Hill of the Buddha
Today I took a journey to visit “Hill of the Buddha”. It felt quiet, almost reverent- like something to be discovered slowly. I am told in spring, lavender fields bloom around him, and only his head rises above them, like he’s emerging from the earth itself. Perhaps I will come back during that season.
Buddha has always felt familiar to me. I saw the reclining Buddha in Thailand once, but this felt different- maybe because this time, Im the one who has changed. Living here, even briefly, has shifted something in me.
I didn’t come from a life that looked like this. As a kid, growing up in a trailer park, this version of me- traveling, learning languages, standing quietly in places like this- felt unimaginable. I was awkward, unsure, I barely spoke. And yet, somehow, piece by piece, my life continued to unfold.
Now, I find myself here, in Japan, adding another language, another chapter. It feels like solving a quiet, intricate puzzle- one that only makes sense when you step back and see how far you have come.
Somewhere between who I was and who I am becoming, I found this moment.
#fyp #lemon8diarychallenge #travel #hokkaido #livingabroad Hokkaido
Visiting the Hill of the Buddha is more than just a sightseeing stop; it's an immersive experience that invites introspection and a connection with nature and spirituality. This unique site, known locally as 'Hill of the Buddha,' features a massive Buddha statue partly submerged in lavender fields during springtime, creating an aura of peaceful emergence from the earth itself. For those planning a visit, timing is essential — the fragrant fields transform the atmosphere and heighten the sense of reverence. Having had the chance to visit places of Buddhist significance around the world, such as the reclining Buddha in Thailand, I found the Hill of the Buddha in Hokkaido to offer a distinct feeling. Perhaps it’s the serene northern island setting or my own personal journey that lent a new depth to the experience. Exploring this site reminds me how travel not only shows us new places but also reflects our inner growth. Coming from humble beginnings, standing quietly in front of this monumental statue felt symbolic of how far life’s journey can take us. For travelers or expats living abroad, especially in Japan, the Hill of the Buddha offers a quiet retreat where one can absorb the culture and history embedded in the landscape. It’s a place to pause, meditate on your path, and appreciate the intricate beauty of life’s unfolding story. Whether you visit in the vivid lavender bloom or another season, the experience encourages mindfulness and personal reflection. If you're considering a trip to Hokkaido, adding the Hill of the Buddha to your itinerary is a must. Beyond the visual appeal, it nourishes the soul and invites visitors to slow down, embrace silence, and celebrate transformation. This charming blend of nature, art, and spirituality is something I plan to revisit — a reminder that every step in life, no matter how small or quiet, shapes who we become.
