In the Yamagata domain, there is a mountain temple called Ryushakuji, a serene, quiet seat of religion founded by the Great Teacher Jikaku. Urged by others to see it, we retraced our steps some seven leagues from Obanazawa. We arrived before sundown, reserved accomodations in the pilgrims' hostel at the foot of the hill, and climbed to the halls above. The mountain consists of piles of massive rocks. Its pines and other evergreens bear the marks of many long years; its moss lies like velvet on the ancient rocks and soil. Not a sound emanated from the temple buildings at the summit, which all proved to be closed, but we skirted the cliffs and clambered over the rocks to view the halls. The quiet, lonely beauty of the environs purified the heart.

shizukesa ya           Ah, tranquility!
iwa ni shimiiru           Penetrating the very rock,
semi no keo           a cicada's voice.