--PILGRIMAGE PICTURE OF THE MONTH--

Gratitude

Click to enlarge

Taken by Tom Ward (Tōkyō) at one of the temples on the henro trail. Obviously the Daishidō, this gives all a good idea of what to expect when you get to the trail. The incense burner is right in the middle in front. Behind that, right up against the front of the temple, is a silver metal box, into which you drop you osamefuda, your name slip. The candle stand is to the left of the door, just over the left shoulder of the henro on the left. To the right you can see several bundles of folded paper cranes, dropped off by someone in serious need of help with some problem that only The Daishi can help, apparently. In front of all are two henro, heads bowed and chanting the Heart Sutra. The henro season is here once again. For all those going over, enjoy your walk and tell everyone you meet that i say hello. I wish i was going with you. For those of you still planning, gambatte (do your best). For those that have already been there, send me your pictures.