Monday, October 3, 2011

The Sad and yet Magnificent 伤心,但壮丽 (1) ...


Kek Lok Si Temple
the pride of Air Item in Penang
...
I have not visited this temple for many years,
the recent trip was sad
...
It has become a tourist site 
rather then a religious place
...

Kek Lok Si 极乐寺 ...


The staircase leading up to the temple is adorned with 
commercial businesses

Steps 梯阶 ...


Further up the staircase, the conditions of the surroundings 
of the temple is utterly un-inviting 
...

Kek Lok Si 极乐寺 ...


Kek Lok Si 极乐寺 ...


Just before the temple, there is 
a pond with turtles
but sadly it is not well taken care of

Kek Lok Si 极乐寺 ...

Entrance to the temple ...


It is quite embarrassed to see such sight 
just before entering the actual temple itself

Entrance to the temple ...


Beyond all of what you have seen
is the
Magnificent Kek Lok Si temple 
is still a pretty sight, 
like those you see in tourist brochures
...

Kek Lok Si 极乐寺 ...


I suppose leaving the temple going down the steps
is a symbol of stepping
back to reality 
...

Kek Lok Si 极乐寺 ...


Kek Lok Si Temple, Penang 
槟城极乐寺 ...