Good old Google Maps took me directly to Tenshaen Garden with 14 different species of bamboo. After the whizzing sounds of vehicles, the chirping birds drowned out all other city sounds.
Occasionally there is a welcomed reprieve from busy Highway 56. In the first picture, can you find the red arrow pointing the way? I talked with a gardener shaping the trees. He’s familiar with USA as he vacations in Hawaii, lucky person.
Third day of walking along Highway 56. Can you blame me for hopping trains whenever possible?
Matsuri Tunnel is over a mile long and pedestrians get to claim a 2-foot wide side walk shared with cyclists. Kinda freaky. Now I understand why one o-henro offered me a face mask for tunnels as an o-settai.
Based on my observations, most walking o-henros are male and retirement age. Couples of all ages tend to drive automobiles.
This morning I met a retired Japanese o-henro. As he walks he’s praying for the marriage of his two daughters. When I fell into step with him, he remarked I walked fast. What a wonderful reminder I needed to slow down as minor blisters and tender calluses are on my toes.
At dinner, I met an o-henro who is walking Shikoku 88 Temples nine times. I’m such a rookie.
Splash of color…
One of three. You can go over, around, or through. I chose through the tunnel. It’s no surprise with all of the mountains, there are countless tunnels. Each tunnel is named and the distance is given in meters. About every 75 meters is an emergency button in case a panic attack or something far worse occurs.
Spectacular coast, Uwa-kai Sea. Turquoise water. Pearl farming. The wind blew me around like a kite today.
Strong headwinds added extra exertion to today’s walk. Arrived at Temple #40 feet weary. Hot tub was followed up with a good rest.
Temple #40…
