Temple 60: Yokomineji

To get to the next temple get on your hiking shoes and prepare your heart and mind for the path ahead. Yokomineji is called “Summit on the Side of the Peak” temple and that is no lie. The temple is 2,340 feet above sea level. Take a deep breath. Let’s go.

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA — We had a lovely mist to walk through as we made our ascent.

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA — Pilgrims coming down, a very steady stream!

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA — They are heading back the way we just came.

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA — And we are on our way up.

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA — Moss!

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA — A sign pointing us in the right direction.

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA — A very well maintained path here.

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA — Old and rotting gates take another path on the mountain.

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA — Much of the modern ohenro route is carefully taken care of. This part is very smooth sailing.

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA — I love the expressiveness of this face.

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA — An ancient guardian.

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA — And then amidst the hard stones we have blossoms.

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA — Beautiful gate.

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA — Updated and carefully maintained.

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA — My dog will smile like this sometimes.

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA — Ring the bell to announce your arrival.

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA — And pause to look at the tulips.

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA — Offerings given, and sutras read.

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OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA — Serene.

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA — Nicely framed in the mist.

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA — Modern upkeep and new temple buildings among the old.