Hey folks - thanks so much for following our little journey to Lotusland! These are a few images from our last day there. The above shots were taken at Daitokuji Temple, which is where I was allowed to attend an afternoon zazen meditation. In attendance was me (the lone westerner), about 7 women, 5 men and the resident roshi - who walked in front of us as we meditated, carrying his "encouragement stick" (a stick that is used to thwack you across the shoulders, thus "rousing" you in case you space out during the meditation). This temple features many varied zen gardens which are famous in their ability to recreate the idea of mountains and rivers.We also had last-minute shopping today (unphotographed) mostly at Kyotos' branch of Takashimaya Department Store, which is stupendously large and sits smack in the middle of town. (I love a store that has departments like "Floor 7 - Scrolls, Tea Ceremony Objects, Formal Yukata, Casual Yukata, Kimono"(!)). It was there that Bob was finally able to purchase several of his beloved Domokun dolls. (he'll post about that!).
It's been an amazing and awe-inspiring time. We will definitely be back, especially when you consider that although we visited 12 of Kyotos' temples and shrines, the city easily offers over 70 of them. So we've a little bit left to do......
Sayonara for now!
Jeffrey
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