Hi, @slowwalker! A very peaceful meditative walk... I believe you are right and that it is probably to ready one for the temple.
The Japanese IV is much bigger than what I am used to seeing, especially the trunk. It is huge. After passing that the road becomes much more friendly and easy to pass.
I'm sure that you were surprised when you came up on woman who appeared to be peeing. Is it a normal thing for a pillar key to be preceding a temple? I have actually never been to the Orient and it is unfamiliar to me, but it's always a pleasure to learn new things about this wonderful world.
I hope you enjoyed visiting the temple and that you found peace in your soul.