First view of the ocean

The tall, difficult mountains are behind us. For the next few weeks we will follow the coast. Today we crossed a low mountain and then spent the rest of the 22 km we walked on paved roads.

At temple 22, Byodoji,Ian and I performed the now familiar ritual - bow at the gate, wash our hands, ring the temple bell, light a candle and then incense, put our name cards in a box, drop 100 yen in another box, and finally chant the Heart Sutra.

Both Ian and I are feeling the effects of the Henro, mentally and physically. Everything hurts, but we are gradually becoming more centered and more accepting of things as they are.