Sunday, November 27, 2005

Weekend with Akiko

Today Akiko met me at the hotel around 9:30. We took the train to Kamakura (a coastal town about one hour south of Tokyo).

The first sight we visited was the Engakuji. It was founded in 1282. We went up a very tall hill in order to see the temple’s large bell. It is a national treasure. Up on the hillside, we had tea and enjoyed the scenery.

After that, we had lunch at a delicious place where there was a long line. The wait was worth it! We sat near the kitchen so while we ate, we could see the chefs cook.

Then, we visited Kenchoji temple. It is one of the oldest Zen temples of Japan. We were able to go inside one section and view the garden behind the temple. It was amazing!

Next, we saw Tsurugaoka Hachimangu – Kamakura’s most important shrine. At the shine, we were lucky enough to see a wedding!
Finally, we saw the Great Buddha statue. It is bronze and is the second largest Buddha statue in Japan. It was constructed in 1252.

Once we arrived near Akiko’s home, we met her mother at a restaurant were you can BBQ your food in a pit on the table. It was really fun! We ordered a wide variety of meat, but my favorite was tongue – seriously!

Before going to sleep on the futon, I wore a special robe and took a Japanese style bath.

Akiko and her family are wonderful people and I feel fortunate to have been invited to their house.

2 Comments:

At 2:47 PM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

Did you like the food there

 
At 2:48 PM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

Do you like it there in Japan

 

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