After leaving Onzan-ji, the Henro route goes through bamboo forest which is not well-maintained. I remembered that I saw a TV program yesterday highlighting one young person who moved from the city and is trying to revitalize this small town by making some art from these unused bamboo.

Yes, it may be typical story and I probably saw similar stories several times in TV program indeed. However, I now feel this as “real” one, and started to think about its meaning. Probably the experience in WEEK Kamiyama gave me some impact to think as such. This is interesting aspect of being Ohenro-san, allowing me to think one thing thoroughly while walking.

While waking along the Henro route, you’ll find several sign posts. Some of them seems to be very old. You can also find rest places, and some of them have quite unique form as you see in the picture.

At No.19 Tatsue-ji, I’m amazed by this extremely thick rope for temple bell. In fact, it seems it’s for hugging rather than ringing the temple bell.

Then I also found this strange incense. It’s also really thick… probably 10 times thicker than the normal one. Something is strange, but I cannot find any reason behind 🙂

Although I like the temple as its old and unique style, I feel like this temple is bit too commercialized. Well that’s necessary for some aspects though…

The Sakai-ken honpo is located just in front of No.19 Tatsue-ji, and it’s famous for “Tatsue-mochi”. I’m font of Japanese confectionery, and bought this Tatsue-mochi. It’s different from usual Daifuku (rice cake with sweet beans), with its special pinkish color and delicate sweet tastes… recommended!