Magic Carpet Golf is a popular miniature golf course located in Carnelian Bay, California. With its whimsical and unique designs, it has become a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists alike. The course features 18 holes, each with its own distinct theme and challenges. From giant dinosaurs to colorful castles, players can expect a fun and imaginative experience at every turn. The vibrant and well-maintained landscaping adds to the overall enchanting atmosphere of the course. Magic Carpet Golf also offers other recreational activities such as go-karts and batting cages, making it a perfect place for families and friends to spend a day of fun and competition.
Magic Carpet Golf also offers other recreational activities such as go-karts and batting cages, making it a perfect place for families and friends to spend a day of fun and competition. The go-kart track offers adrenaline-pumping excitement, allowing visitors to race against each other and fulfill their need for speed. The batting cages, on the other hand, provide an opportunity for aspiring baseball and softball players to practice and improve their skills.
The Mirror of a Japanese Shaman Queen
Objects created by people often carry, within their very essence, some part of the spirit of the person who made or owned them. Such is especially the case with Chinese and Japanese magic mirrors. As objects, they’ve fascinated the Western mind for centuries. Circular plates made of bronze, they’re between 15 and 20 centimeters in diameter, and decorated on the back with motifs of animals, plants, or deities in low relief. Their designs, strangely, are projected when a ray of light is directed to the front, the reflecting face (in appearance, a completely smooth surface). The phenomenon was scientifically explained only a relatively short time ago, but for centuries the mirrors remained within the realm of “magic.”
That magic, and the resulting optical phenomena, (the scientific explanation of which diminishes none of their marvelous qualities), accounts for the mirror known as “Himiko’s mirror” and perhaps gives it an even more astounding quality. A recent scientific experiment performed with a replica of the ancient bronze mirror in the National Museum of Kyoto revealed that the original, specifically, may have been used as a magic mirror to conjure images of mountain magicians and divine beasts during solar rituals.
The mirror was unearthed at the Higashinomiya Tomb in Aichi, Japan and belongs to a category of mirrors known as sankakubuchi shinjukyo (that is, “mirrors with triangular borders and decorated with animals”). This one is associated with the queen, Himiko, a former ruler whose shamanic powers have survived history as myths and legends. Himiko ruled the kingdom of Yamatai in the third century C.E. and this was concluded because some of the mirrors found within the tomb are inscribed with the year 239, at the time when a Chinese emperor, according to some Chinese chronicles, is said to have given 100 bronze mirrors to the shaman queen. (Such gifts were used as a medium of exchange among allied nobles.)
Strangely, Queen Himiko doesn’t appear in many Japanese historical documents. Rather, it’s in a Chinese chronicle known as the Records of the Three Kingdoms where the oldest and most complete mention of this fascinating character is to be found. The records, compiled in about 290 C.E., provide one of the most reliable historical texts about these Chinese dynasties. The account of the exchange of gifts does not, however, indicate where the kingdom of Yamatai may have been. It said to have been an empire which controlled some 30 kingdoms on what are, today, the islands of Japan.
Recent discoveries regarding this piece are deeply relevant because they allow us to rethink the very history of Japanese magic mirrors and their many uses. Among these is their possible use as objects of worship in rites dedicated to solar deities. Such precious mirrors, only recently known in the West, are frequently found within excavations carried out at ancient burial mounds and it’s believed that they were placed in rows such that they projected multiple images. Research also suggests that so-called “Wei mirrors,” a subcategory of Japanese magic mirrors in clearly Chinese styles, were made by artisans born in China and who left their country to take refuge within the Japanese archipelago.
Even knowing nothing of the history of those who made such mirrors, nor to whom they belonged, Chinese mirrors continue to fascinate us with their magic, one that surpasses the optical phenomena they produce. Himiko’s mirror embodies something else: the story of a fascinating character of whom little is known, the essence of a shaman queen who once ruled some 50 Japanese kingdoms.
You’ve probably seen the scene in The Mummy (1999) when they first enter the treasure store. Rachel Weisz’s character moves a mirror and it reflects sunlight from outside. Soon, a sequence of mirrors lights up the entire chamber.
The facility also has a snack bar where visitors can grab a quick bite or refreshment between rounds. It is a convenient option for those who want to take a break from the game and regain their energy before continuing to play. Moreover, Magic Carpet Golf is known for its friendly and welcoming staff. They are always ready to assist and ensure that everyone has a memorable experience. From providing golf clubs and balls to offering helpful tips and encouragement, the staff contributes to a positive and enjoyable atmosphere. Overall, Magic Carpet Golf in Carnelian Bay is a place where people of all ages can escape reality and enter a world of fantasy and fun. Whether you are a seasoned golfer or a novice, this mini-golf course promises an entertaining adventure for everyone..
Reviews for "Exploring the Enchantment: Magic Carpet Golf in Carnelian Bay"
1. John - 2/5 stars: I was really disappointed with my experience at Magic Carpet Golf Carnelian Bay. The course was poorly maintained, with many of the obstacles broken or falling apart. The staff seemed disinterested and were not very helpful. The pricing was also much higher than other mini golf courses in the area, and I didn't feel like I got my money's worth. Overall, I would not recommend this place to anyone looking for a fun mini golf experience.
2. Sarah - 1/5 stars: My family and I had a terrible time at Magic Carpet Golf Carnelian Bay. The course was extremely crowded, and we had to wait for long periods of time to play each hole. The whole place felt dirty and neglected, with trash scattered around the course. The staff was unfriendly and seemed more interested in chatting amongst themselves than helping customers. Save yourself the disappointment and go somewhere else for mini golf.
3. Alex - 2/5 stars: I had high hopes for Magic Carpet Golf Carnelian Bay, but unfortunately, it fell short of my expectations. The course itself was in poor condition, with peeling paint and broken obstacles. The layout also felt uninspired and lacked creativity. The staff was slow and inattentive, making the overall experience quite frustrating. I would not recommend this mini golf course if you're looking for a fun and well-maintained place to play.