Bamboo looks just as good in black and white as it does in vibrant greens. Just another snap from Hokoku-ji, the bamboo temple.
Photo of the Day: Fortunes for Sale
Omikuji (fortunes) left at a temple (or shrine—I can't quite remember where this is). I've only ever bought one omikuji, and it was a pretty good one. Not all are good, though—some predict pretty rough patches ahead.
Photo of the Day: Painted Panel
When you visit temples and shrines, be sure to look up. Guaranteed you'll be rewarded with beautiful carvings, and sometimes, you'll get a pretty paint job, too. This panel is from Komyo-ji, which you can read a tiny bit more about here.
Photo of the Day: A Frog’s Life
This fellow had his photo taken during our first snowfall of the year, January 1st. He lives just up the hill from us at Joju-in (Joju Temple), famous for its hydrangeas in June and July. Joju-in sits at the top of a hill, and is accessible by stairway from both the top and bottom of … Continue reading Photo of the Day: A Frog’s Life
Photo a Day: Komyo-ji
Komyo-ji is just shy of two kilometers from Kamakura Station. The distance means that it's off the beaten track and a little quieter than some of the better known temples. Don't let the distance discourage you, though, as it's worth the hike out - unlike many of the other temples and shrines, visitors can actually … Continue reading Photo a Day: Komyo-ji
Fall in Kamakura: Hokoku-ji
Also known as Take-dera, meaning bamboo temple, Hokoku-ji was founded in 1334. It’s a bit of a hike from Kamakura station, but if you love bamboo groves, it’s a must. The main grounds are open for free wandering, but entrance to the bamboo grove requires payment of a small fee, as does a ticket for … Continue reading Fall in Kamakura: Hokoku-ji