Jizo Garden outside the Temple

A Jizo is the bodhisattva. (A bodhisattva is one who has attained enlightenment, whose true nature has found peace, but who has renounced 'nirvana' for the sake of helping others in their journey to liberation from suffering.) Jizos plunge fearlessly into any place or situation to help those in need. For anyone who has lost a child, Jizo is a powerful image of hope and solace. Jizo's qualities include unflagging optimism, fearlessness, and gentleness. Jizo Bodhisattva is usually portrayed as a child-monk, often carrying a pilgrim's staff with six rings that jingle to warn animals of his approach and prevent mutual harm. Here is the garden outside of the temple:

Marty is going to upload one more video of Japan. And next you'll hear all about Hong Kong. Which is a whole lot bluer than the Tokyo gray we were experiencing (even when it was sunny!)