• Susan WaglandJapan 88 Temples PilgrimageTraveler
    Jizo in forest
    Jizo in forestSteep climbView of Naka river from half wayTemple 20Japanese pilgrim MiyakoScary bridgeTemple 21 and motorbikesJizosTrying to ring the big bellTemple 21 scene"Ropeway" is one way down from T21Buddhas line the path to T22Roped pathTemple 22, afternoon lightTemple guardiansA service was under wayTemple 22 main hall2One stone per bird

    Temples 20-22, Aratano

    October 13, 2025 in Japan ⋅ 🌙 25 °C

    A very nice day. Temples 20 and 21 are on the top of mountains, and required a lot of climbing. I love steep narrow mountain tracks beside ravines. Then, once you're at the temple, there are lots of steps to the halls. All these temples were really beautiful.

    At Temple 21, two ladies asked me to help ring the big bell, so I did, and while it resounded, one of them blew into a conch shell three times. Super loud! There was much laughter. Then the younger lady and I stood with our backs to the conch lady. She blew it again and I felt the sound vibrating in my back, which was weird.

    Today is a public holiday in Japan - Sports Day - so the temples were busy.    Read more