Tag Archives: Japan travel

When the Usual ‘Normal’ Isn’t How It’s Done

Posted on November 19, 2015 by Lynda Philippsen

In an environment where my normal way of doing things doesn’t work as I expect it to, I am surprised by how long it takes to adapt. Sometimes I don’t. Continue reading →

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Running for the Train

Posted on January 17, 2015 by Lynda Philippsen

Like a herd of wild beasts, we’re merely running. Like everybody else. Continue reading →

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Rikugien: the garden of waka poetry

Posted on June 15, 2014 by Lynda Philippsen

This strolling garden is renowned as “the garden of Japanese waka poetry” with 88 views described in ancient anthologies of poems. Continue reading →

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TESSEI Shinkansen Cleaning Crews

Posted on May 26, 2014 by Lynda Philippsen

Watching these human cleaning-bullets in action—and timing them to see whether the seven-minute bit is true—adds a little bit of show business for the passengers who otherwise might chafe at having to wait those extra seven minutes before boarding. Continue reading →

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The Heart of Tanigumi Kegonji: Part Five of Five

Posted on April 27, 2014 by Lynda Philippsen

Tanigumi Kegonji temple is the final destination on a renowned 33-temple pilgrimage. Here pilgrims can search the cave below the temple for a smooth stone. If they find it, they have touched Buddha’s heart. Continue reading →

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Into the Underworld of Tanigumi Kegonji: Part Four of Five

Posted on April 19, 2014 by Lynda Philippsen

Now the blackness here in the belly of the earth is complete. I cannot see the fingers I wiggle in front of my face. Continue reading →

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The Ascent Toward Tanigumi Kegonji: Part Three of Five

Posted on April 12, 2014 by Lynda Philippsen

The moment my right foot hits the top step, gongs sound and the monks begin to chant. Everything vibrates with energy like a rocket lifting off. Continue reading →

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Along the Avenue to Tanigumi Kegonji: Part Two of Five

Posted on April 6, 2014 by Lynda Philippsen

Pausing at shops and a restaurant along the broad avenue, we work our way up the steady incline toward Tanigumi Kegonji temple. Continue reading →

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On Our Way to Tanigumi Kegonji: Part One of Five

Posted on March 27, 2014 by Lynda Philippsen

We are lost. Not exactly lost as our driver and the rest of us know are in Gifu on our way to Tanigumi Kegonji. Continue reading →

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Riding with Constant Uncertainty

Posted on November 1, 2013 by Lynda Philippsen

As I hurtle through the darkness I can’t help but feel it as a metaphor for existence. Continue reading →

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