confucius bronze statue in the world. This one is courtesy of Taiwan. 

After the tour we moved inside to further discuss Confucianism and Neo-Confucianism. The discussion was interesting and I think when I get back this is a philosophy I would like to read about further.