Red Leaf Trail

The Kamakura Red Leaf Trail or the Kamakura Ten-en Hiking Course is located near the Kita-Kamakura train station. It was about a 25 minute train ride/ walk to the trail head from where we live. From what I read, on a clear day, you can see Mt. Fuji. Let’s hope today is clear enough! Fortunately, before leaving the train station, I snapped a quick picture of the route.

We were entering through the neighborhood and it was very useful to have the map for reference as we walked towards the trail head. We were also pretty lucky to have the trail head well marked. Also notice on the sign is the sign for a Buddhist temple. It looks like a reverse swastika. The first time I saw it, I had to do a double take and ask Google for clarification. It is in no way associated with any anti-Semite movement. In fact, completely the opposite. It means, “that which is associated with well being.”

A front yard! Lakewood circle needs some of these bridges!

Another front yard!

The only red leaf tree I saw on the Red Leaf Trail.

A shrine, of course

And another shrine.

We continued on our way and found a cute little neighborhood lending library. Too bad all the books are in Japanese!

A few more signs marking the trail head. Be cautious not to follow the direction of the hiker man!

The roads are so narrow, mirrors are helpful!

This sign was my favorite of the day. The Japanese don’t like to tell you NO or NOT to do something. Sometimes it is absolutely necessary. For example, “Don’t Litter.” So, when they do, it is said so nicely and with rainbows.

Finally, at the trail head and up we go…

Yokohama in the background

Obviously, the Red Leaf Trail is not living up to its name. I will need to return in a few more weeks to capture the foliage.

We made it to the top and went out onto the overlook. After a minute of getting our bearings, we saw Mt. Fuji!! And a Japanese sea hawk!!

Every time I have a chance to see Mt. Fuji, I get very excited. Often the clouds are blocking it. Having the opportunity to catch a partial glimpse is spectacular.

After viewing Mt. Fuji from the lookout, we headed down a lot of stairs to a temple.

Steps going down to the Temple

Pray cards

Another glimpse of Fuji

Even in Japan Pokémon isn’t appreciated everywhere.

Steps going back up

Once back on the trail, we finished the hike at another… Temple!

The temples might be an unexpected aspect about Japan I truly appreciate. The temples are welcoming to all visitors regardless of faith. They encourage you to visit and ask nothing in return other than kindness. Honestly, the world could use a little more kindness. The Gardens of temples are meticulously maintained and provided great care. When you visit, I hope to share with you a few of my favorites.

Continuing on our way through Kamakura to the train station, we passed through another temple. Fortunately for us, it is the Japanese holiday, “Culture Day.” It is a day the Japanese nationals spend appreciating and teaching the youth about Japanese culture. We saw several kids dressed in kimonos.

And a wedding!!