In Europe, it is easy to get churched out. I have few distinct memories of cathedrals; there's just a cold, gray haze of feeling vaguely impressed. Heading to Japan, we were warned of a similar experience, particularly in Kyoto, of becoming templed out.
I have to say, it didn't happen to me.
I am sure it is possible. Temples (Buddhist) and shrines (Shinto) are everywhere - and I do mean everywhere: tucked between old buildings in historic districts, hidden in the midst of rows of shops, at the end of every street. Markets have their own shrines; city corners and country roads have little Jizo buddhas. Torii gates are omnipresent.
It's interesting, when you consider that Japan is not a particularly religious nation. But despite the sheer quantity, my interest never waned.
For one thing, shrines and temples in Japan are interactive experiences - even for outsiders. Take my favorite temple experience, Todai-ji, which sits in a giant park alongside other shrines and temples in the center of Nara: like an amusement park for the soul. Tame deer approach looking for treats and pause, like zen masters, to be petted. The deer, messengers of the gods, defy cynicism: they are simply too, well, endearing.
Todai-ji itself is ginormous, built to house a ginormous bronze statue of Buddha.
I have to say, it didn't happen to me.
It's interesting, when you consider that Japan is not a particularly religious nation. But despite the sheer quantity, my interest never waned.
For one thing, shrines and temples in Japan are interactive experiences - even for outsiders. Take my favorite temple experience, Todai-ji, which sits in a giant park alongside other shrines and temples in the center of Nara: like an amusement park for the soul. Tame deer approach looking for treats and pause, like zen masters, to be petted. The deer, messengers of the gods, defy cynicism: they are simply too, well, endearing.
Todai-ji itself is ginormous, built to house a ginormous bronze statue of Buddha.
