Wow, what a day. Today we got a big taste of Japanese culture, in the form of visits to many temples or shrines. The temples we visited today were in the city of Kamakura, home to 33 temples in total (many in the city).
It is very funny that at almost any place in the temple there is something for sale. It is very funny to always be able to look left or right and see something available for 400 yen. Every little shrine has a donation box, and giving involves a complex ritual of two bows, two claps, one bow, and a wish. However, at temples, one cannot clap his/her hands, because temples are supposed to be quiet. At every place you need to make a wish, something whatever godly power is enshrined there is supposed to make come true. Also, you are not supposed to step on the doorstep. Taeko told me that it is like stepping on your father's head :o!
At every temple you have the opportunity to wash your hands. This is also a complex ritual. You take this sort of ladle and dip in the water, dousing first your left hand, then your right hand. You then put the ladle under the water flow (usually out of some stone-carved animal's mouth) and pour it into your left hand, after which you drink it. It takes longer to explain that it actually does to do.
The picture at the top is of a very large Buddha, a sculpture that was erected 756 years ago! It was very impressive to see. We also ran into some other friends from the trip there.
Today I was blessed many times. I currently am supposed to be happy eternally, extremely happy right now, cleansed in spirit, wonderful in health (that was from the incense), and devoid of worries. Hopefully the Buddha will bless me.
Atiki masu!
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