During my winter
vacation, I was lucky enough to stay at a Buddhist temple high in the mountains
in Fukui. The temple is called Eiheiji temple and there are one hundred and
fifty monks practicing Buddhism in the temple. The temple is over eight hundred
years old and surrounded by a stunning waterfall and picturesque bridge. Tall
five-hundred year old cedar trees keep watch over the temple and the moss
covered landscape.
I
stayed for one night and trained in the zazen meditation technique which
involved a number of forty minute meditation sessions. This was difficult as my
legs became numb from being folded and I found myself drifting off in my own
thoughts. The monk informed me that if we lacked concentration during zazen, we
would receive a hit with a stick to the shoulder, not as punishment but as
encouragement. I found myself with pursed lips and a concentrated face staring at
the wall, terrified of the monk with the stick! But luckily, I made it through
without being hit and found that the more zazen sessions I
2020年1月10日金曜日
東京で過ごした年末年始(ジーアン先生)
It’s the new year, and I’m excited to be
back in school!
I spent my Christmas and New Year here in
Tokyo, Japan, and it was my first time to celebrate the holidays away from my
family, in another country. It was exciting, and I was able to visit many
places in Tokyo.
The winter break also gave me time to appreciate Japanese traditions and cultures, especially when it came to visiting shrines. I tossed a few coins, clapped my hands, bowed, and rang the bell to offer my prayers and wishes. I also saw many booths selling drinks, food, fortunes, and souvenirs.
With some friends, I went to visit some
shrines in Asakusa, Bunkyo, Shibuya, and Akasaka. I also saw some amazing
sights in Odaiba and Meguro. Although I was far from home, I wasn’t lonely because
Tokyo kept me busy with all its lights, festivals, and attractions. It’s
impossible not to love it!
The winter break also gave me time to appreciate Japanese traditions and cultures, especially when it came to visiting shrines. I tossed a few coins, clapped my hands, bowed, and rang the bell to offer my prayers and wishes. I also saw many booths selling drinks, food, fortunes, and souvenirs.
Although the weather was extremely cold,
the warm atmosphere and presence of friendly company kept me warm.
My first winter holiday in Japan was truly
memorable and exciting.
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