Nanzoin Temple

Mark and I went to the Nanzoin Temple this morning. We had never been and it was one place I really wanted to see. I was looking forward to seeing the statue of the reclining Buddha. This is the largest bronze statue in the world. Nothing really prepared me for the awe I would feel once I was in front of the statue. Wow! It was amazing.

As my friends and family know I have always liked having Buddhas around me. In Colorado I had a fountain in my house and a Buddha in my garden. This was just a spectacular site to behold. Not only was this the largest Buddha I had ever seen, but I was able to see so may different Buddha statues around the temple property. The setting on the mountain is simple breathtaking. It made me feel very small and humble standing in front of this towering Buddha.

You will see many photos below. Just know that I did not post all of the photos I took which was well over 210. I know, some of you are probably thinking I am crazy, but I know what I like.

We were able to follow winding paths with stair leading up and down the mountain side. The bamboo forest all around us was an added bonus!

Once we left the temple we took the train back into the Hakata station. All I want to know is why did no one tell me about the amazing restaurants, shops and entertainment areas in Hakata???? Wow, we had such a delicious lunch that was vegetarian and scrumptious! Mark enjoyed his lunch, too. There was a scary moment when we were there. An older man was being taken out of a stretcher with the police and medics. Hopefully he will be OK. I do not know what happened....I just set prayers and angels his way.

We walked around the different levels of the shopping mall. We ate on the 9th floor so we had a lot to see. Knowing we would not have enough time today we hit the food stores on the lower level and bought some very good looking bread.

Becky, if you are reading this....you will never believe what I found! I found mango Baskin Robbins ice cream candies. I know, can you believe it??? I haven't tried it yet, but when I do I will report back to you.

We decided that we would go back on Friday to look around since there is just too much to see in one trip.

We had a very nice day and the weather could not have been better. very clear skies, cool weather and a soft breeze. Boy-oh-boy....Mark and I really enjoy our life her in Japan.

More to come tomorrow....I do not know what we are doing yet.

Buddha's head you can see from the parking area.

12 Chinese Zodiac symbols with Buddhas.

A musical bridge.

Buddhas everywhere