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Published: September 26th 2005
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Nishihonganji
A very nice temple, great history, and still in use today (not just a tourist attraction). I dig the Shinsengumi connection too, of course. Whoo, it's been a while since I've written! I've been busy, in a good way, and this is the first time I've really sat down and made time to write.
Okay, let's see... last Saturday? I think it was, Jim and I headed off to Kyoto once more, this time without a map or guidebook. Our goal was to find his hotel for during break, which we did quickly, and then just explore. So, wandering around the Gojo - Kujo section of the city, we discovered Nishihonganji, the other temple where the Shinsengumi were based. Also the head temple of the Pure Land sect of Buddhism and still very active today. It was quite awesome. We then headed off again, found a nice park/garden, and eventually ended up at Toji. It's the home of the tallest pagoda in Japan. It was founded by Kukai (?) and is affiliated with Shingon Buddhism. We took a gajillion pictures there. We then walked all the way to Kujo, found nothing, and headed back. Stopped to eat at a small okonomiyaki restaurant, which was cool because Jim had never had okonomiyaki before. We then trekked back to Shichijo station and came home. Lotsa walking
Toji Pagoda
Totally captivating, Jim compared it to seeing Fujisan the first time. I took about 50 pictures of it. that day.
The next day we (Jim, Greg, Greg's girlfriend and myself) headed to Nara to go to Todaiji and see the daibutsu. The train ride was interesting, since we had to change to Kintetsu line from Keihan Tambabashi. It went smoothly though, and the ride is nicely scenic. Once we got there, we quickly headed to Koufukuji, which is a big temple, took some pics, and checked out the museum. They have the biggest, most beautiful Kannon statue I've ever seen. No pics allowed, so I bought a postcard. ^__^ Then we headed toward Todaiji. Along the way, we were introduced to the Nara deer, which are the cutest things on the planet, but a little cheeky if you don't have food to give them. I petted a few and watched one chase a lady who didn't have food. It bit her hip. >_< I then stopped at a souvenir shop (that took credit cards!) and bought two kokeshi, one for me and one to give away as a present, and a deer keychain for my sister.
Todaiji loomed ahead, so on we pressed. It's the largest wooden building in the world, and the daibutsu is the
Sunset at Toji
Um, it's moments like this that make you realize you're in a truly amazing place, doing amazing things, and to never take it for granted. largest bronze Buddha in the world, so I was ready to be impressed. I'm glad to say I wasn't disappointed. It was truly one of the most amazing sights I've ever seen. Jim and I, both being Buddhist, were somewhat overwhelmed and stood with tears in our eyes for quite a while. They also have some gorgeous bodhisattva statues, including another awesome Kannon. Greg and the girlfriend managed to squeeze through the famous pillar hole, ensuring themselves enlightenment (although how many lifetimes it might take is debateable). I was really sorry to leave Todaiji, but I got some great pics.
Next: lunch time. We had curry noodles (soba and udon) at a nice little place that wasn't too expensive for a tourist spot. Greg and the girlfriend left to go home, complaining about being tired, and it was sadly good riddance, because they were far too cuddly and disgusting for either my or Jim's tastes. Able to move at a quicker pace, we trekked to Kasuga Shrine, a quite nice Shinto shrine up on a hill in the woods. As we walked back, the sun began to set through the trees, and the forest glowed quite creepily. I loved
Koufukuji
At Nara, a very nice temple with an impressive museum housing several National Treasures. it. Coupled with all the tiny shrines and lanterns scattered about, I felt as though I'd been tossed back in time (or maybe into a video game). Awesome.
On our way back to the station, we found a pavillion in the middle of a large pond that was very pretty, some nice torii, a festival, and Starbucks. We then headed home, but got on the wrong train and had to pay extra because it was the fancy train. Whatever. It was a great day, but I was exhausted by the end.
Monday I think I rested. Oh, and I went with Levi, who got a tattoo! ^__^
Tuesday thru Thursday I had class. Whee. Oh, but on Wednesday I headed to Tsutaya and bought the new hide DVD and Amano Tsukiko's new album. woot!
Thursday night... I had dinner with Levi and Daisuke, then Levi and I went bowling and played Taiko DrumMaster. ^__^ My Taiko skills more than made up for the lousy game I bowled. Friday we went with Beck to Shinsaibashi to shop and check out all the hip people there. I didn't buy anything but the new CURE magazine, which featured Vidoll.
The Nara Deer
Aren't they cute? >_< I think they could eat small children, though. It came with a free poster and trading card: I got Rame on my card. ^__^ Saturday I went to Kyoto for an indies punk show at Kyoto MUSE, which was very cool and kinda wild. I got adopted by a group of Japanese schoolgirls who felt bad I'd come alone. I then headed home, stopping at Lawson's to buy... my VIDOLL TICKET!! I'm so excited; November 3rd can't get here fast enough! I guess the Kra et al concert will tide me over, though.
Yesterday I cleaned, studied a little, bought some groceries, and had dinner with Zach, Levi, Daisuke, and Ayako. And read some more of Genji Monogatari. I *heart* Heian Japan.
That should just about cover everything. I think. *sweatdrop* If not, I'll write again later!
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Karen957
Karen Repine
Tears
Don't ask me why but ..I looked at the pictures...read your words and my eyes filled with tears at all that you're experiencing. Live as much of it as you can....every single day. Not just for you but for me too. Please!