Then and Now (Photos) Sougen-ji (崇元寺) Naha, Okinawa, Japan

Here is what Sougen-ji looks like today.

Trying to duplicate the original photographer's shot, I had to stand in the middle of the street.

A black and white police car made me hurry and get out of there.

I wanted to show you the similarities and differences with this Then and Now.

Above photo courtesy of Okinawa Soba, a super Flickr contact of mine.

Most visitors to the island of Okinawa don't realize, they had real trains here before World War II.

Stop by and see Okinawa Soba's collection of fine photography.

There, you can learn a lot more about Sougen-ji and the history of the Ryukyu Islands.

Travel Photos: Sōgen-ji (崇元寺) Arched Stone Gates in Naha

Formerly a Buddhist Temple

 

Built sometime during the reign of King Sho Shin 1477-1526, only the walls remain.

The buildings and grounds were destroyed during the Battle of Okinawa.

The three arched stone gates are probably what most people photograph.

There isn't much to see, besides a public park, beyond them.

It only took a minute, to get some close-up shots of the stonework.

Soon, I'll be going back down that way, to take more photos of this historical monument.

There's a real gem of a Then and Now, waiting at  Sōgen-ji (崇元寺) for me.

As soon as the weather and Naha traffic cooperate, we'll getterdun.