This 5-story Pagoda is the highest (180 ft.), and most famous wooden Pagoda in Japan. It is intended for enshrining Buddha's remains. Pagodas are built to absorb earthquake tremors by swinging like a pendulum. Some 5-story Pagodas have been destroyed by fires or typhoons, but there have been no reports of any being destroyed by earthquakes.
This is Daishi-do, (Kobo Daishi's hall), which is a grand sacred place which comforts visitors and helps them to seek for the truth.
Main hall of the Buddhist temple. It is open to the public, and is also used as a school and for various ceremonies.
Jizo Bosatsu - These pinwheels are for unborn children. Their mothers come and pray; offering the pinwheels, along with candles and incense, sweets, stuffed animals, and clothes in hopes of consoling their souls.
I forgot what these 2 were...
One of the first really peaceful little ponds with some statues in it.
Bokeyoke Kannon - this statue is a deity for older people who are beginning to forget things. This Kannon protects people from dementia.
The beginning of Ashley's nature walk...
The BIG Buddha!
I just thought these little statues were funny - not sure what their "function" is.
Inside the Big Buddha.
Also inside the Big Buddha.
More statues.
This is Ichigan Kannon (One-Wish Kannon.) This Kannon will accept just one wish of worshipers.
The statue of the priest Kobo-Daishi, wearing a sedge hat. He was the founder of the Shingon sect, and lived from 774-835.
This pond was somewhat secluded, and was also very peaceful.
A statue of Fudo Myooh. He "severs people's bad thoughts with the sword and forcefully brings people taking the wrong path back to the right path with the rope. So he is a welcome deity."
Various other statues in the pond.
Continuing her nature walk...
Enjoying some yummy ice cream at the dolphin show at Asamushi Aquarium in Aomori.
Those darn "L's" and "R's"!
