Hit It, Guys!

There's nothing like the sound of the Wadaiko (Japanese Drums) outside, mixing with the sound of the breeze ruffling the leaves, and an occasional chirping of the birds.


It's not everyday we get a chance to see a Wadaiko performance. This was at the Tiger Festival at Tamon Temple. And the amazing perfomance was done by the monks as part of the festival!

Tiger Festival

Little little tigers, lined up along the main temple at Tamon Temple.

These tigers (Tora in Japanese) are placed here in our stead, with our prayers, so that no harm will fall on us. Bishamonten, the Buddhist god that is enshrined at Tamon Temple, personified as a tiger. The reason there are so many tigers.

Can you see all the different expressions on their faces? All the tigers are handmade!

Red Overhead

Nodate Parasol is a outdoor parasol commonly seen in temples and shrines. This particular type is called Tsumaore, which uses these colorful threads to weave the middle part.

This was used at Tamon Temple to shade people sitting on the benches outside.

Pink Peony

Today is Constitution Memorial Day in Japan. One of the many holidays during Golden Week.

It's interesting how people here are very passionate about Matsuri (festivals) but don't seem to embrace holidays in the same manner. We're happy about getting a day off from work or school, but can't quite remember what holiday it is. On the other hand, when it comes to Matsuri, we're all set and ready to celebrate the night away weeks in advance.

Well, it could be just me! Today is a holiday to celebrate the promulgation of the Constitution of Japan in 1947. And yes, I'm embarrassed to say, I did have to look up the year.

I thought I'd post this Peony flower today. It was growing in the garden of Tamon Temple. The temple is called 'Temple of Peony' because they have over 300 peony plants growing in the garden.