And so it begins...

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Beginning my Goshuin collection; Sumiyoshi Taisha shrine

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One of my goals on this hike is to visit many temples and shrines along my route. In part to simply observe their beauty and appreciate the culture, but also to participate in a small way by praying and collecting Goshuin (temple stamps). My first stop of many to this end was at Sumiyoshi Taisha shrine, the largest shrine in Osaka. This is where you must cleanse yourself before entering the shrine grounds. Sumiyoshi Taisha is noteworthy not only for it's size, but also it's iconic and magnificent bridge leading up to the main shrine ground: The water is brimming with turtles and koei . Most shrines and temples have a small office where you can purchase a book to collect your Goshuin in, called a Goshuin-cho. Larger shrines and temples will have goshuin-cho that are unique to their grounds. I am very pleased that I was able to explore these grounds, pray here and then receive my first Goshuin! I am looking forward to collecting many more along m
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Day 81: Enforced ease in Tokyo

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These last few days in Tokyo have been extremely restful, but also challenging in the pursuit of that rest. It seems that walking constantly for a few straight months sets a subconscious rhythm, one that even when the music has stopped my body wants to keep moving to. Despite my many pains, and a desire to rest for their sake, I have found it hard to actually do so. Each morning I tell myself I am going to just stay in bed that day, relax and do as little as possible.  By the end of the day I have walked at least 12km. In part Japanese cities and walking go together like government and corruption, you can't have one without the other it would seem.  So even just the act of going somewhere nearby typically can draw me into more walking than I planned on. But also, I am simply fighting to feel comfortable not being constantly on the move. Even when I was taking off days on the trail, I was still exploring the place I found myself extensively. I would walk nearly as much on o
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