In Tokyo's peaceful Yanaka district between Ueno and Nippori stations, you'll find dozens of temples and shrines, and one that's worth seeking out is Zuirin-ji. It has spacious grounds and a beautiful cherry-blossom tree, but the main point of interest is the carvings under the eaves of the main hall. Ornate and painstakingly detailed, there are fierce dragons, flying lions and elephant heads, even little fish and little dragons below the joints, with touches of colour adding some life and energy.
Peter Sidell @peter.sidell
I came to Japan from Manchester, England in 2003, and have travelled a lot since then, around Japan and in Asia. When I'm not working, I write satire and perform stand-up comedy in and around Tokyo. Check YouTube for a taste.
