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companion in every respect. The walk
from the hotel and up the hill through a
most charming grove of wonderful
large cryptomeria trees some 7 feet
in diameter and perfectly straight. I am told
they resemble the red woods of California
in appearance. To me they were very grand.
We passed by the sacred red bridge
spanning the Daiyagawa. A clear stream
about 4 feet wide, the stream flows among
great rocks and winds in many directions.
The whole is a grand combine of nature &
pagan worship. The Shoguns had certainly
magnificent taste & did every thing
very well. Only the Imperial Family are
allowed to cross the sacred bridge. 2 bridges
a few feet away are in daily use.
To these temples the pilgrims come
in great numbers. And these trees form
a grand avenue all the way to Tokyo.
The broad walk is called Nagasaka
and you reach the enclosure where
formerly stood Hombo the priests's
House. With in this enclosure stands
Nembutsu-do or Hall of the 3 Buddhas.
Behind the altar stands 3 great gilt images