20Apr08:Impressions about Shikoku 88-Temple Circuit Experience (2)
「The musings of an errant pilgrim」
I was looking forward to trying walking on the 88-temple pilgrim's path in Kagawa, because I knew the area we would be walking in was very beautiful, with majestic views of the Inland Sea, Takamatsu, and the Shikoku Mountain Range depending on which way we were facing. Putting on the traditional robes outside our first temple, Kokubunji, I was getting quite excited as the press cameras were filming us and asking for our views on the pilgrimage. However, after setting out for our second destination, Shiramineji, the excitement was soon turned to determination, as the mountain stretched out ahead of us.
Walking up the steep trail, looking out at ever more impressive views of the surrounding landscape, it struck me that the pilgrims who follow this trail every day must look out at the same view and find in it the will to carry on and finish their epic trek. Realising this, my heavy feet were infused with new energy and I carried on to the 2nd temple, Shiramineji.
On the trail to the final of our three temples, Negoroji, the trail took us through muddy forest paths, rocky valleys and on paved roads. As we neared the temple, I heard its heavy bell resounding through the trees, and I felt it call me on for the final few hundred meters. Upon reaching the temple, the feeling of sanctuary which washed over me as I walked through the glade of pines towards the main temple building containing the Kannon with 1000 Hands, while surely only a fraction of that felt by the true pilgrims, was the highlight of a wonderful day of walking in the hills.
By Andrew Cockburn
