The Pilgrimage Part VIII

I left my bike at the foot of  the mountain and hiked up to Temple 60, which was

at an elevation of 700 meters.

Corporate Buddhism

Temple 61, at the base of the mountain, is architecturally the most

unique on the pilgrimage, and has attracted considerable controversy.

The three-story, ferroconcrete structure looks more like IBM headquarters

than a temple.

The Altar

Inside, the temple is very traditional.

Answered Prayers

Dinner at the Temple

Several of the temples provide accommodations and meals for the

pilgrims at a reasonable price. The priest here is giving the guests

a free lecture on Buddhism with their meal.

Japanese Inn

I often stayed in Japanese inns along the way. This room includes

the ubiquitous television, the very thing I was trying to escape.

Breakfast

A typical breakfast included fish, seaweed, a raw egg and rice.

There wasn't a cornflake in sight.

Straw Sandals

Straw sandals are a symbol of the pilgrimage. Giant replicas are

seen at this temple gate.

Temple Buildings

This is a tahoto which houses sacred Buddhist images.

Temple Gate

Entrance to the temples is guarded by two devils. Before going in

each person is expected to bow and request permission of the guards.

Welcome

A warmly dressed stone image provides a more cordial welcome

inside this temple.