09‏/12‏/2015

Hodaiji Temple in Shizuoka

An oasis of serenity in the middle of the city

By Peter Sidell

Community writer

That little guy has a great vantage point on his arch over the pond

One of the big lanterns in the grounds

There are plenty of these little chaps around

Another lantern

The zen garden of raked gravel

It's relaxing to watch the fish glide around the pond

Lots of little statues taking it easy on the lawn

The lantern in front of the main hall

There's this impressive pagoda standing in the corner...

...close to this peaceful statue of the Kannon, the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy

Another lantern round the back of the main hall

There are these unusual elephants under the eaves of the main hall

This fellow seems not to be as happy as the rest

A statue in the graveyard

Close to the 109 Building near Shizuoka station, Hodaiji is an utterly charming temple, with a peaceful atmosphere and lots of interesting features for both casual visitors and temple-spotters like me. There are some unusual flying elephants under the eaves of the main hall, a lawn dotted with lots of little statues, a raked gravel zen garden, a carp pond where you can watch the fish swimming slowly around, and plenty more. It's a great place to take a break from the bustle of this lively city and relax your heart and mind.

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Peter Sidell

By Peter Sidell

Community writer

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