Kamakura and the Daibutsu (Great Buddha)

Yesterday's adventure was to Kamakura. It was Shari's birthday (Happy Birthday Shari!!!) so we celebrated her 29th (wink, wink) in one of the coolest places we've ever been. Kamakura is located just a few train stops from Yokosuka to the North West and the train ride there was easy for a Saturday morning, with a few tourists getting on along the way. We decided to take a smaller local train across town to get closer to the Daibutsu and a few Buddhist temples. Apperently, we weren't the only ones trying this tactic! We knew we were in for an experience when the train pulled up and there were people jammed into this thing. We, being new here, were somewhat tentative and polite as we entered, which resulted in people jumping in front of us. I was the last guy in and I felt one of the train attendants pushing me in so the doors could be shut! At first it was a little 'different' but then you soon realize this is just the way it is done. Katie was a little freaked out and couldn't see anything. Poor kid! We know now to get on quicker and try to get to a window or at least away from the door!





Once in town, we made our way to the Great Buddha and paid our entrance fee. Right when you walk in was a place to wash you hands. We were told that the idea is to cleanse yourself before coming and paying your respects to the Diabutsu. The kids' thought it was cool...






Next was the Diabutsu, or Great Buddha. He is huge and stands about 35 feet tall and weighs in at over 21 tons. He is made of bronze and for the incredibly low price of 20Y (about 20 cents) you can go inside. We had heard that it stunk in side the Buddha, but we didn't think so but it was very hot. It was awesome here and a must stop for visitors to Japan.






Lastly, here is Katie and Alex trying to imitate the Great Buddha. We couldn't get Devon to do it...





After the Diabutsu, we headed towards the Hasedera Temple. This one also had an entrance fee and another cleansing station. I got a better video of this one...

The temple was amazing with several areas of worship or Buddhist rituals. Some places were off limits to cameras, including the Yakuyoke Amida Buddha statue which is a shrine commissioned by the first Japanese shogun, Yorimoto, in 1194. It is about 10 feet tall and is the Protector from Evil Spirits. When we pictured Japanese Buddhist Temples, this is what we pictured. Yes, Katie likes her picture taken...the boys, not so much! They all enjoyed the cave. Inside, you could purchase a mini wooden Budhha for 300Y and place it wherever you want. It is supposed to bring you good fortune. The cave video is a little dark and grainy, but you get the idea! I'll try to post that video later...it's about 5 minutes long!

That was our day! Of course there we stops along the way in little shops, a giant bus that moved down the crowded street we were on, and vanilla/sweet potato swirl ice cream cones (yum...you just gotta try it. We thought "gross!" at first too).

Love to all!!!

Ramen!

OK, so the kids couldn't wait to try Ramen so we ventured out and found a great little place ride outside the Navy base. We were worried that they wouldn't be willing to try some non-American food, but they LOVED it! Take a look at what Alex got...and he's our picky one! Thank goodness for pictures! You basically point to the meal you want and they bring it to you. They also bring them out as they are ready instead of bringing everyone's order out together. Since Shari's came out first Katie couldn't stop eating it! They all agreed it was the best restaurant ever!

Konichiwa!

The last few days have been very interesting and exciting. This week Shari and I are attending the Area Orientation/Intercultural Relations class. Parts of it are the standard briefs I always get when reporting to a new base/command, but the ICR portion is all about living and enjoying the country. Much of the class is on basic survival and local customs, so it is fun. Today was the "practical" portion of the class where we were guided around downtown Yokosuka. If you come to church with us, this is where we will go... :)



Right off the base is Mikasa Park where a Japanese Battleship, built by Great Britain in the 1800's is parked. There are many areas like this around Yokosuka and areas in Japan we have been too so far. Mikasa park is also an evacuation area for the local public where they have a giant fresh water tank that looks like a Train, holding enough fresh water for 10,000 people for 3 days. It is also a nice park for photo shoots, apparently...





After the park and downtown area, we boarded a train and traveled about 15-20 minutes to Kamakura, Japan's capital from 1185 until 1333. There are many Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples. Our tour for today did not go through any of these, so we will be going again in the next few days with the kids. We did get to do a little shopping and eat some amazing Ramen. Speaking of Ramen, it is a big deal over here! For Americans, Ramen would bring memories of Top Ramen or Cup O' Noodles as a kid. The same thought that comes to our minds when we heard of it. There are many restaurants in Japan that specialize in Ramen and it is delicious! Alex, our Top Ramen lover, can't wait to go. They also love Hello Kitty. We liked the shirt that said I Love KT! since that is what we use for shorthand for Katie's name...



The trains are the main way to get around. We did discover that there are luxury cars. They cost an extra 1000Y (about $10) to ride in and are nice and comfy. We didn't intend to ride in this but we stepped into the wrong car and just kind of rolled with it... :)

Another 20 minutes on the train from Kamakura is Yokohama, 2nd largest city in Japan. The train station opened into a shopping mall, where we stayed and looked around for about an hour. We got to sample some corn and peppers on a stick and see some interesting food items. Of course, lots and lots of Sushi...just tough to tell what's in it! It all seems very fresh...like it was prepared that morning and probably alive a few hours earlier!

After Yokohama, we headed back to Yokosuka unaided. As part of the exercise, Shari and I had to navigate back to the base on our own. This wasn't too difficult, but warranted a treat and a a Diet Pepsi for Shari.. Unfortunately for her, they can't be found off base...so she switches to Pepsi "Nex" which is their zero cal version. She was so happy when she found a 'big one'. There was also a nice little desert shop we couldn't pass up...

What a day and such a great experience. We are having a great time and absolutely love it here! The people are sooooo polite and kind. I can see why people who have lived here loved it here. We certainly do! Lastly, I have to show you the car we were given yesterday. Tom and his family, after living here for 7 years, are moving to Germany and gave us this one and sold us there van for $1000. Not bad, huh?!? Two cars for $1000! I'm dying to try to lift it up...maybe tomorrow!

Love to all!

We've arrived in Japan! The flight was extremely long...11 hours...then a 2 hour drive from Yakota Air Base to Yokosuka Naval Station. We are living in two adjoining rooms here at the Naval Lodge (Navy Hotel) until a house comes available. We are expecting a very long wait, but we may get lucky!



Little things become interesting here...take the vending machines, for example. Devon went out to get his Mom a diet Pepsi and returned with Yen (he exchanged it at the hotel desk) and this little Pepsi Max. He was very proud of himself.



I also added a "Japan Time" widget for my Mom (and anyone else) so she can call us with the confidence that it is not 2:00 AM!