Strolling Around the Ancient City (Day 5)

Tamika at Tsuragaoka Hachimangu Shrine

Yesterday, we went to Kamakura, which is about 2.5 hours away from us by train. Kamakura was once the capital of Japan, and is an ancient city replete with shrines, temples, and the like.

Great Buddha

Tamika at the Great Buddha

One of the main attractions is Kotokuin Daibutsu (Great Buddha) and Tsuragaoka Hachimangu Shrine. Great Buddha is the second largest bronze statue in Japan. Tsuragaoka Hachimangu shrine is one of the most popular shrines in Kamakura; it is the largest Shinto shrine in Kamakura. Buddhism and Shinto are two of the major religious practices in Japan.

Having lots of fun!

Shopping on the streets of Kamakura

The weather in Kamakura was simply gorgeous compared to the winter chills of Tokyo. Tamika and I walked around tiny streets where merchants were selling goods distinct to both Japan and Kamakura. On a narrow shopping street, we found a merchant selling goods, and she counted the money with a cash register that looked like beads. This was very neat...I tell you culture is AMAZING! This woman was counting our change without the typical cash register. To top it off, she was extremely nice and spoke to us entirely in Japanese!!!

Video of the cash register is below....