Climbing two mountains north-west of Tokyo, continues.
After completing our two climbs, and filling our stomachs with hot udon noodles, we hiked to our final destination -- a Japanese temple. (The map labels the temple as "Daikoji". The characters are: 大光寺)
The hike took us past the Akigawa river. The wooden teepees in the foreground show stones encased in metal frames. These long stone tubes are used to clean the river.
Akigawa:
We had to climb more as this temple was located on yet another mountain. The view from the top was great though!
Autumn countryside:
Walking to the main gate of the temple:
Most people come to see these -- two very tall, yet old ginko (?) trees:
Temple bell in the background:
Detail of gate, under the roofing:
From here, a friend and I had to hurry to the station to catch a train home. I was working in the evening, so a two hour, six transfer ride later, I sat back at my desk with an hour to spare. Whew!
It was very long, tiring, yet fun day. I am looking forward to our next hike, which will take place after the New Year. We are planning to cook and eat a very traditional New Year food -- mochi! (pounded rice cakes)
I will be sure to blog about that in the near future.
~ Information ~
Mount Benten is located in Akiruno city, north-west of Tokyo city center. Nearest station: Musashi-Masuko on the JR Itsukaichi line. Travel time from Tokyo station: approx. 1 hour. Cost: ¥1,000 ($10) one way.
A hiking map of the area is available HERE.
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