Monday, March 26, 2007

Don't Just Do Something, Get Out and Sit There

It's been awhile since I last posted. The computer officially crashed and then was repaired and restored, then I officially crashed. Well, not officially but sort of. I've been rather lazy as of late, not doing much of anything, just saving money for my impending return to the states in June. The warm weather as of late though has helped me shake the cobwebs off myself and question, why am I sitting on my ass when I can be running around staring at temples and stuff. This Sunday Scott, Al, Ken, Julie and I went to Namhansamseong fortress to walk around a wall and stare at temples,; a biathlon of sorts. We had a great time and got to remind myself why I came to Korea, to see some unique things and different way of life, and not just stare at Korean TV screens in my apartment. Pics follow.

Big Gate


Big Gate
Originally uploaded by karmking1111.
A dramatic beginning to the hike.

Ancient Fortress Wall


Ancient Fortress Wall
Originally uploaded by karmking1111.
Admire the majesty of the ancient, yet newly renovated and replaced, Namhamsamseong fortress wall.

What a Second, You Can't Fool Me

I love how the nature conscious Buddhists put fake pine bows on this telephone\ power pole in order to help preserve the illusion of being in balance with nature. Too bad they couldn't cover up the power lines nor the transformer boxes. I give them an A for the attempt and a D for the actual appearance.

Guardian of the Temple


Guardian of the Temple
Originally uploaded by karmking1111.
Look, he's got a hairnet.

Buddah Tower Detail


Buddah Tower Detail
Originally uploaded by karmking1111.

Guardian of the Stairs


Guardian of the Stairs
Originally uploaded by karmking1111.
Happy Guardian

Royal Outhouse


Royal Outhouse
Originally uploaded by karmking1111.
I was explaining to Scott and Allison that I think this is the real temple and only the enlightened can see it for it what it really is. Furthermore, it is just shameful what the unenlightened do in this temple.

The Hike


The Hike
Originally uploaded by karmking1111.
It's tough to get lost on a Korean hike.

Breastworks


Breastworks
Originally uploaded by karmking1111.
The sign says, "Breastwork are the parapets on the upper deck of a fortress," and this made us giggle uncontrollably.

Tidy Pile of Rocks


Tidy Pile of Rocks
Originally uploaded by karmking1111.
These rock piles are supposedly made by Buddhist monks without concrete or any adhesive of any kind, though Ken spotted some concrete up top for the pinnacle. Still, it's a monument to what a person can do if you have enough time on your hands.