The term "okugake" refers to the Buddhist ascetic practice of walking along the pilgrimage course called Omine Okugakemichi, an 80-km route from Yoshino/Omine to Kumano Sanzan in Nara Prefecture. Passing along the Kii Mountains, the route, traditionally traveled by Buddhist monks, drew worldwide attention when it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004 as a time-honored spiritual attraction.
This show features the works of photographer Tomohiro Muda, who offers the public a rare opportunity to see glimpses of such pilgrimages as well as the disciplined routine that some Buddhists follow in order to purify themselves of any worldly desire; till June 7.
Kimpusen Temple; (0746) 32 8371; 2498, Yoshinoyama, Yoshino-cho, Yoshino, Nara; Yoshinoyama Station, Yoshino Ropeway; 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. ¥1,000. No online information available.
