Temples and Autumn leaves

Today we walked to Chuson-Ji Temple founded in 850. This impressive temple complex is set in ancient cedar forests towering over glorious scarlet and gold maples and contains treasures and artefacts many from the 12th century.  But it is the landscape which fascinates and delights - groves of tall bamboo, sculptural maples, moss covered rocks and protruding tree roots which give an ancient air to the scene.

Displays of flowers beautifully arranged dot the complex.

We were really struck by the fact that we were the only westerners visiting and this was also so at our hotel! This part of Japan is rather remote from the usual tourist haunts and this is reflected in that signage in English is very,very minimal. During the walk, at the temples and in the village we saw no other Caucasians. We felt quite privileged to be here and enjoying a very Japanese experience.

Afterwards we walked downhill through forests of maples, conifers and cedars along a boardwalk frequently punctuated with signs warning of bears and wooden mallets with which to strike a board to scare them away.  A great way to keep a group of walkers moving - who wants to be at the end of the line!

Our last visit of the day was to another temple Motsuji Temple which featured elegant gardens in the ancient style and peaceful streams and a lake.

A number of us lit incense sticks in memory of past friends and family.

It was a wonderful day full of glorious scenery, some culture and a good walk.  Tomorrow we send our bags on and take all we need for two nights in our backpacks.  We have debated long and hard on what we really need.