The temple grounds were almost empty when I arrived—and right up until the ceremony was about to start. I was confused because not only did I expect more people to come out to the mantoukai (Buddhist lantern ceremony) in remembrance of the March 2011 earthquake and tsunami, but also because entrance that evening to the … Continue reading Photo of the Day: Through the Umbrella
Photo of the Day: Warm Glow
Daikon (Japanese radishes) on lanterns—is there anything better? Another photo nicked from our Facebook page, it was taken at Hokai-ji last summer. I love the lanterns so much, I had to re-post. Hokai-ji is famous for its bush clover. It wasn't in bloom when we visited, but the vegetation had pretty much taken over one … Continue reading Photo of the Day: Warm Glow
Photo of the Day: Historical Cosplayers
Costumed visitors to Kotoku-in pay their respects at the mantoukai held in remembrance of the 2011 earthquake and tsunami. I'm fairly certain this pair is meant to be Yoritomo Minamoto—founder and first shogun of the Kamakura Shogunate, and his consort, Masako Hojo, whose family took on the role of regents of the shogun (and basically … Continue reading Photo of the Day: Historical Cosplayers
Photo of the Day: Full’a Beans
Two words: free samples. This shop is called Mameya, and while it isn't a Kamakura-only shop—it's a country-wide chain—it's one of our favourites on the road between us and the Daibutsu. I enjoy the colours, Kaede enjoys the flavours, which are quite nice.
Photo of the Day: Prepping Remembrance
Kotoku-in, AKA the Daibutsu, has held a special mantoukai (Buddhist lantern ceremony) for the past few years to pray for those affected by the 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami, and to raise funds. Monks from various Buddhist sects gather at Hasedera and walk ever-so-slowly to Kotoku-in, which is lit up with candles that spectators sponsor. … Continue reading Photo of the Day: Prepping Remembrance
Photo of the Day: Watchman
Terrifying, no? This is Nio-sama. At the entrance to many temples, you'll find Nio-sama in the first gate, one on the right and one on the left. Their job is to guard the temple from evil people and things. This Nio-sama keeps watch at Myohon-ji.
Photo of the Day: Red Tide
Looks more pink than red, but red tide it is. Actually, the proper term is harmful algal blooms (HABs). They make seafood temporarily inedible, and probably aren't so good to play in for humans, either. But, it didn't really stop anyone from splashing around. HABs happen every year, but not too often. They only last … Continue reading Photo of the Day: Red Tide
Photo of the Day: Mt. Fuji… Again
Like the Daibutsu, Mt. Fuji is probably going to make more than just a few appearances. It's just so... there. This photo was taken at Hiroyama Park in Zushi. It's one of Kaede's favourite places to play as in addition to a playground, it has some animals. From spring to fall, kids also try their … Continue reading Photo of the Day: Mt. Fuji… Again
Photo of the Day: All that Glitters
Komyo-ji is one blinged out temple–and, unlike most blinged out temples, you can actually get up close and personal with the bling. This makes it a fantastic temple to visit, even if it is a little off the beaten track.
Photo of the Day: Na no Hana
Continuing the "spring has sprung" theme, here's another pic of Japanese spring. These bright yellow flowers are called na no hana (rape blossoms/field mustard) and they're more than just eye candy—they're food. The stems are blanched and then drained and seasoned. This photo is of a huge field of na no hana growing on a … Continue reading Photo of the Day: Na no Hana
女性専用 - Inn By The Sea Kamakura - Women's Guesthouse 