#kitain

Kita-in garden, Kawagoe by DanÅke Carlsson

Kitain, Kawagoe, Saitama, Japan 

http://kazz.blaze.co.jp/archives/5278

Kintai 🇯🇵

Today we went to Kawagoe, also known as Koedo ("little Edo"). More photos and info on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/Bbt1HGiDBSR/ I didn't realize a few places were actually closed Monday, so we spent most of our time in Kurazukuri no Machinami (Warehouse District), an area full of shops and cafes set up in Edo-period buildings. In the morning we visited Kitain. This temple contains the only parts of Edo Castle still in existence, including a room believed to be the birthplace of the Shogun Tokugawa Iemitsu. It's also home to the 500 Statues of Rakan - actually 540 statues representing the disciples of Buddha. Every statue is distinct, with different expressions and poses - some are interacting with objects, animals and even each other. There's a legend that if you go at night amongst the statues, you'll find that one is warm to the touch. If you mark it and come back during the day, it will be the statue that is most like you. It was fascinating to walk through them. I took photos of a few of my favourites. Kitain was also hosting a chrysanthemum festival while we were there! One of my favourite flowers, and there were even English explanations on the various types, styles and configurations being exhibited.

Today's photo taken in Kawagoe Daishi Kita-in, Japan 🍁

http://kazz.blaze.co.jp/archives/5266