International Christian University (Tokyo) JDS fellows pose in front of the Kamakura daibatsu (the one in orange isn’t Garfield, but the stout image of this blogger’s former self)

But unlike its Nara cousin, the Kamakura daibatsu sits out in the open. The statue, it is said, was originally housed in Kotokuin temple but the enclosure was swept away by a tsunami in the late 15th century.

Garfield and friends, with the great buddha in the background

The serenity of the sitting bronze buddha has mesmerized thousands, including the so-called Lady of Nijo, and English poet Sir Rudyard Kipling.

Looking down, it is as if this red torii was built to invoke the gods’ protection from giant waves. The temple where the daibatsu was said to be housed originally was purportedly swept away by a tsunami. With the temple this close from the shore, there is practically no need for explanation.

Torii greeting Nara’s visitors

The red torii, this time from a bit farther

Large keyhole-shaped burial mounds were purportedly constructed between the late third and the early fourth century A.D. at the foot of Miwa Mountain, east of Nara Basin. It is believed that those mounds were for the ancient kings, who eventually expanded their powers over the entire land. I don’t know where exactly this trail leads but these stone slabs sure look creepy.

What exactly are these things? Lamps or tombstones?

Climbing further up the trail and we are greeted with more of these creepy stones

Kamakura’s Daibatsu or great buddha is among this ancient capital’s main tourist attractions

One of Japan’s favorite hiking spots, Kamakura is small and may be covered by foot in less than a day. In the olden days, however, it served as the de facto capital of Japan as the seat of the Shogunate (Bakufu). I think this was during the reign of Minamoto Yoritomo in 1192. In fact, by 1250 AD, Kamakura became the 4th largest city in the world, a thriving community of 200,000 people.

Dining places near the pier

Kamakura is often referred to as the Kyoto of eastern Japan because of its well-preserved shrines, temples and monuments. It has also become a favorite surfing site among Tokyo residents.

Kamakura’s dark sands and wavy shores for some reasons are becoming a come-on for Tokyo’s surfing enthusiasts

More of those quaint dining places near the pier

The 599 meter tall mountain (not so steep, hence, very ideal for brisk walking especially during autumn when the entire mountain turns into resplendent crimson).

The mountain is traditionally regarded as the home of the Tengu, a minor god in Japanese folklore. By the way, if you have just tied the knot it may be best for you to go out hiking somewhere else. Folks here believe that young couples who climb Mount Takao are bound to separate shortly after the trek.

I do not believe though that people should go about buying these high tech tools just because they have become more affordable. Price should not be the only consideration, lest one ends up not being able to maximize the capability of the gadget. It is interesting to note, for example, how high tech phones have become a fad in the Philippines even though its most common usage has not really gone beyond texting and picture taking. Seriously, how many can actually program their symbian phones to work like a pocket computer?

This is going back to basics, so to speak. I bet you won’t believe what small wonders a low-tech 1.3-megapixel camera can do.

By the way, these photos are for viewing, not for borrowing. If you must borrow them, at least give credit where credit is due.