Kanzan-ji Temple — Attraction in Hamamatsu

Tachi-San instructed me today, as I did my first ever Zen Meditation in the beautiful Kanzan-Ji Temple. First, he kindly explained to me why people practice this kind of meditation in the first place and enlightened me about the life of the Buddha and how the Buddha picked up Zen-Meditation as an answer to the suffering in the world. Then, he instructed me to sit down on a pillow and taught me the appropriate way to sit. He put up small space dividers to ensure I wouldn’t be distracted by anything in sight. Furthermore, these also ensured I wouldn’t have to think about people possibly seeing me. I was let to practice the Zen meditation for 40 minutes. After 20 minutes he kindly checked in, to see if I was doing okay.

All in all it was a fun experience and I am very thankful for the kind supervision of somebody who knows so much about this practice. Thank you very much for letting me...

Kanzanji Temple is a historic and revered temple founded by Kobo Daishi, a place that has welcomed people for over 1,200 years. ​The history of this temple has not been a smooth journey. It has been struck by fires and wars on numerous occasions, almost losing everything each time. Yet, it has risen again and again, as if reflecting our own human spirit in overcoming life's hardships and adversities. ​The "Exorcism Kannon" enshrined in the main hall has quietly watched over people's struggles, casting away their misfortunes with a compassionate heart. When we join our hands in prayer at this temple, we don't just seek blessings; we also gain the courage to face any adversity. ​Beyond your prayer lies a breathtaking view that will leave you speechless. When you gaze upon this scenery with a pure heart, a clear light will fill your own heart, just like the sky reflected on the surface...

Another pleasant surprise to discover our ryokan is located at the famous Kanzanji-Ji temple. It was a nice climb to the hill, it is one loop if you follow the foot path and a great view of the Hamana Lake. There are many awesome sights along the foot path, the gigantic big Sho Kanzeon Bosatsu Mt. Tateyama, a small mountain; Goddess of Mercy (Guan Shi Yin Pusa), various Buddha stones along the footpath with stacked stones. It was a very...