Arriving at the Pacific Ocean
This day was the last day in the Tokushima Prefecture
The day I arrived at the Pacific Ocean, I stayed overnight at the Minshuku Yuki-so, one of various family – style lodging places that are often situated close to a temple. This minshuku was very special because of the closeness to the ocean. This view was captured through the window of my room.
The signs on the poll are typical signs for the pilgrims to show them the way.
With the ocean closeby and therefore the threat of a tsunami, evacuation signs were posted in many places.
Yakuōji (temple 23) is a famous destination for people who are seeking good luck. It is said that Kūkai or Kōbō Daishi was once praying for good fortune for himself and others at this temple. Ever since, people come and ask for the same and leave money on the stairs. There are 33 stairs designated for women and 42 stairs designated for men. Both numbers are considered in Japan as truely unlucky ages and are called hon-yakudoshi (also ages 37 and 61). Both stairways were covered with money that had been donated. Every so often a priest came with a broom and brushed the money into a bucket.
A monk carrying the money in two buckets
A visitor hits the umpan (cloud – shaped gong) as many times as his age to ward off potential unlucky incidents. Originally, the umpan was used in China to summon up government officials and later on used in temples also. With Buddhism, it was also introduced in Japan.
The Pagoda of Yakuōji is another interesting site. Beside the statue of Kannon and Buddha, pictures depicting scenes of hell can be seen below.
Hell scenes warning the visitors to live ethically to avoid suffering.
Kannon, Buddha of Compassion
Yakuōji is located in Minami Town . Below, you can see the harbor and Hiwasa castle on the hill.
My path along the shore was sprinkled with fallen camellia blossoms and surrounded by the stunning ocean.
Along the shore, the path constantly went up and down. I was lucky not to have to carry my heavy backpack. My friend Kato-san unexpectedly came on a visit and took it in her car to the next lodge.
At the end of the day, Kato-san and I enjoyed a good beer and a delicious meal together.
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