We left Katsuura Sightseeing Hotel at 8:30 a.m. and arrived at the entrance
to Daimon Slope at the foot of Nachiisan (Mount Nachi) in 30 minutes. The
slope is a pass of 600 meters, an old approach to Kumano Nachi Grand Shrine.
According to every introduction of Kumano Ancient Pilgromage Routes, this
mossy stone pass is the innevitable highlight. The cedar woods covering
right and left show an antique elegance, too.
Even this divine atmosphere might have had no power to prevent the abnormally
hot weather. On the way, some shop owner said, "It is 32℃", fanning
himself with a Japanese fan (uchiwa). The walking road must have been certainly
over 35℃. Although it was a shame to accuse heat wave for everything, I
wondered how many members enjoyed this place of the most scenic beauty
in the ancient routes.
It is not the first time for Emiko, either, and it must be her favorite.
But as far as today's visit is concerned, she looked dead tired, not tasting
any beauty. Neither Gods nor Buddha seemed to have anything against the
heat in mid summer. They were very sorry for no mercy this time.
|
