Hakone

A train from Tokyo leads me here

Rural scenery delights me.

A little red caboose waits at the end of the line for its passengers,

A switchback train weaves its way up the mountain,

Back and forth, it meanders lazily

With purpose.

We disembark onto a steep Cable Car that takes us to new heights,

Then a Gondola takes us to marvel at Fuji-San…

But she shies behind the clouds.

At the port I wait, to board my ship,

My new affectionate friend keeps me company

Neko-San transforms my pants to match his fur.

Ahoy, mateys!

On our lake adventure, we embark

Sailing the flat, calm seas of Ashi

We show our bravery on the ships’ bow

Pirate blood flowing through our minds

While the air freezes and the wind bites,

So we retreat.

Growing colder still, the shrine lies unexplored in the forest above

Higher and higher we climb

Torii gates juxtaposed against the deep dewy emerald.

And while the pilgrims worship,

Oh, what magic,

As snow begins to fall.

The Road to Senso-Ji

Golden rays of morning sun beckon,

When the torrent clears, I embark on my pilgrimage.

Steeped in tradition,

My environment bows humbly before me

The ruby path opens to enlightenment.

Master Shiba poses for the camera,

Regal, Polite and Proud

An asset to his breed

Kawaii Desu Ne!!

He makes us coo in delight.

I observe the Buddhist ritual,

Water, Incense, a Bow

I drop a coin, shake the box, pluck a token…

Number 86

The most fortunate of fortunes,

Under Buddha’s calm stare,

I smile contently

For life is beautiful.