The Third Day

The famed trip to Kamakura. We got there bright and early, but there is so much to see that we didn't make it in time to see the big Buddha statue :(. However, we are definitely going back for the cherry blossoms so no worries. :)

A few things stood out on this trip. One, a different (more modern) giant Buddha statue that we spotted first thing after we got off the train. Here's what it looked like from the station:



That was really kewl, especially since it wasn't on any of our maps or tourist information.

After a futile search for the botanical gardens, we boarded the train once again and headed to Kamakura, home of the Kamakura shogunate. There is a big hill and the shrines are set into it with steep steps leading up to them. Here is a view of two of the major shrines:



We spent some time going up and down stairs and walking from shrine to shrine. We went to the grave of the founder of the shogunate; but nearby his grave was a decrepit stair, which of course we climbed:



After climbing the stair and walking along a cliffside path, we found three quiet tombs set into the hillside. Toby found them first and says they sent a shiver up his spine when he first saw them:



Among other things seen at Kamakura were: a 1000-year old drippy tree, a bird in the first cherry blossoms, and twisty trees at the entrance/gate to another of the shrines. There are far more pictures on deviantart for those who care to look.

Kamakura was very peaceful - it was nice to be by the sea and have some fresh air. Of course, on our return trip we stopped for Greek food at "Athens", of earlier note, and a Miyazaki-themed store. The latter was soooo fun! They have a stuffed animal cat bus - I want it!!! :D