Sawayaka Walking in Mori-machi (4) - Zenshoji Temple with reclining Buddha

From Gokurakuji Temple, I walked more than 3 km without a break. I saw some farms selling their corn on the cob in stalls by the road, however, I intended to buy some immediately before I l left Mori-machi. In addition to corn fields, Mori-machi has many tea plantations, like this one on the hillside.

As it was cloudy, it wasn’t very hot. I could walk comfortably and came to Zenshoji Temple near Enden Station of Tenhama Line. Before I participated in Sawayaka Walking, I had never heard about this temple. When I entered though this gate, I felt richness of the cultural heritage of Mori-machi.

In front of the main building, the temple has a garden with a reclining Buddha. Though it is a common image of Buddha in Thailand, I had seldom seen one in Japan, as most temples only have an image of sitting Buddha. The statue and its surroundings had a peaceful atmosphere. Buddha looked as if he were sleeping comfortably.

Beside the garden, there were some people serving free cold tea to participants of the walk. I also got one cup and found that the tea had a dark green color. Though it was cold, I could feel a strong flavor of high-quality leaves. It was so refreshing. I was grateful for the hospitality of the people who prepared it for us.

Then I made a prayer and entered inside of the building, following other participants. There I saw a garden behind bamboo blinds.

It was quite big.

I sat on the floor and enjoyed this splendid view for a while.

It was amazing that Mori-machi has so many interesting places to visit. Before I went back to the walking course, I found a heart-warming message from the chief priest, which said “Thank you for visiting. Be careful on the way.”