Kyoto's little secret

New Year's eve was beautiful. We had plans to go to Shimogamo Shrine, which is a 20 minute bike ride from our house. In Japan, it's pretty common to visit a shrine or temple on New Year's eve. Visiting one or the other usually entails: praying, and/or standing outside in a long line to ring the new year bell with well wishes for the new year. The beauty of it all, is that it takes place outside. Kyoto is filled with temples and shrines tucked away in mountains or hillsides. The views are breath-taking. It's peaceful, and a wonderful way to connect with nature. I never get sick of it.

So, the thing about Kyoto is that it has this way of unfolding its' beauty before you, in ways that come from your own spontaneity. I have had the most amazing experiences here when I just let go of my "plans" and allow Kyoto to give me its' plan. So much of this insight comes from the mountains, rivers, gardens, shrines, temples, and its' tranquility. It has been such a gift to discover, and explore.

So, back to New Year's eve......We cycled for about 5 of the 20 minutes and realized that we had no desire to go the rest of the way in freezing temperatures, and decided to go to one of the local shrines. After we parked our bikes, we began up the hill to the stone steps leading to the main shrine. Along the way, the stars were bright and the path was candle-lit. It was super quiet, and I really felt like I could be with each moment. As we reached the top, we could hear a distant gong ringing. We decided to follow the sounds and moved down a dark path in the mountain and ended up at a temple with a gathering of people standing around a fire, waiting in a short line ready to ring the new year bell. The sights and sounds of it all were so magical. Watching and being a part of this small community of people anxiously awaiting to ring in the new year with wishes or prayers for a positive new year, felt...so connected, so intimate, so strong.

Kyoto showed us its' magic once again.