Osaka and Kyoto travelogue - May 2024 - Japan

 

Sathya’s travelogue – Osaka and Kyoto – 2 May 2024 to 6 May 2024

 This week is called as “Golden Week” in Japan. Long holidays.

 We decided to explore the countryside of Japan and decided to go to Kyoto.

 But when I saw Onsen (Natural hot springs) available in Super Hotel, Osaka, I decided to stay in Osaka.

 I will explain the Onsen experience at the end. (Amazing it is)

We embark our journey to Osaka by Shinkansen (our second experience, earlier we went to Hiroshima, in 2023)

 

After checking in, I directly proceeded for Onsen.

"Super Hotel", Osaka is a fantastic hotel, reasonable price, with lots of amenities.

It is a wonderful hotel having natural hot springs at the ground floor. Good staff and centrally located near Awaza metro station.

(Free pantry, free liquor for three hours in the evening, and what not)

 03 May 2024

Osaka

Let's embark on a journey to the **Umeda Sky Building** in Osaka, where modern architecture meets breathtaking views. 🏙️🌟

 ## **"Whispers Among the Clouds"**

 ### ** #Umeda Sky Building: A Vertical Symphony**

We made online booking of entrance tickets, and hence no need to stand in the queue. (Book in advance the love lock awesome souvenir. They print you and your spouse’s name and give in different colors)

 On a crisp morning in early May, I stood before the Umeda Sky Building—a soaring testament to human ingenuity. Its twin towers, connected by the ethereal **Floating Garden Observatory**, beckoned me upward. As I stepped inside, the world below seemed to shrink, and the sky expanded into infinity.

One need to catch the elevator at third floor and proceed to 35 floor. Here you have a beautiful hall and restaurant to relax.

 Now catch the elevator to reach the awesome Kuchu teien observatory. Fantastic engineering marvel.

 ### **Panoramic Views **

 As the elevator doors opened, I gasped. Before me lay a 360-degree canvas—the urban sprawl of Osaka, stretching to the horizon. The Yodo River snaked through the city, bridges connecting its banks like delicate threads. To the west, the Seto Inland Sea shimmered, and beyond it, Awaji Island emerged like a distant dream.

 The observatory's open-air deck invited me to step into the sky. I walked along the glass-floored corridor, feeling the city pulse beneath my feet. At dusk, the ground lit up with phosphorescent stones, creating an otherworldly path. It was as if I walked among the clouds, suspended between earth and sky.

And then, the sun began its descent—a symphony of gold and crimson. The buildings below transformed into silhouettes, and the city lights flickered to life. Couples leaned against the railing, lost in whispered conversations. Families pointed out landmarks, their laughter carried by the wind.

 And so, dear reader, if you find yourself in Osaka, seek out the Umeda Sky Building. Ascend its towers, touch the sky, and listen. For among the clouds, you'll hear echoes of eternity.

 *May 3, 2024, Osaka—the city where architecture and dreams intertwine. * 🌆✨

 4 May 2024

Kyoto

 We booked in advance one day guided tour through “Get your guide” app. cool.

 The weather god was with us, as it was sunny, but not very hot.

 Let's embark on a captivating journey through the ancient streets of Kyoto, where history, spirituality, and natural beauty converge. 🌸

## **"Whispers of the Eternal Path"**

 ### ** #Ginkakuji (Silver Pavilion): A Zen Retreat** Must-see temple. Scenic.

 On a serene morning in early May, I found myself standing before the gates of Ginkakuji, the "Silver Pavilion." Nestled in Kyoto's eastern mountains, this Zen temple exuded an understated elegance. Its story began in 1482 when shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa built his retirement villa on these very grounds, inspired by the Golden Pavilion (Kinkakuji) that graced Kyoto's northern mountains.

The Silver Pavilion, with its two-story structure, stood as a testament to refined aesthetics. Contrary to its name, it was never actually covered in silver. Some say the moniker arose to contrast it with the resplendent Ginkakuji. Others believe moonlight reflecting on its dark lacquered exterior gave it a silvery hue. Regardless, the pavilion held an air of quiet contemplation.

 As I strolled along the circular route, I marveled at the meticulously maintained dry sand garden—the "Sea of Silver Sand." A massive sand cone, aptly named the "Moon Viewing Platform," stood at its heart. Nearby, the Hondo (main hall) displayed exquisite paintings on its sliding doors, but its interior remained off-limits to visitors. Adjacent to the Hondo, the Togudo—a rare survivor from the temple's foundation—showcased the oldest extant example of Shoin architecture.

 ### ** #Fushimi #Inari Taisha: Gates to the Divine**

Famous for a few thousand of torries.

 Leaving #Ginkakuji behind, I ventured south to Fushimi Inari Taisha, a shrine steeped in mysticism. Founded in 711, long before Kyoto became Japan's capital, it stood as a testament to devotion. The path leading up Mt. Inari was adorned with thousands of vibrant orange torii gates, forming a mesmerizing tunnel. Each gate symbolized a passage from the mundane to the sacred.

 As I ascended, stone altars (otsuka) dotted the trail, inviting prayers and offerings. The air hummed with spiritual energy, and the rustling leaves whispered ancient secrets. At the summit, I gazed out over Kyoto—a city cradled by mountains and history. Here, the divine and earthly realms converged, and pilgrims sought blessings for prosperity, safety, and wisdom.

Fushimi Inari Taisha was more than a shrine; it was a portal to another realm. As I descended, I carried its essence—a blend of devotion, hope, and the rustle of countless footsteps—within my heart.

 ### ** #Todaiji Temple: Guardians of Wisdom**

#Amazing #Buddha - Biggest bronze statue in the world.

My final stop was Todaiji Temple, a grand complex that housed the world's largest bronze Buddha statue. Founded in the 8th century, Todaiji stood as a beacon of Buddhist scholarship and enlightenment. Its Daibutsuden (Great Buddha Hall) loomed large, its wooden pillars reaching for the heavens.

Inside, the Great Buddha—Vairocana—sat in serene meditation, his gaze penetrating the veil of existence. Pilgrims circled him, their whispers blending with the scent of incense. The temple's vast precincts held treasures: ancient sutras, sacred relics, and the wisdom of generations.

 As the sun dipped below the horizon, I reflected on my day's journey. Ginkakuji's tranquility, Fushimi Inari's vibrant gates, and Todaiji's solemnity—they wove a tapestry of Kyoto's soul. Each step had whispered, "Seek, learn, and find your own path."

 Do not miss the museum here, which is worth watching.

And so, dear reader, may you too wander these hallowed grounds, where temples and shrines guard the keys to eternity.

*May 4, 2024, Kyoto—the city where earthly beauty meets the divine.* 🌿🏯🌟

 05 May 2024

 Let's embark on a captivating journey through the ancient streets of Kyoto, where history and spirituality intertwine. 🌸

## **"Whispers of the Heavenly Dragon"**

 ## ** #Sanzen Temple: A Hidden Sanctuary**

On a crisp morning in early May, I found myself standing before the venerable gates of Sanzen Temple. The air was infused with the scent of incense, and the temple's wooden structures stood weathered yet dignified. Sanzen Temple, also known as "Sanzen-in," is nestled in the eastern hills of Kyoto, far from the bustling crowds of the city center.

As I stepped inside, the world seemed to hush. The temple grounds unfolded like a secret garden—a symphony of moss-covered stones, ancient pines, and trickling streams. The main hall, with its tatami floors and sliding paper doors, exuded tranquility. Here, monks had meditated for centuries, seeking enlightenment in the quietude of dawn.

But it was the garden that stole my breath away. A pond, perfectly round, mirrored the cerulean sky. Koi fish glided beneath the surface, their scales catching the sunlight. Stone lanterns stood sentinel, their mossy coats hinting at the passage of time. And there, beneath a gnarled pine, I glimpsed a stone statue—an enigmatic figure with eyes half-closed, lost in contemplation.

Legend whispered that Sanzen Temple held a hidden treasure—a sacred sutra inscribed by Kukai, the great Buddhist master. Some claimed that those who deciphered its cryptic verses would attain enlightenment. As I wandered the garden's labyrinthine paths, I wondered if the sutra lay buried beneath the roots of ancient trees or hidden within the ripples of the pond.

 ### ** #Tenryuji Temple: Where Dragons Soar**

 Leaving Sanzen behind, I followed the winding path westward, toward the famed Arashiyama district. There, amidst bamboo groves and cherry blossoms, stood Tenryuji Temple—the "Temple of the Heavenly Dragon." Its name echoed with mystery, and I yearned to unravel its secrets.

 Tenryuji's history was as rich as the gold leaf adorning its eaves. Founded in 1339 by the shogun Ashikaga Takauji, it honored Emperor Go-Daigo, who had recently passed away. The temple's name derived from a dream—a priest friend of the emperor saw a dragon rise from a nearby river, ascending toward the heavens. Thus, Tenryuji became a sanctuary where earthly and celestial forces converged.

 The temple's Kuri building, with its distinctive small tower, housed treasures and relics. But it was the garden that held true magic. Designed by Muso Soseki, a Master of Landscape Architecture, it defied time. A central pond mirrored the mountains, and rocks symbolized islands in an ethereal sea. Pine trees leaned toward enlightenment, their branches whispering ancient sutras.

 As I sat on a wooden bench, gazing at the ripples on the water, I wondered if the dragon still lingered here. Perhaps it soared above the Arashiyama hills, guarding the temple's wisdom. Or perhaps it slumbered, waiting for a seeker to decipher its celestial message.

And so, dear reader, as the sun dipped below the horizon, I left Tenryuji with a heart full of wonder. The whispers of dragons and the echoes of sutras lingered, promising that enlightenment was not a distant dream but a reflection in still waters.

*May 5, 2024, Kyoto—where legends intertwine with reality, and temples cradle the souls of emperors and dragons alike.* 🌿🐉

 #Shinkansen (The bullet train)

 Let's delve into the fascinating history of the **Shinkansen**, commonly known as the **bullet train**, and then I'll share what it's like to travel on this iconic high-speed rail network in Japan.

 

## **The Shinkansen: A Journey Through Time**

 ### **Origins and Inception**

 The Shinkansen, which translates to "new trunk line" or "new main line" in Japanese, was born out of necessity and vision. Here's a glimpse into its remarkable history:

 1. *Pre-Shinkansen Era (1930s)**:

   - Japan began building railways during the Meiji Period, and they opted for a narrow gauge (the distance between rails) rather than the standard gauge.

   - However, the idea of high-speed rail remained dormant until later years.

 2. **1964: Birth of the Bullet Train**:

   - On October 1, 1964, the first Shinkansen line, known as the **Tokaido Shinkansen**, commenced commercial service between Tokyo and Osaka.

   - This groundbreaking event coincided with the Tokyo Olympics, marking a new era in rail travel.

 3. **Technological Marvel**:

   - The original Tokaido Shinkansen connected Tokyo, Nagoya, and Osaka—three of Japan's largest cities.

   - It was one of the world's busiest high-speed rail lines, carrying millions of passengers annually.

 4. **Expansion and Evolution**:

   - Over the years, the Shinkansen network expanded to link major cities across Honshu and Kyushu islands.

   - The trains themselves evolved, incorporating cutting-edge technology and design.

 5. **Speed and Efficiency**:

   - The Shinkansen is renowned for its punctuality, safety, and comfort.

   - Maximum speeds range from 260 to 320 km/h (160 to 200 mph), making it one of the fastest rail systems globally.

 ## **The Shinkansen Travel Experience**

 Now, let's step aboard the bullet train and experience the journey firsthand:

 1. **Efficiency and Punctuality**:

   - Shinkansen trains run like clockwork. Departures and arrivals adhere to precise schedules.

   - You'll rarely encounter delays, ensuring a stress-free travel experience.

 2. **Comfort and Amenities**:

   - The spacious seats provide ample legroom, and the interiors are clean and well-maintained.

   - Passengers can enjoy onboard services, including food and beverages.

 3. **Scenic Views**:

   - As you glide through the Japanese countryside, admire picturesque landscapes—rolling hills, rice paddies, and glimpses of Mount Fuji.

   - The large windows offer unobstructed views, especially in the Green Car (first-class) compartments.

 4. **Silent Speed**:

   - Despite the incredible velocity, the Shinkansen operates quietly. You'll hardly notice the train's movement.

   - It's an ideal environment for reading, working, or simply relaxing.

 5. **Bento Boxes and Ekiben**:

   - Don't miss the opportunity to savor a bento box or ekiben (regional specialty lunchbox) during your journey.

   - Each station offers unique culinary delights.

 6. **Seamless Transfers**:

   - The Shinkansen connects seamlessly with local trains and subways.

   - You can explore cities like Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Sendai without hassle.

 7. **Japan Rail Pass Advantage**:

   - If you have a **Japan Rail Pass**, you can travel on the Shinkansen for free (except for the Nozomi and Mizuho trains).

   - It's a cost-effective way to explore Japan's diverse regions.

 In summary, riding the Shinkansen is not just a mode of transportation; it's an experience—a blend of speed, efficiency, and awe-inspiring vistas. So, next time you're in Japan, hop aboard the bullet train and let it whisk you away on an unforgettable journey! 🚄🌸

 

Quick look at #Hinduism, #Buddhism, #Zen, and #Shintoism

Let's explore the fascinating world of **Buddhism**, **Zen**, and **Shintoism**, tracing their origins, evolution, connections to India, and similarities with **Hinduism**.

 ## **Buddhism**

 ### **Origins and Evolution**

 - **Origin**: Buddhism originated in India around 2,800 years ago. It emerged from the teachings of **Siddhartha Gautama**, later known as the **Buddha**.

- **Key Concepts**:

    - **Karma**: The law of cause and effect.

    - **Samsara**: The cycle of birth, death, and rebirth.

    - **Moksha**: Liberation from this cycle.

- **India Connection**: Siddhartha Gautama was born into a Hindu family in the Shakya clan. His teachings reflected fundamental concepts inherited from Hinduism.

- **Similarities with Hinduism**:

    - **Meditation**: Both Hinduism and Buddhism emphasize meditation for spiritual insight.

    - **Nature Worship**: Hinduism reveres natural elements, and Shinto also places significant emphasis on nature worship.

    - **No Single Founder or Text**: Like Hinduism, Buddhism lacks a single founder or centralized scripture.

## **Zen**

### **Origins and Evolution**

 - **Origin**: Zen, also known as **Chan Buddhism** in China, originated in India as a branch of **Mahayana Buddhism**. It later evolved into Chan and spread to Japan, where it became known as Zen.

- **Key Aspects**:

    - **Direct Experience**: Zen emphasizes direct experience and meditation (Satori or Kensho) for enlightenment.

    - **Emptiness (Sunyata)**: Transcending conceptual thinking to attain insight.

- **India Connection**: Zen's roots trace back to India, but its development occurred primarily in China and Japan.

- **Similarities with Hinduism**:

    - **Meditation Practices**: Zen's renowned meditation practices (such as Zazen) align with Hinduism's focus on self-realization.

    - **Teaching Methods**: Zen masters use cryptic teaching methods, similar to the guru-disciple tradition in Hinduism.

 ## **Shintoism**

 ### **Origins and Evolution**

 - **Origin**: Shinto is the indigenous spirituality of Japan. It involves the worship of various **kami** (gods, spirits, or ancestors).

- **Key Aspects**:

    - **Nature Worship**: Shinto places significant emphasis on nature worship, often associated with natural elements.

    - **Shrines and Rituals**: Shinto ceremonies involve purification rituals, offerings, and prayers at shrines.

- **India Connection**: Shinto developed independently in Japan and has no direct connection to India.

- **Similarities with Hinduism**:

    - **Polytheism and Pantheon**: Both Hinduism and Shinto embrace a polytheistic worldview.

    - **Cultural Integration**: Shinto deeply influences Japanese culture, similar to Hinduism's impact on Indian culture.

 

In summary, while these traditions have distinct origins and approaches, they all offer paths to spiritual realization through meditation, mindfulness, and direct experience. Each resonates differently with individuals based on their personal spiritual journey and inclinations¹⁸. 🌟🕉️🌸

#Goshuin

Dating back as early as around 1300 years ago, the practice of goshuin is thought to have originated as proof of one’s devotion. Pilgrims would handwrite shakyo (Buddhist sutras) and dedicate them to Buddhist temples, and in exchange, receive a goshuin from the temple’s nuns and monks.

In modern times, the practice of collecting goshuin has changed slightly. Rather than copying and devoting sutras, visitors can pay a fee (usually ranging from ¥300 to ¥1000) or make a donation to a temple or shrine to receive a goshuin. Members of the younger generation have also been taking up collecting unique goshuin as a hobby, with many taking to social media to show off cute, seasonal or remarkably aesthetic goshuin from rarely-visited temples and shrines.

Most goshuin are stamped on the pages of a book. These books, officially known as goshuincho (御朱印帳), serve as a kind of record or proof of faith. It houses evidence of one’s pilgrimages to various shrines and temples during their lifetime. These books are still used by goshuin collectors today, though they probably hold less spiritual significance to their users.

You’ve got your goshuincho, now let’s go get it stamped! Once you’ve walked into the temple or shrine, look for the reception area. This is typically where you’ll see keychains, omamori and other services being sold. Near or in that building, you’ll find one of the following signs written in kanji: Goshuinjo (御朱印所), Shuinjo (朱印所), or Noukyoujo (納経所) at temples, and Goshuinjo (御朱印所), Juyojo (授与所), or Shamusho (社務所) at shrines.

Just go there and handover the note book, and pay the money. Some shrines have more than one goshuin. Either you may select anyone or pay for all and get the goshuin stamped in the book.

Remember, you are not supposed to either take photo or video during this process.

I have obtained more than 20 goshuin till now this year, which I keep as a treasure.

 Example of a Goshuin

  

Now you’ve finally got your first goshuin but… you’re not sure how to make heads or tails of it. Let’s run through the basic structure of a typical goshuin, using this example from Fukuoka’s Kushida-jinja.

 

1. Largest red stamp, placed in the center of the page

The largest red stamp contains the name of the shrine or temple. In this case, the kanji ‘櫛田神社’ is stamped, which translates to Kushida-jinja, the name of the shrine.

 2. Smaller red stamp(s)

The smaller red stamp(s) symbolize the shrine or temple’s deity. In the photo above, the three hexagons represent Hakata’s three patron Gods, Amaterasu Omikami, Ohatanushi no Omikami, and Susano no Omikami, that the Kushida-jinja is dedicated to.

 3. Main calligraphy in the center of the page

a. Largest calligraphy

The largest calligraphy writes out the name of the shrine or temple in Kanji, in this case ‘櫛田神社’ for Kushida-jinja.

 b. Smaller calligraphy written to the sides of the largest calligraphy

In some cases, shrine or temple names may be longer than three to six characters. In this case, the kanji is split up, with the ‘main’ shrine or temple name written in a larger calligraphy, while the trailing or following kanji are written in a smaller size to either sides (or sometimes both) of the larger calligraphy. In the above example, the full name of the temple is ‘博多総鎮守櫛田神社’ (Hakata Souchinju Kushida-jinja) so ‘博多総鎮守’ (Hakata Souchinju) is written on the right side of the larger calligraphy.

 4. Calligraphy to the left side of the page

This kanji represents the date of your visit to the shrine or temple. The format used is year xx of the xx era, xx month, xx day (xx xx年、xx月、xx日). In the photo above, 平成二十五年、七月、三十一日 is written, which translates to July 31st of year 25 of the Heisei era, i.e. 31 July 2013.

 5. Calligraphy to the right side of the page

To the right you'll find the words ‘崇拝’ (すうはい, suuhai), ‘奉拝’ (ほうはい, houhai), ‘参拝’ (さんぱい, sanpai) or ‘遥拝’ (ようはい, youhai), meaning worship, adore, revere, etc.

 

#Onsen (Natural hot springs)

Onsen, or Japanese hot springs, offer more than just relaxation; they're deeply rooted in Japanese culture and tradition. Here are **six health benefits** of soaking in an onsen:

1. **Improves Blood Circulation**: The heat in an onsen dilates blood vessels, enhancing circulation. Soaking in an onsen with a temperature of at least 38°C can lead to relaxed and expanded arteries.

2. **Relieves Pain and Sore Muscles**: Onsen baths can alleviate body pains and sore muscles. The warm water helps relax tight muscles and reduces inflammation and pain.

3. **Reduces Stress**: The soothing effect of onsen water helps reduce stress and promotes mental well-being.

4. **Better Sleep**: A relaxing soak in an onsen can improve sleep quality by calming the mind and body.

5. **Restores and Cures**: Onsen minerals have healing properties. They can soothe and heal the skin, making it feel softer. Additionally, the hot water helps restore overall wellness.

6. **Boosts Metabolism**: Regular onsen baths can enhance metabolism, contributing to better overall health.

So, next time you visit Japan, don't miss the chance to experience the rejuvenating benefits of an onsen! 🌿🛁