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!!!