Foto: The 55meter high pagoda of the Toji temple (bron: Ronald van der Veer)
Japan - The Toji Temple is one of the oldest temples in Kyoto and, at 55 meters high, it boasts the tallest pagoda in Japan. The pagoda is the symbol of the city of Kyoto. Unfortunately, we can’t view the pagoda from the inside. It is only open during special events, as it houses relics of the Buddha. In the Kondo (Main Hall) and the Kodo (lecture hall/library), there are magnificent large Buddha statues. Through the temple garden, I return to my bicycle. We ride northward to the other side of the city. It's quite a ride. Traffic is noticeably considerate toward cyclists—or perhaps more toward tourists on bikes. As long as we stay on the main busy roads, the route goes smoothly, but as soon as we venture into the narrow streets, we quickly lose our way. Still, riding between old wooden houses is far more enjoyable. Fortunately, everyone manages to find the Kinkaku-ji Temple. After asking for directions three times, we finally arrive. A security guard immediately points out where we must park our bikes. Just leaving your bike anywhere is not done in Japan. The Kinkaku-ji Temple, officially called Rokuon-ji Temple, is particularly famous for its Golden Pavilion. Hundreds of other, mostly Japanese tourists also know this. Today is the first day of the Buddhist Obon Festival. During this three-day Obon festival, ancestors are honored. It is not officially a national holiday, but practically all Japanese take three days off. Along with a crowd of tourists, I enter the temple grounds. The Golden Pavilion is situated on the far side of the pond. The pavilion dates back to the late 14th century. Its golden roof is reflected in the gently rippling water. A beautiful sight. Perhaps even more amusing is watching everyone contorting themselves to get a picture with the temple. The rest of the gardens, ponds, and temples largely escape visitors' attention. Mine too. It’s very hot, and I go looking for something to drink. Vending machines are everywhere—a convenient way to get rid of some coins.
Buddhist Sensoji Temple
Japan - We leave the park to have a beer at its edge. It’s warm again today. There are a few light clouds. Rain is predicted during the night, which might bring some cooling. For now, we seek some relief along the Sumida River. The Senso-ji Temple is located ...
Ginza and Shibuya district in Tokyo
Japan - This afternoon, everyone does their own thing. I enjoy walking through the city alone for a while. Just some quiet around me. I walk from the bustle of Ginza toward the south. It’s obvious how well-organized everything in Japan is. At construction sites, ...
Himeji Castle
Japan - We drive to Himeji via the toll road. Himeji is home to the largest surviving feudal castle. The castle tower is especially impressive. From the outside it appears to have five floors, but inside there are six levels. This was intended to mislead attackers. ...
The center of Osaka
Japan - After just half an hour, the train pulls into Osaka station. My hostel is within walking distance, but I can’t get my bearings to figure out which direction to go. A kind lady at the information desk draws it out for me on a map. Hostel HIVE is located ...
The Itsukushima Shrine near Hatsukaichi
Japan - The heat and lack of sleep are taking their toll. I go in search of a toilet. Again, there are girls who want to practice their English. Fortunately, they’re also happy to show me where the toilet is. On the way, they ask me a few questions. I don’t ...
The Memorial Park in Hiroshima
Japan - At half past five, we leave Hotel Quel. After some deliberation, we decided to just drive into Hiroshima by car. The alternative of taking a train seemed difficult to manage at such an early hour—especially when you're unsure where to go or where to ...