Buddha's Birthday

Earlier this month, all throughout Asia, people were celebrating the birth of Prince Siddhartha Gautama, better known as Buddha. Buddhism being a major religion and the impact being seen throughout Asia, it is imperative that he be celebrated.



The holiday is mainly observed by hanging lots of multicolored lotus lanterns all over temples and streets. But we found some more creative lanterns along the stream in Gwanghwamun.





The lighting and design was so bright and brilliant that it was perfect for a night viewing. People were lined all the way from one end of the stream to the other. There were also assorted statues along the walkway, but people were far more interested in the lanterns.



What was also cool is that the whole area seemed to take on a "Light Up" theme, along with the lanterns. Particularly beautiful was the waterfall at one end of the stream with blinking spotlights set on either side.



But my personal favorite, was the fleet of specially lit, horse-led carriages. We watched couple after couple hop into these things and I almost considered hopping into one by myself.



But I felt like there should've been disco music playing on the inside. I imagine this is how the movie "Tron" would've looked if it was set in medieval times. Disco carriages aside, this was all visually awesome and a wonderful way to celebrate the Supreme Buddha.