A Night in the Temple...With Kids

On the train to Koya yesterday, there was a precocious 10-year-old boy—half Japanese and half Thai (he lives mostly in Thailand)—traveling with his parents and a South African English teacher. The teacher said he was a bit of a genius, three years ahead of his grade-level. He spoke excellent English and was friendly and jolly as he chatted with Scott. When we told him we were going to Koya, he said it was a place for “old men,” not for children. He and his family were headed for Universal Studios in Osaka!

After a night spent in Koya, I see what the precocious boy means! Koya is a place of peaceful contemplation. At our beautiful temple-lodging (already described by Scott), the paper walls required us to speak at no more than a whisper – a challenge for Liv. Even during meals, there was almost no talking among the guests.

Scott and I attended the meditation ceremony before supper, leaving the kids in the room. We had to just hope that they behaved or that everyone else was at the ceremony, so the kids’ rambunctiousness wouldn’t disturb anyone.

Yet despite the peaceful atmosphere, or perhaps because of it, I think it was a great experience for us all. Liv practiced her meditation posture (she does a perfect lotus pose) and made a sign for her lap that said “No Photos or Video,” such as she has seen in front of many Buddhist sculptures during the trip. And she went to the evening bath with me—a traditional Japanese bathing experience.

Tor kept his nose in the Kindle, continuing to report on his progress through “Shogun.” But it was impossible not to soak up some of the calming energy of the monks and the gardens. He seems to be in a good place.

Today we strolled through the cemetery, which is more than 1300 years old and contains the graves of many famous people. It was a picturesque place, and also calming.

Now we’re on the train to Osaka airport, heading home. We’re all ready. I grabbed a dark chocolate bar in the station—the first chocolate we’ve had all trip. It tasted great. And Livia already has plans for waffles and pizza when we get home.

All in all, I think it has been a good trip, with lots to remember. Sayonara Japan!