Hachiman Shinto Shrine - Kamakura (1995)

Kamakura's most important shrine, it was founded in 1063. It was relocated in 1180 by Japan's first Shogun under the Kamakura government, Minamoto Yoritomo. These pictures were taken in January of 1995.







Japan Guide to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu

Hasedera Temple - Kamakura (1995)

These pictures was taken in January, 1995. The Temple is quite striking as it is situated on a hill. As part of the compound, there is a cave, that according to legend, was dug out by Kobo Daishi himself (in seclusion). The Temple thrived in the 13th century and has ties to a sister temple in Nara.

Temple Guide in English

A link to the sacred Kannon


Sanmon (Temple Gate)


Kannon-do


Yakuyoke (Protector from Evil Spirits) Amida Buddha, located in Amida-do Hall


Temple cave, as told in legend, to have been dug out by Kobo Daishi himself


Temple grounds - the entrance to the cave is on the right, beneath the small stone pagoda


Scenic lookout view of Sagami Bay

Kotoku-in (The Great Buddha) from 1995

These pictures are taken from a visit to Kamakura in 1995. The Great Buddha was originally built of wood, then destroyed, it was constructed again in bronze sometime in the 13th century, although the date is not exact. It was originally housed in a building but the building was destroyed by storms, war and floods (it was rebuilt after the first collapse).


The electric rail line that takes you to the Great Buddha. Notice the truck grill on the front? The ride is only about a half an hour in length. The ride itself is charming. You pass peoples backyards along the way. There are small crossing gates for pedestrian safety.


The approach is deceiving, the Buddha is much larger as you get closer.


Incense offerings.


Only when you stand directly beneath the Buddha do you see that the eyes are not closed but looking directly at you.


Behind the Great Buddha.


Inside the Great Buddha.

A Guide to Kotoku-in

Kamakura City's Official Website

A look back in time, revisiting Hasedera Temple, Kamakura, 1995

January 1995. There is a cave, which is supposed to be carved out by Kobe Daishi, which the visitor can walk through. The cave is dark and winding and is lit by candles. The cave features statues of the Goddess Benzaiten and 16 children carved out of the cave walls. Benzaiten is one of the 7 Gods and Goddess of fortune of Japan. Bensaiten is Goddess of Music, Fine Arts and Literature.


Kamakura Hase-dera Temple

Kamakura, a look back - 1995

Train ticket from Kamakura to Kotoku-in. The train is quite small, old and literally goes through the backyards of homes with little crossing gates at each pathway. Scenic and serene.

Nothing can prepare the visitor for the first time they visit the Great Buddha. As the visitor walks up - the statue gives an illusion that the eyes are closed. Only when the visitor stands in front of the Buddha does the visitor realize that Buddha's eyes are open and looking down directly at you. A very stirring moment in time.
Kotoku-in

Japan 1995 - Looking Back

I first visited Japan in 1995. I was there during the great Kobe earthquake. Although I did not feel the earthquake in Kawasaki, I felt the impact on the people in the office who's lives were affected by those they knew who lived in and around the earthquake zone. It was a deeply moving experience to see how devastating this was.
I will always remember this trip as it took me to Kamakura. Kamakura is a lovely place to visit and it is rich in history as well as being a beautiful place to see.

Coming of Age Day

Small train to Kamakura

Hachimin Shinto Shrine

Cave carved by hand by Kobo Daishi

Kabuki Theater in Asakusa

Laquerware shop

Train Station in Kamakura

Tokyo Station

The child's face is priceless

This has not changed in 20 years.

Shinjuku

Thunder Gate

Tokyo Tower before Skytree

Yokohama - very different today

Yokohama