Not easy today...

I could've postponed it to tomorrow. I easily guessed that it might be a bit snowing, and that the path might be covered with some snow, but I thought better visit "大神神社” (Oomiwa Shrine) today to climb Mt. Miwa. 

On the way to Nara on JR Yamato line, it was already snowing as the train was getting to closer to Nara's mountainous area. And on the way to Miwa on JR Mahoroba line, bit more snow.  I was wondering if the gate of Mt. Miwa is open today or not. 

Fortunately, the gate was open when I got to the registration at the ”狭井神社” (Sai Shrine) located in the area of the "大神神社” (Oomiwa Shrine). 

"I'm gonna climb up as steadily and carefully as I can for safety". And at the same time, bathing myself in the holy energy as long as possible, I spoke to myself. Even though I surely walked carefully and took a bit time at ”三光の滝” (Sanko Waterfall) where Ascetics are doing a practice of sitting under a waterfall, I reached the top just in one hour which didn't make a big difference from the usual timing. 

The beauty of the path covered with a slight of snow was a holy beauty. Since we are strictly forbidden to take any photos in the holy area, I put all into my memories. When I got back to the entrance, the sign of "The gate is closed today due to bad weather condition" was already placed. I thanked to the God for keeping the weather condition right until I came down to the entrance. 

I thought that it is going to be a bit tough walk today, but not at all except for this chilly weather. My body became really chilled. 

Then a reward time as usual after trekking. In this chilly weather, this warm Miwa noodles are the best! The restaurant was a bit busier with more guests than usual because it was the first day of the month today. Many were visiting the shrine to buy a holy branch of Ceder tree for the alter at home and a branch of Bamboo tree which symbolizes the flourish of business. 

It seems that Ebisu festivals period is different from others in this area. 

One guest said, "What!?" all of sudden staring at something behind me. I looked back, and found a small falcon on a branch attached on the wall. 

"Wow! I didn't notice it at all so far!", said to the owner. 

It was probably because of the table location I normally take a seat. The falcon was keep giving us an adorable glance at us moving the neck quickly. It may be well tamed by the owner. 

For me, this trekking in this holy mountain is like an ascetic's practice. While climbing up the steps, many thoughts are coming out, some good and bad. When I get the bad ones, I feel not enough practice. What I'm doing in this mountain is probably like pealing off the layers of thoughts which are not necessary to reach what I want. 

Anyway, I'm sure that it will take more time to take it off somehow.

Can't wait for the next month... 

Masami