Campaign gallery
JPEN
In Autumn 1993, the Central Japan Railway Company started this campaign ahead of the 1,200th anniversary of Heian Sento (the transfer of Japan's capital to Kyoto). The campaign has released posters with Kyoto landmarks in each season. Here are some of the posters that we selected to share with you in reverse chronological order.※Viewing schedule, etc., are those at the time of submission. Please check latest information through the website, etc.
2024
2024 autumn
Just a little off the main Kyoto grid, experience the autumn leaves that enthralled the people of the Heian period.
Uji was developed well before the capital was established in the Kyoto basin. Blessed with beautiful scenery centering on the Uji River, it was also a place where many Heian era aristocrats had vacation homes. Byodoin was as well was originally Uji-dono, the villa of Fujiwara no Michinaga, a statesman in Heian times. However, it wasn’t long before signs of unrest appeared in society, with natural disasters, civil war, the burning of temples and shrines, and epidemics. Finally, in the year 1052, 25 years after Michinaga’s death, in the first year of the “Latter Days of the Law” when it was believed that the Buddha's teachings would no longer be properly transmitted, his eldest son Yorimichi decided to renovate the temple and changed its name to Byodoin. With his nearly 3-meter-high seated statue of Amitabha Tathagata and the surrounding “Worshipping Bodhisattvas on Clouds” statues, it may have been his wish to ease the anxieties of human hearts by embodying the state of paradise in this world. Photo shows Byodoin Hou-ou-do (Phoenix Hall). The Worshipping Bodhisattvas on Clouds statues are at the Byodoin Museum Hoshokan. Byodoin Temple/116 Uji-renge, Uji City, Kyoto Prefecture/ Get off at Uji Station on the JR Nara Line from Kyoto Station.
2023
Autumn
Early summer
2022
Autumn
Summer
2020
Early spring
2019
Mid-autumn
Early summer
Spring
2018
Mid-autumn
Spring
2017
Mid-autumn
Spring
2016
Autumn
Summer
Spring
2015
20th
Autumn
Summer
Early summer
Spring
2014
Mid-autumn
Summer
Early summer
Spring
2013
Winter
Mid-autumn
Summer
Early summer
Spring
2012
Winter
Mid-autumn
Summer
Early summer
Spring
2011
Winter
Mid-autumn
Summer
Early summer
Spring
2010
Winter
Mid-autumn
Summer
Early summer
Spring
2009
Winter
Mid-autumn
Early autumn
Summer
Early summer
Spring
Early spring
2008
Winter
Mid-autumn
Early autumn
Summer
Early summer
Spring
Early spring
2007
Winter
Mid-autumn
Early autumn
Summer
Early summer
Spring
Early spring
2006
Mid-autumn
Early autumn
Summer
Early summer
Spring
Early spring
2005
Mid-autumn
Early autumn
Spring
2004
Winter
Mid-autumn
Summer
Early summer
Spring
2003
Winter
Summer
Spring
2002
Mid-autumn
Summer
Spring
2001
Winter
Mid-autumn
Summer
Early summer
Spring
2000
Winter
Mid-autumn
Summer
Spring
1999
Winter
Mid-autumn
Summer
Spring
1998
Winter
Mid-autumn
Summer
Early summer
Spring
1997
Winter
Mid-autumn
Summer
Early summer
Spring
1996
Winter
Mid-autumn
Early autumn
Summer
Early summer
Spring
1995
Winter
Mid-autumn
Summer
Spring
1994
Winter
Mid-autumn
Summer
Spring
1993
Winter
Mid-autumn
2024 autumn
Just a little off the main Kyoto grid, experience the autumn leaves that enthralled the people of the Heian period.
Uji was developed well before the capital was established in the Kyoto basin. Blessed with beautiful scenery centering on the Uji River, it was also a place where many Heian era aristocrats had vacation homes. Byodoin was as well was originally Uji-dono, the villa of Fujiwara no Michinaga, a statesman in Heian times. However, it wasn’t long before signs of unrest appeared in society, with natural disasters, civil war, the burning of temples and shrines, and epidemics. Finally, in the year 1052, 25 years after Michinaga’s death, in the first year of the “Latter Days of the Law” when it was believed that the Buddha's teachings would no longer be properly transmitted, his eldest son Yorimichi decided to renovate the temple and changed its name to Byodoin. With his nearly 3-meter-high seated statue of Amitabha Tathagata and the surrounding “Worshipping Bodhisattvas on Clouds” statues, it may have been his wish to ease the anxieties of human hearts by embodying the state of paradise in this world. Photo shows Byodoin Hou-ou-do (Phoenix Hall). The Worshipping Bodhisattvas on Clouds statues are at the Byodoin Museum Hoshokan. Byodoin Temple/116 Uji-renge, Uji City, Kyoto Prefecture/ Get off at Uji Station on the JR Nara Line from Kyoto Station.
2024 Early summer
If I’d never come here, I think
tomorrow would still look the same as before.
tomorrow would still look the same as before.
This photo shows Rengeji Temple in Sakyo-ku, Kyoto. The temple is famous for its autumn foliage, but visiting it while the leaves are green makes you realize that even the ancient capital city has always relied on new life to refine it and keep it alive. This allows it to undergo renewal year after year while never losing its serene spots and peaceful moments.
Is this because the city has seen such sadness, suffering, and upheaval that it understands the importance of bringing richness to ordinary, everyday life?
The old city can be a bit intimidating. But it can also be so sweet. That’s what’s so intriguing.
Is this because the city has seen such sadness, suffering, and upheaval that it understands the importance of bringing richness to ordinary, everyday life?
The old city can be a bit intimidating. But it can also be so sweet. That’s what’s so intriguing.
2023 Autumn
I put a question to people in Kyoto for their ‘Best 3 places to view autumn leaves.’
They answered the question through their facial expressions.
“I'm afraid I can’t narrow it down to just three as there are so many.”
They answered the question through their facial expressions.
“I'm afraid I can’t narrow it down to just three as there are so many.”
This town offers an infinite number of places to enjoy autumn leaves. Depending on the season, time of day, and your sensibility, you can find a variety of different landscapes. How many trips can one make to Kyoto in autumn just to visit the numerous temples and shrines around the Higashiyam area? This is ‘Nanzen-ji Temple,’ the headquarters of the Nanzen-ji branch of the Rinzai sect in the Okazaki area of Kyoto. Featuring national treasures like the “Hojo” and important cultural properties such as the “Sanmon,” along with a number of gardens and sliding screen paintings by Tanyu KANO, the entire precinct of Nanzen-ji has been designated as a national historic site. The scenery of the autumn leaves has been carefully calculated and maintained to match the temple’s surroundings magnificently. I am convinced that culture emerges where nature and history splendidly blend together. Nanzen-ji/Nanzen-ji Fukuchi-cho, Sakyo Ward/Get off at Keage Station on the Tozai Subway Line and walk for approx. 10 minutes.
Photographed in November 2022. Presentation enhancements have been applied for advertising purposes.
Photographed in November 2022. Presentation enhancements have been applied for advertising purposes.
2023 Autumn
I put a question to people in Kyoto for their ‘Best 3 places to view autumn leaves.’
They answered the question through their facial expressions.
“I'm afraid I can’t narrow it down to just three as there are so many.”
They answered the question through their facial expressions.
“I'm afraid I can’t narrow it down to just three as there are so many.”
This town offers an infinite number of places to enjoy autumn leaves. Depending on the season, time of day, and your sensibility, you can find a variety of different landscapes. How many trips can one make to Kyoto in autumn just to visit the numerous temples and shrines around the Higashiyam area? This is ‘Nanzen-ji Temple,’ the headquarters of the Nanzen-ji branch of the Rinzai sect in the Okazaki area of Kyoto. Featuring national treasures like the “Hojo” and important cultural properties such as the “Sanmon,” along with a number of gardens and sliding screen paintings by Tanyu KANO, the entire precinct of Nanzen-ji has been designated as a national historic site. The scenery of the autumn leaves has been carefully calculated and maintained to match the temple’s surroundings magnificently. I am convinced that culture emerges where nature and history splendidly blend together. Nanzen-ji/Nanzen-ji Fukuchi-cho, Sakyo Ward/Get off at Keage Station on the Tozai Subway Line and walk for approx. 10 minutes.
Photographed in November 2022. Presentation enhancements have been applied for advertising purposes.
Photographed in November 2022. Presentation enhancements have been applied for advertising purposes.
2023 Early summer
"Why are there six Buddha statues emerging from the mouth?
Why is the robe so shabby?
In this town, even the time spent searching for those answers becomes a ‘journey.’
Why is the robe so shabby?
In this town, even the time spent searching for those answers becomes a ‘journey.’
The Standing Statue of Priest Kuya/Stored at Rokuharamitsu-ji Temple.: Created by Yasukatsu, the fourth son of Unkei, during the Kamakura period, approximately 250 years after the passing of Priest Kuya. Even if you know Kuya from school textbooks, your impression will evolve when you look upon the real thing and learn about Kuya’s humanity. Kuya was involved in social projects such as the construction of roads, bridges, and temples while visiting various provinces reciting the nenbutsu in the mid-Heian period. It is said that he gave away what he obtained through religious mendicancy without regard for himself, continuously providing for the poor and the sick. This is the image of him walking through the streets of Kyoto reciting the nenbutsu to soothe souls during a time when many died of a widespread epidemic, and he looks as if he was stamping out the plague. The small Buddha statutes emerging from his mouth. The legend of Kuya, when he recited the six-character mantra ‘Namu Amida, Butsu,’ each character of the mantra was transformed into six statutes of Amida Buddha, has been beautifully depicted. Rokuharamitsu-ji/Gojo-dori Yamato-oji-agaru, Higashi-iru, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City
Photographed in April 2023. Presentation enhancements have been applied for advertising purposes.
Photographed in April 2023. Presentation enhancements have been applied for advertising purposes.
2022 Autumn
This year, many people will probably say, “I couldn’t wait for autumn to come.” Just as I couldn’t.
I can talk endlessly once I start to talk about autumn in Kyoto. It will bring many stories by just making autumn foliage as its gate, and it is certainly what we can expect from the 1,200 year capital of Japan. For example, there are Takao, Makinoo and Toganoo, located within one hour by bus from the city of Kyoto in the direction of northwest and where the contrast between the deep green of Kitayama ceder and the clear stream is splendid. You may recognize a Japanese-style design in which the nature is made up in a painting and you may come to know episodes of the great genius Kukai in front of the diverse and majestic great nature. You must find “autumn foliate” snuggled up to your feelings of this year. The photo shows Jingoji, Takao-cho, Umegahata, Ukyo-ku/From Kyoto Station, take the JR Bus for “Takao, Toganoo, Shuzan” or for “Takao, Toganoo” and get off at “Takao” bus stop.
2022 Summer
When a person says “It’s hot” every time they open their mouth, I wonder what scenery is ideal for that person.
From now on, the green will deepen the colors day by day in Kyoto. You encounter large shadows and wind paths made by old and splendid shrines and temples here and there in town. They are as if arranged based on the calculations for the severe summer. For example, this is a historical Zen temple opened by a Zen priest, Eisai, 800 years ago. It has no one extra thing, and I recognize its deathly quiet space as bracing, cool, and even gentle. It makes me realize that I shouldn’t express the historical building simply with the word, dignity. In addition, it is good to look for spring water spots in town in this season or to go to a mountain valley departing from the grid pattern. Historical festivals and events are waiting for you. The photo shows Kenninji in Higashiyama-ku (Yamatooji-dori Shijo-sagaru, Komatsucho.) / Go on foot from Gion-shijo station.
2020 Early spring
Rock Garden Version
Why haven’t I come here before during this season? I felt so in front of the rock garden.
Many people choose this season, just before the cherry blossom season starts, in order to slowly meet in person “Japanese aesthetics” dotted in Kyoto. It is said that the deep and crisp air works rather positively for a “spiritual journey.” For example, there are rock gardens. Why don’t you go around the rock garden of a sub-temple of Daitoku-ji, a Zen temple, located in a corner of an area having a beautiful name, Murasakino, since the time of the relocation of the capital city to the Heian-kyo, and where many distinguished priests, imperial family members, warlords and tea masters have been associated with since its establishment? The beauty, interestingness and messages of each of the sub-temples varies. The photo shows Daisen-in. Its Hojo South Garden, a national treasure, made with white sand and sand mounds. Perhaps it draws boundless expanse of the ocean and the spiritual state of quietude. Putting aside difficult things, such as wabi-sabi, Japan’s minimalism, the aesthetics of subtraction, let’s start facing rock gardens while taking some time. It all comes down to that. Daitoku-ji, Kita-ku: Very close to “Daitokuji-mae” bus stop of the City Bus.
2019 Mid-autumn
Autumn is All About Dusk
Autumn is all about dusk.
There is no reason that I quickly return after this.
There is no reason that I quickly return after this.
I think about that time when she evaluated that autumn is all about dusk. While calmness is returning, nights are still long. Its entrance corresponds to dusk. The western sky turns a variety of crimson as if it is corresponding to the colored leaves of the trees. While listening to the sound of insects in the garden, people must have enjoyed reading and writing quietly. Maybe they had no other option. Eventually, the Reiwa era started. The colors of the tress are splendid, remaining the same as 1,000 years ago. But It’s not the same as back then. Rich time is wafting in town. After the gate of the temple of autumn leaves is closed, how about walking around town in the grid pattern? There are a number of town cultural aspects you can find from this time. It is hard to find a reason to quickly return home during autumn in Kyoto in our time. The photo shows Shin nyo-do, Jodojishin'nyo-cho, Sakyo-ku. Take the City Bus to “Kinrin Shako-mae” bus stop and go on foot.
2019 Mid-autumn
Autumn is All About Dusk
Autumn is all about dusk.
There is no reason that I quickly return after this.
There is no reason that I quickly return after this.
I think about that time when she evaluated that autumn is all about dusk. While calmness is returning, nights are still long. Its entrance corresponds to dusk. The western sky turns a variety of crimson as if it is corresponding to the colored leaves of the trees. While listening to the sound of insects in the garden, people must have enjoyed reading and writing quietly. Maybe they had no other option. Eventually, the Reiwa era started. The colors of the tress are splendid, remaining the same as 1,000 years ago. But It’s not the same as back then. Rich time is wafting in town. After the gate of the temple of autumn leaves is closed, how about walking around town in the grid pattern? There are a number of town cultural aspects you can find from this time. It is hard to find a reason to quickly return home during autumn in Kyoto in our time. The photo shows Shin nyo-do, Jodojishin'nyo-cho, Sakyo-ku. Take the City Bus to “Kinrin Shako-mae” bus stop and go on foot.
2019 Early summer
Jojakko-ji/Moss and Fresh Green Version
Moss watches over fresh green. Both “the past and the present” lived together beautifully.
Cherry blossoms ended and the next season will finally come. There are not a few Kyoto connoisseurs who choose early summer if they go around Sagano area. The reason is the “green.” They say that it is because they can feel how the colors and smells of the ancient city give it a new lease on life. I see that a variety of plants compete with their various green colors in early summer in Kyoto. It makes me feel overwhelmed when wondering how many colors of green this town has, and I even feel as if I will eventually develop the ability to distinguish the subtle differences in the color. In particular, it is the best time to look around moss gardens. The key element of the garden’s design is “moss”, and it is understandable that its beauty and spirituality are attracting worldwide attention. “Moss” represents the wabi-sabi of ancient times, and “fresh green,” represents the life of today. Ancient and modern times line up. Kyoto in early summer is luxurious. The photo shows Jojakko-ji, Ogura-cho, Saga Ogura-yama, Ukyo-ku. Take the City Bus or Kyoto Bus and get off at “Saga Shogakko-mae” bus stop and go on foot.
2019 Early summer
Gio-ji/Moss and Fresh Green Version
Moss watches over fresh green. Both “the past and the present” lived together beautifully.
Cherry blossoms ended and the next season will finally come. There are not a few Kyoto connoisseurs who choose early summer if they go around Sagano area. The reason is the “green.” They say that it is because they can feel how the colors and smells of the ancient city give it a new lease on life. I see that a variety of plants compete with their various green colors in early summer in Kyoto. It makes me feel overwhelmed when wondering how many colors of green this town has, and I even feel as if I will eventually develop the ability to distinguish the subtle differences in the color. In particular, it is the best time to look around moss gardens. The key element of the garden’s design is “moss”, and it is understandable that its beauty and spirituality are attracting worldwide attention. “Moss” represents the wabi-sabi of ancient times, and “fresh green,” represents the life of today. Ancient and modern times line up. Kyoto in early summer is luxurious. The photo shows Gio-ji, Saga Toriimoto, Ukyo-ku. Take the City Bus or Kyoto Bus and get off at “Saga Shakado-mae” bus stop and go on foot.
2019 Spring
Spring is All About Dawn Version
Spring is all about dawn. “The Pillow Book” was the best guide book.
The joy of spring is not limited to cherry blossoms. It includes the water temperature, budding, and above all else the light. When the sun starts rising in the darkness and making the sky lighter, the sky soon will be dyed purple. It is that spring is all about dawn. The person who discovered and wrote down the attractiveness of the short time and space of spring made by beautiful light in early morning was Sei Shonagon, who lived in Kyoto in the Heian period. It was the time when she was probably younger than 30. Her testimonies have remained living in the hearts of the people of this country for more than 1,000 years. So, why don’t we confirm them? There are ways to do so, such as standing on a bridge crossing over the Kamo-gawa River, climbing Funaokayama and Narabigaoka Hill, and viewing Osawa Pond from the mausoleum of Emperor Saga. Thankfully, even today we can view the spring sky the same as that of 1,000 years ago if we come to this town.
2018 Mid-autumn
I heard a traveler who has continued to go to Kyoto for 25 years saying, “Humans are not so different from those that lived 1,200 years ago.”
Ikkyu-ji and its formal name is “Shuon-an Ikkyū-ji” A high priest Ikkyu Sojun, who is a model of “Ikkyu san” known for witty stories and became the chief priest of Daitoku-ji, spent time here until he was 88 years old as his final home. Both sides of the entrance path after the main gate are dyed bright red with autumn leaves in fall. Transfer to Kintetsu Kyoto Line at JR Kyoto Station, get off at “Shin-Tanabe Station,” and then take a bus and go on foot.
2018 Spring
Thank you for leaving a great spring. We hope that we also can become a glorious past.
Kajuji in Yamashina-ku: If you go from the Chokushi-mon gate and walk along the cherry blossoms shining beautifully against the white walls on the entrance path, your sight range will increase. It is said that the ice sheet of Himuro-ike Pond in front of you was presented to the Imperial court on January 2nd every year. In the first place, it was deeply related to the imperial household and the Fujiwara clan, and it was established by Emperor Daigo in 900 as the family temple of his mother Ishi. In the Konjaku Monogatari, the story of the romance between Fujiwara Takafuji and Ishi’s mother Resshi is told, and the stage of the story is around here. Perhaps because of the story, the cherry blossoms looks tender. Go to “Yamashina Station” on the JR from Kyoto station, transfer to Tozai Line to “Ono Station” and walk for 6 minutes. You can also take the Yamashina Express Bus from Kyoto Station to “Kajuji Kitadecho” bus stop and walk for 3 minutes.
2017 Mid-autumn
Maybe humans talk too much. How eloquent the silent scenery is!
Toji (Kyoo-Gokoku-ji) in Minami-ku: Despite several disasters, it still retains the appearance it had at the time of its founding and it feels as though it is still in the time of the Heian-kyo Capital. It is no wonder that many people feel relaxed when they come here. Appreciate the picturesque autumn with the five-storied pagoda and autumn leaves reflected in Hyotan-ike Pond and the numerous Buddhist statues designated as national treasures and important cultural properties. It’s a luxurious time. 15 minutes walk from JR Kyoto Station. This fall, there will be special openings of the first layer of the five-storied pagoda, Kanchiin, Homotsukan, etc., and light up of the precincts (scheduled from October 28 to December 10).
2017 Spring
It was the cherry blossom tree that prompted me to look upward when I was spending time on my small screen on the palm of my hand.
Nijo castle in Nakagyo-ku: About 400 cherry trees of about 50 varieties are on the castle grounds. It is like a picture book of cherry blossoms. From Ieyasu, the first shogun, to Yoshinobu, the 15th and last shogun, this was the stage for the history of the Tokugawa Shogunate in Kyoto, both in politics and in art and culture. Don’t miss the architecture, paintings, and sculptures of the palace and Karamon Gate, which remind us of the various TV dramas unfolded. Take the Subway Karasuma Line from JR Kyoto Station to “Karasuma Oike Station,” transfer to Subway Tozai Line and get off at “Nijojo-mae Station.” Light up from March 24 (Friday) to April 16 (Sunday)
2016 Autumn
I am glad to have borrowed the outside scenery, thank you. I acknowledged that the word “shakkei (use of natural scenery as the backgrounds” represents the spirit.
Tenryu-ji in Ukyo-ku: It is said that a priest and gardener Soseki Muso urged Ashikaga Takauji to establish this temple. He already passed the age of 70 when he completed landscaping of this 2,000 square meter Sogen-chi Garden. It is a tour de force demonstrating the experience of the artist, and it uses a technique of “shakkei” and incorporates Arashiyama and Kameyama, which are superlative scenic spots, as if they were part of the garden. It is said that it greatly influenced landscaping in the later years. Take JR Sanin Main Line (Sagano Line) from JR Kyoto Station to “Saga-Arashiyama Station” and walk for about 13 minutes. The Hatto (Zen lecture hall), famous for the Cloud-Dragon Painting on its ceiling, is open every day during the autumn special admission period. Period: From September 3, 2016 (Saturday) to December 4 (Sunday) (excluding from October 28 (Friday) to 30 (Sunday))
2016 Summer
“Kacho-zu” by Kano Eitoku, a national treasure at Juko-in (Daitoku-ji)/Let's Go to Kyoto, now!
What is in front of me is perhaps a panoramic screen consisted of 16 panels?
I am on the spot of the painting on fusumas. Currently, national treasures are visiting their old home.
I am on the spot of the painting on fusumas. Currently, national treasures are visiting their old home.
A special viewing of national treasures at Daitoku-ji and Juko-in is now continuing, including “Kacho-zu” by Kano Eitoku, one of the finest examples of fusuma-e (sliding door painting) of “Kacho-zu”, depicting Japanese seasons in an energetic and narrative manner on 16 sliding doors. Juko-in is usually not opened to the general public, but marking the 450th anniversary of its founding, it is specially being opened. At this occasion, paintings on 46 sliding doors (all are national treasures) by Kano Eitoku and his father Kano Shoei return to their home for the first time in 9 years from Kyoto National Museum and are opened to the general public all at once. For detailed information as to how to access and opening days, please check the website of “Yes, let’s go to Kyoto!”
2016 Spring
Kyoto Imperial Palace and Kyoto Gyoen National Garden
It is “a spring in the pure center” of the most popular town in the world!
Kyoto Imperial Palace and Kyoto Gyoen National Garden in Kamigyo-ku: Kyoto Imperial Palace was a residence of emperors for 500 years from the Nanbokucho period. Surrounding it is the Kyoto Gyoen National Garden. It is located in the center of the city in a lush green area of about 650,000 ㎡, and was lined with more than 200 residences of the imperial family and court nobles before the capital was relocated to Tokyo. The Garden is dotted with about 50,000 trees, including the weeping cherry trees at the Konoe Residence site shown in the photo, and the ruins of former residences, and these provide elegant scenery in every season. Take Subway Karasuma Line from JR Kyoto Station and get off at “Imadegawa Station.” You can enter the Kyoto Gyoen National Garden freely at any time. Kyoto Imperial Palace is open to the general public from April 6 to April 10. It can also be visited during other times (prior application required).
2015 Spring
Maruyama Park/20th anniversary
I said “thank you,” and I feel it was the first time that I mentioned this while looking up at cherry blossoms.
2015 Spring
I may not be able to live in countries having no spring season.
2015 Spring
These are late-blooming cherries. The people of Kyoto say that they can’t fulfill their “spring obligation” unless they see them.
2015 Spring
The more spectacular the cherry blossoms look, the more I think about the long winter time they endured.
2015 Spring
The Philosopher’s Walk/20th anniversary
These days, it seems unpopular to think deeply about things. I wonder if it is ok. This question just popped up on the Philosopher’s Walk.
2015 Spring
I don’t know why. I just wanted to spend this spring as a time to meet in person with one cherry blossom tree intently.
2015 Autumn
People learn a lot from history and experiencing beautiful scenery. Well, I am going to be very busy this autumn.
Kitano Tenmangu Shrine in Kamigyo-ku: Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, which enshrines Michizane Sugawara , is famous for plum blossoms, but not to be forgotten are the autumn leaves at the historic “Odoi mound.” Odoi mound is the mound built by Hideyoshi Toyotomi as the boundary between inside and outside of Heian-kyo and a part of it remains here, and the view of the red and yellow trees reflected on the surface of the Kamiya-gawa River is breathtaking. Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s Kitano Ocha-no-Yu (grand tea ceremony), in which more than 1,000 teahouses are said to have stood within the precincts of the temple, was also held in autumn. The main shrine and the worship hall in the photo are both national treasures. In addition, it houses a number of national treasures and important cultural properties. Take the City Bus No. 50 or 101 from JR Kyoto Station to “Kitano Tenmangu-mae” bus stop, from which it is very close.
2015 Summer
Imagine the future from places of the past. This town is made in such a way.
Shimogamo Shrine (Kamomioya-Shrine) in Sakyo-ku: The origin of the shrine is said to date back as far as the A.D. era, and remains from the Jomon period have been excavated in the Tadasunomori forest where the shrine grounds are located. The forests where ancient vegetation remains are said to have surface temperatures about 10 degrees lower than outside. It is filled with tense air and said to have been a relaxation spot for people since long ago. This year is the year of Shikinen-Sengu ceremony once in 21 years. The roof of the shrine pavilion was re-thatched and the decorative metal fittings and lacquer parts were repaired, and the shrine was newly reborn. The ancient shrine actually is living in the present. Take the City Bus No. 4 or 205 from JR Kyoto Station to “Shimogamo Jinja-mae” bus stop and walk for 3 minutes.
2015 Early summer
In early summer, I open my “Autumn Guidebook.” It is because picturesque spots for the viewing of colorful autumn foliage means fresh green sites.
Eikando in Sakyo-ku: Kyoto in early summer, with mountains on three sides of the city emitting a variety of greens and their scents. In this season, the sights of autumn leaves are, in other words, the sights of green maple leaves. For example, there is Eikando. From near the main gate, go to the pond and then to Tahoto (pagoda). Superb sights of green maple leaves are scattered through the precincts of the temple. The ancient temple, which was founded well over 1,000 years ago, is covered by fresh green, and it reminds us that the temple is still active. Take the City Bus No. 5 from JR Kyoto Station to “Nanzenji Eikando-michi” bus stop and walk for 3 minutes.
2015 Early summer
In early summer, I open my “Autumn Guidebook.” It is because picturesque spots for the viewing of colorful autumn foliage means fresh green sites.
Tofukuji in Higashiyama-ku: Kyoto in early summer, with mountains on three sides of the city emitting a variety of greens and their scents. In this season, the sights of autumn leaves are, in other words, the sights of green maple leaves. For example, there is Tofukuji. The photo shows the “Sengyokukan” valley viewed from the Gaun-kyo Bridge. Gaun-kyo Bridge is one of the “three famous bridges of Tofukuji” along with Tsuten-kyo Bridge and Engetsu-kyo Bridge. It is filled with fresh energies different from those of autumn, and it reminds us that the ancient temple, which was founded nearly 780 years ago, is still active. Take JR Nara Line from JR Kyoto Station to “Tofukuji Station” and walk for about 10 minutes.
2015 Spring
Why don’t we go out and meet picturesque cherry blossoms? It will also help us to live this year positively.
Garden of Heian Jingu Shrine: The Heian Jingu Shrine has an image of bright vermilion, but if you enter there you feel the elegant atmosphere of the shrine garden where its buildings given by the Kyoto Imperial Palace and flowers of the four seasons blend. Junichiro Tanizaki wrote in his novel “Sasame-Yuki,” “I don’t feel I have seen flowers unless they are flowers in Kyoto,” and for him especially flowers here must have been so special that he expressed in a splendid manner the red weeping cherry blossoms covering the sky as “crimson clouds.” Take the Subway Karasuma Line from JR Kyoto Station to “Karasuma Oike Station,” transfer to the Tozai Line to “Higashiyama Station” and walk for about 10 minutes.
2014 Mid-autumn
It is a surprise to know that autumn foliage becomes topics of space and life.
Genko-an in Kita-ku: The area is Takagamine, located in the northwest of an area around Daitoku-ji called Murasakino. In the darkness of the main hall, two windows, lined side by side and cut into the wall, are strikingly impressive. The round window is called “satori no mado (window of realization)” and it is said to represent the mind of Zen and Entsu and further the macrocosmos, and on the other hand, the square window is called “mayoi no mado (Window of Delusion)” and it is said to represent the life of a human who struggles with life, aging, and sickness. These windows were for me to talk to my own heart. Take the Subway Karasuma Line from JR Kyoto Station to “Kitaoji Station,” transfer to the City Bus North 1 to “Takagamine Genkoan-mae” bus stop and walk for about 1 minute. In this area, there are many other sights of autumn foliage.
2014 Summer
I feel that the travel in this summer will someday help the family live strong.
Manpuku-ji in Uji-shi: It was founded by Zen master Ingen who came from China with a little over 20 disciples in 1654. He was already at the age of 63. It is said that the high priests of China’s Ming Dynasty were greeted with enthusiasm wherever they went. What the Zen masters brought to Japan are wide-ranging, including arts, medicine, architecture, music, printing, sencha green tea and Fucha ryori cuisine, and are said to have influenced the culture of the Edo period. The architecture and Buddhist statues are faithful to the Zen style of the Ming Dynasty, and the monks recite the sutras in Ming Dynasty pronunciation, so that even today, “once you pass through the gate, you feel like you are in China.” Take JR Nara Line from JR Kyoto Station to “Obaku Station” and walk for about 5 minutes. Advance reservations are required to experience zazen.
2014 Early summer
It seems that the smell of the city of Kyoto may be brought from this mountain.
Enryakuji, Mt. Hiei: In the 7th year of the Enryaku era, Dengyo Daishi Saicho Shonin, who opened Mt. Hiei at full scale, which had been considered a sacred mountain since ancient times, established an educational system in which people were confined to the mountain for 12 years to devote themselves to ascetic practice. It produced such prominent monks in the history of Japanese Buddhism as Honen, Eisai, Dogen, Shinran, and Nichiren. The vast precincts of the temple in the mountain are divided into three sections: The east pagoda, west pagoda, and Yokawa, and “Enryakuji” is the generic name for about 150 halls and pagodas located here. The photo shows Konponnyo-hoto in Yokawa. Take the Kyoto Bus C6 or the Keihan Bus at the bus terminal by Karasuma Exit of JR Kyoto Station, get off at “Enryakuji Bus Center” bus stop, and then take the Hieizan Shuttle Bus to “Yokawa” bus stop and walk for about 5 minutes.
2014 Spring
I came to notice in the middle of wandering around. There are places and stories that I do not know about yet. It makes me feel happy.
Jurinji in Nishikyo-ku: Its foundation dates back to as far as the early Heian period, and is said to be where the poet Ariwara no Narihira lived in seclusion in his later years. What is breathtaking here is the weeping cherry tree that stands over the “Sampofukan-no-niwa” garden, which can be viewed and enjoyed in three different ways: Standing, sitting, or lying down. It is called “Narihira Zakura” or “Tengai Zakura (canopy cherry blossom)” as it covers the garden like a canopy. Surprisingly, the tree is said to be about 200 years old. Transfer to JR Tokaido Main Line at JR Kyoto Station to “Mukomachi Station,” and take the Hankyu Bus No. 66 to “Oshio” bus stop, from which it is very close. Spring in Nishiyama is luxurious with Yoshimine Temple, Shobo-ji, Oharano-jinja Shrine, Shouji-ji, etc.
2013 Winter
Miyagawa-cho
“What would you be doing now if you hadn’t come here?” “I bet I would be napping by the kotatsu.”
Miyagawa-cho in Higashiyama-ku: One of Kyoto’s five hanamachi, or geisha districts. It is said that it started as a teahouse that entertained guests who gathered to watch kabuki performances at Shijo Kawara. It is also said that many actors lived here. The alleys dotted with the dimness of the old townscape are sparsely populated even during the daytime, giving the area an exceptionally serene atmosphere. Eventually, as dusk falls, lanterns light up the entrances of the teahouses, and the town transforms into a quiet, peaceful place. Take the City Bus No. 4, 17 or 205 from JR Kyoto Station to “Kawaramachi-matsubara” bus stop and go on foot. The Hanamachi, with its New Year’s Eve and New Year’s decorations, is even more Kyoto-like than usual.
2013 Mid-autumn
Saying that I am going to see “the autumn leaves of this year,” I was going to also see “this year’s me.”
Nanzen-ji and Tenjuan in Sakyo-ku: At its peak in the Muromachi period, Nanzen-ji Temple had about 60 sub-temples within its precincts of about 100,000 tsubo, and it has maintained its high temple status. After repeated war damage and reconstruction, there are now several sub-temples standing as if they are nestling against each other. Especially in this season, not to be missed is Tenjuan-in near the sanmon gate. There are its autumn leaves scattered in the refined karesansui (dry landscape) garden and reflected in the pond of the kaiyushiki (circuit style) garden. It is attractive that you can experience the two contrasting autumn foliate. From Kyoto Station, take the City Bus No. 5 to “Nanzenji Eikando-michi” bus stop or No. 100 to “Higashitennocho” bus stop and walk for about 10 minutes. Light-up is scheduled to be carried out also this year.
2013 Summer
It is that what raises children during summer is not limited to the blue sky and the sun.
Iwashimizu Hachimangu in Yawata City: This shrine is located in the deep pristine green of Otokoyama, which overlooks a magnificent landscape of the confluence of Katsura-gawa River, Uji-gawa River and Kizu-gawa River. Since its foundation in the Heian period, the shrine has been visited by emperors and retired emperors, and has been revered by samurai families such as the Minamoto and Ashikaga clans, and during the Edo period, it was crowded with visitors from all over the country. Take JR Nara Line from JR Kyoto Station to “Tofukuji Station,” transfer to Keihan Main Line to “Yawatashi Station,” transfer to Otokoyama Cable Railway to “Otokoyamasanjo Station” and walk for about 5 minutes. It is one of the most prestigious shrines in Japan, and is called the second most important shrine in Japan after Ise Jingu Shrine, which conducts its Shikinen-Sengu ceremony this year.
2013 Early summer
I was surrounded by newly born green. It seems like old temples also start from the ground up at this time of the year.
Jizo-in in Nishikyo-ku: Yoriyuki Hosokawa, a warrior for the Ashikaga clan for three generations from Takauji to Yoshimitu during the turbulent Northern and Southern Dynasties. While struggling with warfare and the intrigues of power within the shogunate, he studied Zen. Eventually, he was given a kanrei position in the Muromachi shogunate, and in that year, he established a temple here as if he was searching for a place of peace. The approach to the temple is all green with bamboo groves and blue maple trees combined with moss underfoot. Take the Kyoto City Bus No. 73 or 83 from JR Kyoto Station to “Kokedera Temple, Suzumushidera Temple” bus stop and walk for 3 minutes. There are many temples with beautiful greenery in the vicinity, and it is a walking course in early summer.
2013 Spring
In which town and in which area is your favorite cherry blossom tree? Oh, you seem not to be able to make up your mind. Feel free to take your time.
Myoshin-ji and Taizō-in in Ukyo-ku: The area around here is called Hanazono, where noblemen of the Heian period had their villas and planted many flowers and grass, and a Cloistered Emperor who loved the area so much that he converted a detached palace here into a Zen temple during the Muromachi period was bestowed the name of Cloistered Emperor Hanazono. The Zen temple is Myoshin-ji. Of the more than 40 pagodas located within the precincts of the temple of about 130,000 tsubo, Taizo-in is one of the oldest temples and is famous for its “Motonobu-no-Niwa” garden and “Yokoen” garden. Cherry blossoms in the photo are at the entrance of “Yokoen.” It is a masterful garden, strongly and gently composed with seasonal flowers, waterfalls, ponds and rocks. Take JR Sanin Main Line (Sagano Line) from JR Kyoto Station to “Hanazono Station” and walk for about 8 minutes. It is also famous for Josetsu’s masterpiece, “Hyonen-zu” (painting of catching Japanese catfish with bottle gourd).
2012 Winter
“I wish I could live in this town.” “You say that every time you come here.”
Yasaka-dori Road in Higashiyama-ku: The five-storied pagoda seen at the end of the stone pavement is the Yasaka Pagoda standing in the precincts of Hokanji Temple. Yasaka Dori is the entrance road to this area, leading to Kiyomizu Dori, Sannen (Sannei) zaka, and Ninen (Ninei) zaka, and is an essential part of a Higashiyama stroll. Experiencing the tension felt by the cool air is good, as is the bustle of the year-end and New Year’s festivities. Just walking slowly through the hills and alleys itself is an excellent way to travel. To get to Yasaka Tower, take the City Bus No. 100 or 206 from JR Kyoto Station to “Kiyomizu-michi” bus stop and walk for about 5 minutes. This area used to be a hanamachi, or geisha district, before the Meiji era. Even today, the townscape retains vestiges of those days.
2012 Mid-autumn
Autumn foliage is merely the start of your travel.
Nison-in in Ukyo-ku: This is the eastern foot of Mt. Ogura in Saga Arashiyama. After passing the main gate, the entrance path called “Koyo no Baba” (horse racetrack of red leaves) is stretched straightly, and further the bright red autumn leaves peeking out from the white walls lead us to the precincts beyond. Two principal images enshrined in the main hall. This is the origin of Nison-in’s name. “Hakken no Shaka Nyorai” and “Raigei no Amida Nyorai” These two images are believed to bring peace in this life and the next. Take JR Sanin Main Line (Sagano Line) from JR Kyoto Station to “Saga-Arashiyama Station” and walk for about 15 minutes. There are numerous temples with autumn foliage within 1 km of here.
2012 Summer
Please grow quickly. No, take time to grow. In summer, they are growing while confusing their parents.
Fushimi Inari Taisha in Fushimi-ku: The main hall of the shrine is on the base of the most southern mountain of the 36 Peaks of the Higashiyama Mountains. After passing the famous Senbon Torii, the real “mountain tour” will actually start. It takes about 2 hours and the distance is about 4 km. “Pilgrimage to Inari” on the first day of the Horse is described as “enviable” in “The Pillow Book” written by Sei Shonagon, so it is likely that pilgrimages to the peaks have been an interest of people since the Heian period. Take JR Nara Line from JR Kyoto Station and get off at “Inari Station.” The tower gate is very close on foot. The vermilion-lacquered torii gates that stand in a row along the entire entrance path on the mountain are said to number about 10,000 at present.
2012 Early summer
There are many things we should think and feel before summer approaches.
Rengeji in Sakyo-ku: It is located in Kamitakano, upstream of the Takano-gawa River, the source of the Kamo-gawa River, and the road passing by in front of the temple gate is Wakasa Kaido Road, alias “Saba-kaido Road.” In this place connecting Kaga and Kyoto, Chikayoshi Imaeda, an old retainer of the Kaga clan, moved the temple in Rakuchu to this location and rebuilt it. The chisen kanshoushiki (pond appreciation) garden, which is said to have depicted Jodo (the Pure Land), can be viewed from the Shoin (the study hall), with green maple leaves, green moss, and eventually the sara tree blooming all over its branches. Take the Kyoto City Bus No. 17 or 18 from JR Kyoto Station to “Kanbashi” bus stop and walk for 1 minute. It is also a cultural heritage, with the cooperation of religious and literary figures active in Kyoto and other parts of Japan in its construction.
2012 Spring
Look! The rock garden is smiling.
Spring has arrived in the rock garden, which always has a difficult face.
Spring has arrived in the rock garden, which always has a difficult face.
Ryoanji in Ukyo-ku: The year of creation, the author, and his intentions are unknown. Other than some moss, there is not a single tree and no grass, only white sand and 15 rocks. Although the stone garden is usually discussed quietly and philosophically, it is said that Hideyoshi stopped by here on his way back from hawking and was in a good mood when he saw this magnificent cherry blossom and composed a waka poem. Indeed, the weeping cherry blossoms peeking out from behind the oiled clay wall are a truly striking contrast to the stoic garden. Take the City Bus No. 50 from JR Kyoto Station to “Ritsumeikan Daigaku-mae” bus stop and walk for 7 minutes. Walking through the temple gate, you can walk the entrance path lined with cherry trees. Kyoyochi Pond, where grass grows and flowers bloom beautifully. Ryoanji is also a temple at its best in spring.
2011 Winter
Ninenzaka
I came to notice that the Kyoto dialect I hear also serves as one scenery itself.
Ninenzaka in Higashiyama-ku: It is a slope leading to Kiyomizu-dera, Yasaka-no-to Pagoda, Kodai-ji , Yasaka Shrine, and Maruyama Park. The area, with its elegant stone steps and stone pavement, was developed around the time of the establishment of the Heian-kyo Capital, and developed as the temple town of Kiyomizu-dera. After climbing up Ninenzaka, you will reach Yasaka road (Yasaka-dori). How about walking around the town with a stone monument inscribed with the name of the hill as your guide this winter? Take the City Bus No. 100 or 206 from JR Kyoto Station to “Kiyomizu-michi” bus stop and walk about 8 minutes. Sannenzaka, Ninenzaka and Ichinenzaka are also written as Sanneizaka, Nineizaka and Ichinenzaka, and it is interesting to investigate the various theories of the reasons.
2011 Mid-autumn
We can exchange greetings, saying “great autumn.” That’s all it takes to make me happy.
Bishamon-do in Yamashina-ku: In the past, it was founded before the capital was transferred to Heijo. The temple was repeatedly destroyed and rebuilt due to warfare, and by the early Edo period, it flourished as a prestigious monzeki temple in this area. Yamashina is a key location along the Tokaido road. Daimyo (feudal lords) from various regions who came and went along the road would stop here before entering the capital of Kyoto, which was separated by a single mountain. Perhaps the magnificent autumn leaves gently welcomed them in the fall. Take JR Tokaido Main Line at JR Kyoto Station to “Yamashina Station” and walk for about 20 minutes. Nearby Zuishinin, Kajuji, Oishi Shrine, and Iwaya Temple in the neighborhood are also spots for viewing autumn leaves.
2011 Summer
Higashi Honganji and Nishi Honganji
This town’s past exists for our future.
The district of Honganji in Shimogyo-ku: Two Hongangi temples in east and west in Kyoto Both are head temples of the Jodo Shinshu sect, founded by Shinran Shonin, who lived during the turbulent late Heian and Kamakura periods. “Ohigashi-san” and “Onishi-san.” The people of Kyoto fondly call them so. This year marks the 750th onki of Shinran Shonin’s death. Parents and children sit side by side in the large Mikage-do hall, which is over 700 tatami mats in size, under a large roof with more than 100,000 roof tiles. It will be a memorable family experience. A 7 minute walk to Higashi Honganji from JR Kyoto Station. To Nishi Hongwanji, take the City Bus No. 9, 28 or 75 and get off at “Nishihonganji-mae” bus stop. The both are relatively close to Kyoto Station.
2011 Early summer
Light green, pale blue-green, bluish-yellow, yellowish grass green...I found “Japan’s green colors.”
Kifune Shrine in Sakyo-ku: Legend has it that it was founded in the 5th century. It has been a “rain-making” shrine since ancient times. The story of how the shrine became famous as a “shrine for praying for love” began with Izumi Shikibu’s story. Her husband lost his heart to another woman, and she was distressed and made a pilgrimage to Kifune to pray for their reconciliation. It is said that her wish was granted and their marriage returned to a harmonious one. At this time, she expressed her sadness at the sight of a firefly flying over the Mitarashi River in a poem, and some people say that the poem is one of the greatest among the poems of Izumi Shikibu. Take the City Bus No. 4 or 17 from JR Kyoto Station to “Demachiyanagi Station” bus stop, transfer to Kurama Line of the Eizan Electric Railway to “Kibuneguchi Station” and walk for 30 minutes.
2011 Early summer
Light green, pale blue-green, bluish-yellow, yellowish grass green...I found “Japan’s green colors.”
Jojakko-Ji in Ukyo-ku: It was built by Nisshin, a high priest of the Nichiren sect, in the Azuchi-Momoyama period. The Sagano area is one of the best sights of autumn leaves, in other words, green maple leaves. Since the Heian period, it have been a scenic spot where court nobles and poets have built villas and hermitages. Among them, this is located on the slope of the Mt. Ogura referred to in “Ogura Hyakunin Isshu.” Because Nisshin himself was a poet, he might have chosen this location, which is said to have a villa of Fujiwara no Teika in the Heian period. Take JR Sanin Main Line (Sagano Line) from JR Kyoto Station to “Saga-Arashiyama Station” and walk for about 15 minutes. Rakushisha, Nison-in, Gion-ji, Takiguchi-dera, and Adashino Nenbutsu-ji are Sagano walking courses.
2011 Spring
I don’t know why. I just wanted to spend this spring as a time to meet in person with one cherry blossom tree intently.
Toji (Kyoo-Gokoku-ji) in Minami-ku: It is a state-sponsored temple built as part of city planning at about the same time as the construction of Heian-kyo. Kukai was entrusted with the construction of Toji Temple, which was under construction. Through him, it became the fundamental center of Shingon Esoteric Buddhism. The current locations and scales of the buildings are said to be the same as when they were first built. Five years ago, a cherry tree was transplanted to this place that has retained more than 1,200 years of history. With Japan’s tallest wooden five-storied pagoda in the background, the “Fujizakura” cherry tree is about 120 years old. As a result of the meeting of the two eras, the landscape of our time was born. It takes about 15 minutes on foot from JR Kyoto Station. Toji Temple is a treasure house of esoteric Buddhist art. Don’t miss seeing Kondo and the Kodo hall (Lecture Hall).
2010 Winter
People say that my smile and my mother’s smile are beginning to resemble each other while we continue to visit Kyoto.
Chion-in in Higashiyama-ku: During the first three Tokugawa generations, the area of this temple was expanded to a vast area and there were numerous temples. Many people must have visited here on school trips. However, when I visited the temple again and listened to the story of Honen Shonin’s decision at the end of the Heian period to leave the huge organization at the age of 43 to pursue the path of Buddhism he believed in, I was able to stand here with a renewed feeling. Take the City Bus No. 206 from JR Kyoto Station to “Chionin-mae” bus stop and walk for about 7 minutes. On New Year’s Eve, the famous temple bell will ring, and the year 2011 will mark the 800th onki, or anniversary, of the death of Honen Shonin.
2010 Mid-autumn
Its beyond a joke to finish my one year only with “hot” and “cold.”
Konkai-Komyoji in Sakyo-ku: First it was a small Nenbutsu dojo which Honen first opened after he departed from Mount Hiei in the late Heian period. Eventually, it became the main temple of the Jodo sect. It is said that at the end of the Edo period it was used as a dormitory for the Kyoto governor, Aizu feudal lord Katamori Matsudaira, and a group of about 1,000 warriors, and that Kondo Isamu of the Shinsengumi and others also often visited. In the east of the precincts of the temple, there are as many as 10,000 gravestones, including those of 352 Aizu clan members who died in Kyoto. The bright red sunset from here to the west is truly the Western Pure Land. It is magnificent along with the autumn leaves. Take the City Bus No. 5 or 100 from JR Kyoto Station to “Higashitennocho” bus stop and walk for about 10 minutes. The townspeople affectionately call it “Kurodani-san.”
2010 Summer
I did homework with my children for the “Kiyomizu stage.” There are such preparations.
Kiyomizu-dera in Higashiyama-ku: It is approximately 18 meters above the sea and on the slope of Mt. Otowa at an elevation of 242 meters. A stage made of hinoki cypress that stretches out from the cliff. This is where the phrase in common use “jumping off the Kiyomizu stage” was born. The 48 pillars supporting the stage were built without using any nails but by piercing rails. The temple’s festival days were described in the Pillow Book as a good example of “rollicking events.” It seems to have been a popular spot since the Heian period. Take the City Bus No. 100 or 206 from JR Kyoto Station, get off at “Gojozaka” or “Kiyomizu-michi” bus stop and walk for about 10 minutes. Tainai meguri, or a tour for going through the pitch-dark inside of the basement of the Zuigu-do Hall, holding on to the Juzu beads along the wall. The cool air there is recommended to experience in summer.
2010 Early summer
Its long-established but it’s not old. It is made in a way to receive a new vital power from the green every year.
Koto-in in Kita-ku: Green bamboo, fresh green maple, yellow-green moss. After passing through the gate, walking along the stone-paved pathway and gazing at the fresh green garden from the edge of the guest house, I encountered the variety of Japanese green colors and the superb sense to incorporate them based on calculations. Here is one of the sub-temples of Daitoku-ji. It was built by Tadaoki Hosokawa, and he was a warrior who lived through the Warring States, Momoyama, and Edo periods, and was also an excellent tea master who was said to be Sen no Rikyu’s best disciple. He is truly impressive. Take the City Bus No. 205 or 206 from JR Kyoto Station to “Kenkun Jinja-mae” bus stop and walk for about 5 minutes. You can enjoy the matcha green tea with sweets while looking at the garden.
2010 Early summer
Its long-established but it’s not old. It is made in a way to receive a new vital power from the green every year.
Gio-ji in Ukyo-ku: Deep in Sagano, where we arrived in search of fresh greenery. The premises were small, with only a thatched hermitage, a grove of maple trees, moss, and a stream. This was where the Shirabyoshi dancer Gio, who fell out of favor with Taira no Kiyomori, her sister Gijo, and their mother spent the rest of their lives. Touching the green autumn leaves and the freshness of moss shining like velvet after absorbing the light of early summer, I feel that a new time is passing even though this is the ancient stage of “The Tale of the Heike.” Take JR Sanin Main Line (Sagano Line) from JR Kyoto Station to “Saga-Arashiyama Station” and walk for about 20 minutes. The Gion chapter is the first volume of the “Tale of the Heike.”
2010 Spring
These are late-blooming cherries. The people of Kyoto say that they can’t fulfill their “spring obligation” unless they see them.
Ninna-ji in Ukyo-ku: For approximately 1,000 years until the end of the Edo period, the temple was headed by a chief priest served by the imperial family for generations as monzeki, and was also called the Omuro Gosho, a prestigious temple. On the other hand, this area has been a cherry blossom garden for ordinary people since the Edo period. According to a book written at that time, people visited the temple three times in spring when Someiyoshino cherry trees, weeping cherry trees, and Omuro-zakura cherry trees were in full bloom. Among them, the late-blooming Omuro-zakura trees, more than 200 of which are planted there, are rare sato zakura (Japanese garden cherry trees) and are shrub tress with a height of about 3 meters and with branches extending 20 to 30 cm above the ground. It is also known as “weeping cherry” because it bids farewell to spring. Take the City Bus No. 26 or JR Bus from JR Kyoto Station to “Omuro Ninnaji” bus stop, from which it is very close. “Haru no giri” is from “Old Capital” by Yasunari Kawabata.
2009 Winter
I wanted to bring her here with me. Both the mother and the daughter are thinking in this way.
Tatsumi-bashi bridge, Gion in Higashiyama-ku: There are not a few Kyoto connoisseurs and say that the essence of Kyoto townscape is in winter. Not only temples and shrines but also the scenery of the town itself is even more fascinating in the tense-filled atmosphere. Enjoying warm and delicious food on a chilly night in Kyoto is a luxury and possible only in this season. This area, labeled “Hanamikoji-dori Shinbashi-nishiiru,” is a preservation district for groups of historic buildings. Take the City Bus No. 100 or 206 from JR Kyoto Station to “Gion” bus stop and walk for about 7 minutes. How about taking a walk along the Shirakawa River and Takase River from here? Both going up and down is good.
2009 Mid-autumn
Autumn in 2009. Where in Japanese history are we walking now?
Komyoji in Nagaokakyo City: Naozane KUMAGAI was the most powerful man on Yoritomo's side who took the head of Taira no Atsumori at the Battle of Ichinotani, which is also famous in “The Tale of the Heike.” Because of his sense of shame and his view of impermanence, he became a priest and studied under Honen. He opened a temple for reciting Nenbutsu in this area. The entrance path to the temple in autumn leaves, where you will encounter a monument with the phrase “Jodomon koko ni hajimaru teru koyo” (The Pure Land Gate begins here, illuminated by autumn leaves). The paving stones were brought from the nearby Katsura River in the Genroku era by local residents. Take JR Tokaido Main Line at JR Kyoto Station to “Nagaokakyo Station.” Transfer to Hankyu Bus No. 20 or 22 to “Komyoji” bus stop and walk for about 3 minutes. (The photo shows an image at around November.)
2009 Early autumn
The harvest moon. Its a tasteful word. I mentioned it for the first time in a long time.
Sennyuji in Higashiyama-ku: It reads Sen nyu ji. This beautiful sounding temple is located at the foot of Mount Tsukinowasan, the southernmost of the 36 peaks of the Higashiyama mountains. The ancient people are said to have given the name “Tsukinowa” to the beautiful reflection of the moon rising from Higashiyama on the Kamo River here. Although it is just a little way from Higashioji, it is free from the hustle and bustle of the town. The gates of the temple were closed for more than 700 years until after the war, and this is probably why the tranquil atmosphere of the temple is still preserved today. Take the City Bus No. 208 from JR Kyoto Station to “Sennyuji-michi” bus stop and walk for 7 minutes. Tofukuji to the west, Sanjusangendo and Chishakuin to the north. It is highly recommended to take a stroll in early autumn. The photo was taken in October 2008.
2009 Summer
In front of the history of 1,200 years, the difference in age between my parent and I suddenly meant nothing.
Tofukuji in Higashiyama-ku: It is said that it took 19 years from 1236 to complete the construction of the largest temple in Kyoto at that time. The name of the temple also suggests the desire for the temple to be as large as Todaiji Temple in Nara and as grand as Kofukuji Temple. I see that the temple buildings were ingeniously arranged on a hillside and valley of Higashiyama, and its vast and varied precincts are indeed awe inspiring. Especially, the national treasure Sanmon Gate is notable. In upstairs rooms, there are statutes of Shaka Nyorai, Juroku Raka, or the sixteen arhats, and other Buddhas, and the extreme colors of the walls applied at that time. Visitors can also enjoy a panoramic view of the city of Kyoto from here. Take JR Nara Line from JR Kyoto Station to “Tofukuji Station” and walk for about 10 minutes.
2009 Early summer
I noticed the smell of the brand-new season. There was a “good relationship between people and green.”
Honen-in in Sakyo-ku, not far from Ginkakuji, Honen-in is located east of the Philosopher’s Walk. Passing through the thatched gate, you will see a lush space unique to early summer, created by the contrast between the white of the “White Sand Dan” or sand hills and the blue maple leaves. The old history and the life force to live in the present time are united in this town. It seems that autumn alone cannot tell the charm of this town’s maple trees. Take the Kyoto City Bus No. 5 to “Jodoji” bus stop from JR Kyoto Station and walk for 10 minutes. From here you can visit Eikando, Nanzen-ji, and Chion-in. It is a great place to stroll.
2009 Spring
The more spectacular the cherry blossoms look, the more I think about the long winter time they endured.
Daigoji in Fushimi-ku: “Daigo no Hanami (Daigo flower viewing),” a major event that has left its mark on history. Hideyoshi began preparations immediately after the beginning of the year in 1598, and repaired the five-storied pagoda. It is said that he planted 700 new cherry trees, built teahouses and gardens, and prepared kimonos for 1,300 female guests. The day was sunny. There were 131 waka poems written, such as “It is regrettable to leave” and “I will never forget.” It sounded like a day when everyone felt truly happy. Take Subway Tozai Line to “Daigo Station” and walk for 13 minutes. The entire mountain, including Kami (upper)-Daigo and Shimo (lower)-Daigo, is the temple. 150,000 cultural assets including esoteric art. It is well worth seeing.
2009 Early spring
In this season, this town seems to consist of people thinking,“The best of health to all of you.”
Kitano Tenmangu Shrine in Kamigyo-ku: The park of about 20,000 tsubo has 2,000 white and red ume trees of about 50 varieties. Ume plum blossoms can be enjoyed from the beginning of the year until late March, and it is the Tenjin-san in Kitano, where Michizane Sugawara is enshrined as the “god of learning.” During the Heian period, it was a place of recreation for the noblemen of the Imperial Court. It is said that it became a popular spot for the common people during the Kamakura and Muromachi periods. It was here that Hideyoshi’s “Kitano Grand Tea Ceremony,” in which more than 1,000 seats are said to have been arranged, was held and Izumo no Okuni performed his first Kabuki dance. Take the Kyoto City Bus from JR Kyoto Station to “Kitano Tenmangu-mae” bus stop, from which it is very close. The bustle of those days seems to have come down until the present day on the 25th of every month.
2008 Winter
Around Nishijin area
The way my daughter speaks now is unusual. Mother is excited in a different way than normal.
Around Nishijin in Kamigyo-ku: Weaving began in Kyoto around the 5th century. Weavers were eventually brought together in this area of the Heian-kyo after the transfer of capital to the Heian-kyo, and weavers who were gathered here have been involved in the production of twill, brocade, and other high-end fabrics ever since. The name “Nishijin” comes from the fact that the headquarters of Sozen Yamana’s western army was located here during the Onin War. The photo shows Daikokumachi in Nishijin. The townscape conveys the history and confidence of Kyoto's textile industry. Take the City Bus from JR Kyoto Station to “Imadegawa Jofukuji” bus stop and walk for 4 minutes. Walking from the nearby Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, a stroll through the Nishijin area is also recommended.
2008 Mid-autumn
I happened to meet a Buddha in the middle of the autumn leaves. I will quickly turn off my smartphone. Sorry.
Sanzen-in in Ohara, Sakyo-ku: This temple is described by a writer Yasushi Inoue as “a jewel box of the Orient.” It was originally a small hall built 1,200 years ago on Mt.Hiei. The highlight is the national treasure Amida Sanzon-zo at Ojo Gokuraku-in Hall. Instead of sitting solidly, it bends forward a little and looks as if it is trying to stand up. I heard that it is an attitude of gentleness, saying to those of us who are suffering in distress, “It’s okay just the way it is. We will come and get you.” Take the Kyoto City Bus No. 17 or 18 from JR Kyoto Station to “Ohara” bus stop and walk for 10 minutes. If you go a little further, you will reach the “Otonashi-no-Taki” waterfall.
2008 Early autumn
Something I postponed, saying “After it gets cool, I will think about,” was brought to my mind when I came here.
Shourin in Ohara, Sakyo-ku: Ohara, a hidden village of Heian nobles, is also the home of Nenbutsu (Buddhist prayer) and Shomyo (Buddhist chanting). Ryonin, who perfected a statement, which he brought from China, in Ohara, Japan. His voice is so beautiful that birds and river fish are said to have listened to it, and the Otonashi-no-Taki waterfall, located upstream of the Ritsusen river, was named after the sound of the water that stopped when his chanting was heard. These are Sanzen-in housing a national treasure statue of Amida-butsu; Hosen-in famous for its picture-frame garden; Jikko-in, a lodging house for Shomyo trainee monks; Raigo-in built by Ryonin; Jakko-in where Kenreimonin lived out her life; and Shorinin in the pictured. All are famous temples with their own quaint atmosphere. Take the Kyoto City Bus No. 17 or 18 from JR Kyoto Station and get off at “Ohara” bus stop. The season for strolling has finally arrived.
2008 Summer
It shouldn’t be a summer that ends just by completing a picture diary book.
Rather, parents are also tested as to whether they can create “summer memories” that children will remember when they grow up.
Rather, parents are also tested as to whether they can create “summer memories” that children will remember when they grow up.
Enryakuji Konpon Chudo (main hall), Mt. Hiei: Take JR Kosei Line from JR Kyoto Station to “Hiei San Sakamoto Station”, transfer to Sakamoto Cable to “Enryakuji Station” and walk for 10 minutes. If you want to visit from the city of Kyoto, take a cable railway and a rope way from “Yase-Hieizanguchi Station.”
2008 Early summer
In my case, I learn a lot more from the “history of flowers” in Kyoto than from the history of disputes.
Byodoin in Uji City: In 1052, when the era of no salvation, so-called “the latter day of the law,” began, Yorimichi Fujiwara converted a villa he had inherited from his father into a temple and built the Amida Hall (Phoenix Hall) in the following year. This was the paradise imagined by the Heian nobles. On the wisteria trellis on the north side of the pond, there are spectacular wisteria trees that are more than 250 years old and long enough to touch the ground in full bloom. Take JR Nara Line from JR Kyoto Station to “Uji Station” and walk for about 10 minutes. It has long been said, “When you can no longer believe in paradise, you should come here.” It is indeed a convincing scenery.
2008 Early summer
It takes a little effort to “see pretty things.” I feel so when watching the news on TV at home.
Kajuji in Yamashina-ku: Water lilies bloom at “Himuro-ike Pond.” The name comes from the fact that during the Heian period, the ice that was spread here was offered to the court. It is a monzeki temple and the story regarding the foundation of the temple described in Konjaku Monogatari. In summer, the splendid lotus flowers will emerge from the mud. If flowers are a reflection of the character of a temple, then perhaps these flowers would be appropriate for a place where successive generations of Hoshinno lived in seclusion, away from the world. Take Municipal Subway Tozai Line to “Ono Station” and walk for 6 minutes. Kakitsubata (rabbit-ear irises), kishobu (yellow irises), hanashobu (Japanese irises), and lotuses for summer. It is a temple that you can enjoy all the time.
2008 Spring
Petals fell on my shoulder. It was a cherry blossom viewing unrealizable by any large-screen display.
Nanzen-ji in Sakyo-ku: There are about 800 cherry trees along the canal in Okazaki to the west, and a 600 meter long cherry blossom tunnel on the incline to the south. If you head north, you will find rows of cherry blossom trees along the Philosopher’s Walk. Here is the central point of cherry blossom stroll in Higashiyama. The traveler, who has been walking around looking up at the flowers all this time, sees the words “Kan Kyakka (see your underfoot)” written on the tag. Look at your underfoot. See the true nature of things. Cherry blossoms in Kyoto is not just about your saying, “Ah, beautiful.” Take Municipal Subway Tozai Line to “Keage Station” and walk for 10 minutes. The view from the sanmon gate is, indeed, spectacular!
2008 Early spring
After the New year comes, the time called “shoshun (early spring)” soon comes, and look, we are already looking for “spring.”
Yasaka Shrine in Gion, Higashiyama-ku: There are said to be about 2,000 temples and shrines in Kyoto. Various events are held during the year-end and New Year's holidays, and the town comes alive with sense of tension and excitement as people gather together with their wishes in mind. Soon, a new season begins to appear and disappear like sewing the cool air. The town is becoming more gorgeous day by day, and I can feel that spring is just around the corner! Take the City Bus No. 100 or 206 from JR Kyoto Station to “Gion” bus stop, from which it is very close. News of ume plum blossoms also arrives here and there at Gion Yasaka Shrine, famous for the “okera-mode” (New Year’s Eve visit to the shrine).
2007 Winter
Nishihanamikoji
There are many things still left to learn, aren’t there? My mother looked so delighted.
My mother was different from usual and continued to walk ahead. I wonder if it was due to the town’s winter air, which is not familiar to us. “You are so young.” “What did you say?” I was right to have asked her to come together with me.
My mother was different from usual and continued to walk ahead. I wonder if it was due to the town’s winter air, which is not familiar to us. “You are so young.” “What did you say?” I was right to have asked her to come together with me.
Nishihanamikoji Take the Kyoto City Bus No. 100 or 206 from JR Kyoto Station to “Gion” bus stop and walk for 4 minutes.
2007 Mid-autumn
Beautiful scenery is created by humans. I wonder why I am startled by this matter of course after 1,000 years have passed?
In the beginning of the Heian era, this space plan was created by the people who gathered information from overseas, read books, listened to others, and carefully and repeatedly elaborated on plans.
In the beginning of the Heian era, this space plan was created by the people who gathered information from overseas, read books, listened to others, and carefully and repeatedly elaborated on plans.
Daikakuji in Sagano, Ukyo-ku: It was originally Saga-in, a detached palace built by Emperor Saga in the early Heian period. The emperor, who was in his twenties but was already one of the most scholarly and cultured men of his time, frequently invited Kukai to discuss Tang culture, and held poetry parties and boat rides to relieve the fatigue of his political duties. After he gave up his position in his thirties, stating, “I am a man without rank or title, and I visit mountains and water, and go on excursions,” it seems that he loved this place even more. There are many things to see in this vast site, including the elegant temple buildings and the wall paintings that are representative of Japanese art. Please take your time. Take the City Bus No. 28 or Kyoto Bus No. 71 from JR Kyoto Station to “Daikakuji” bus stop, from which it is very close. Osawa Pond, viewed from the wet edge of Godaido, is spectacular.
2007 Early autumn
This town said to me, as we overcame the summer heat, “Good job.”
Jojakko-ji in Sagano, Ukyo-ku: The area is surrounded by a series of temples of different tastes, including Otagi Nenbutsu-ji, Gion-ji, Nison-in, and Daikakuji, and was praised by Sei Shonagon in The Pillow Book as Sagano for the fields, and Mt. Ogura for the mountains. Many thatched huts and hideouts were built by the noblemen of the Imperial Court. A court poet Fujiwara no Teika was one of them. The so-called “Ogura Hyakunin Isshu” (one hundred waka poems) is a selection of 100 famous poems from ancient times and the selection was made at a villa on the foot of Mt. Ogura. It is said that the ruins of Teika's villa are located here. The temple seems to be hidden from view, but from the top of the temple grounds, one can see the city of Kyoto and even Mt. Daimonji. Take JR Sanin Main Line (Sagano Line) to “Saga-Arashiyama Station” and walk for about 15 minutes. After the Daimonji bonfire, Kyoto finally heads into the next season.
2007 Summer
We all were surprised in the same ways and nodded at same things.
In this way, we become a family during this summer.
In this way, we become a family during this summer.
Unryu-zu (painting of dragon and clouds) by Tanyu KANO in the Hatto (Lecture Hall) of Myoshin-ji in Ukyo-ku: Take JR Sanin Main Line (Sagano Line) from JR Kyoto Station to “Hanazono Station” and walk for about 5 minutes.
2007 Early summer
What fits most for the blue sky shouldn’t be high-rise buildings.
I wonder how many seasons this town is hiding between spring and summer?
I wonder how many seasons this town is hiding between spring and summer?
Toji (Kyoo-Gokoku-ji) in Minami-ku: It is a place where Kukai, a giant in the history of Japanese Buddhist thought, devoted himself to its construction as a center for the spread of Shingon esoteric Buddhism. Since then, for 1,200 years, the temple was rebuilt on the same site each time it was involved in warfare, and it has continued to see the long history of Kyoto here. Over the lotus is the famous five-storied pagoda. When it was completed, nearly 50 years had already passed after the death of Kukai and nearly 90 years after the transfer of the capital to Heian-kyo. The time that flows slowly here may have been left to us by Kukai as an esoteric Buddhist teaching. 15 minutes walk from JR Kyoto Station. It is a treasure house of esoteric Buddhist art worth seeing, including the statue of Yakushi Sanzon in the Kodo Hall (Lecture Hall) and the three-dimensional mandala in the lecture hall.
2007 Early summer
When it comes to Kyoto, you are just fine in that suit.
I wonder how many seasons this town is hiding between spring and summer?
I wonder how many seasons this town is hiding between spring and summer?
Chishakuin in Higashiyama-ku: It is a traditional temple of learning where many monks gather for training. The Negoroji in Kishu, where the school building “Chishakuin” was located, was burned down by Hideyoshi, who feared the expansion of its power, and it was moved to this place in Kyoto. After that,Ieyasu gave Chishakuin exceptional patronage in order to remove the Toyotomi colors from the Higashiyama area. The treasures of Shoun-ji, the “most luxurious temple in the capital” and made ultra luxurious by Hideyoshi, were granted. The granted ones are the series of wall paintings by the group of Tohaku Hasegawa, which are said to have been “the most unusual brushstrokes of his lifetime and unparalleled in the world,” and this magnificent garden. The water has even penetrated under the floor of the Daishoin (large study hall), making it feel as if you are on the water. Take the Kyoto City Bus No. 100, 206 or 208 from JR Kyoto Station to “Higashiyama Nanajo” bus stop and walk for 3 minutes.
2007 Early summer
In Kyoto, there is no time to rest even after cherry blossoms end.
I wonder how many seasons this town is hiding between spring and summer?
I wonder how many seasons this town is hiding between spring and summer?
Jonangu Shrine in Fushimi-ku: It was a shrine that protected the south of Heian-kyo. Eventually, nobles started to build villas, and Emperor Shirakawa built the Toba Detached Palace around this shrine. The gorgeousness at around the time when the palatial houses were built one after another was described as “as if the capital had moved here.” Surrounding the shrine pavilions is the Raku-suien Garden with an area of about 10,000 tsubo and it is a “Flower Garden of the Tale of Genji” consisting of five gardens with different tastes. More than 100 varieties of flowers described in the Tale of Genji written by Murasaki Shikibu adorn this place. Following wisteria, Japanese lilies, deutzias, irises, dayflowers, indigos, moonflowers...they bloom without interruption all year round. Take Kintetsu Kyoto Line at JR Kyoto Station to “Takeda Station” and walk for 15 minutes.
2007 Spring
Kamigamo Jinja (Kamowakeikazuchi Jinja)
I may not be able to live in countries having no spring season.
Kamigamo in Kita-ku: Among the areas in the Kyoto basin, people have started to live here early around here. There is Kamigamo Shrine, the oldest shrine in Kyoto, older than Heian-kyo. In the background is Koyama mountain, which is believed to be the place where the gods descended. It is said that “Kamo (賀茂)/Kamo (鴨)” derives from the word for “god,” and its origins can be traced back to the world of mythology. On both sides of the entrance path that stretches in a straight line from the first torii gate to the second torii gate are 150-year-old red double weeping cherry trees, horse-riding cherry trees, and whipping cherry trees. Each of these cherry trees has its own history to tell. Take the City Bus No. 4 from JR Kyoto Station to “Kamigamo Jinja-mae” bus stop, from which it is very close. The photo shows the path of Nakaragi (half-tree) on the east bank of the Kamo-gawa River connecting Kamigamo Shrine and Shimogamo Shrine. In this season, it is a 800 meter tunnel made by red weeping cherry trees.
2007 Early spring
Shimogamo Shrine (Kamomioya-Shrine)
The first destination of the year’s first trip matters.
Shimogamo Shrine (Kamomioya-Shrine) in Sakyo-ku: Located at the confluence of the Takano-gawa River and the Kamo-gawa River, Tadasu no Mori forest is a vast virgin forest where old trees, some 200 to 600 years old, grow and retain the vestiges of the ancient Yamashiro Province. The entrance path traversing here is like a mountain road in the middle of town. With the clean atmosphere that lingers here, it is felt appropriate for the end of the year and the beginning of the year. The photo shows “Korin ume.” The first generation is said to have been the model for Korin Ogata’s national treasure “Red and White Plum Blossoms.” I wonder if he also had visited here often. Take the Kyoto City Bus No. 4 or 205 from JR Kyoto Station to “Shimogamo Jinja-mae” bus stop and walk for 3 minutes. It is a World Heritage Site as Kamigamo Shrine is.
2006 Mid-autumn
One year passes in a moment. It shouldn’t be like that.
What a relief... The autumn foliage in Kyoto allowed me to draw a deep breath.
What a relief... The autumn foliage in Kyoto allowed me to draw a deep breath.
Manshu-in Ichijyoji area, Sakyo-ku: One of the temples established by Saicho on Mt. Hiei was moved to this location in the middle of the Edo period, and its elegant temple hall was called “a small Katsura-rikyu (small Katsura detached palace).” It was built by Imperial Prince Yoshinao. He was the second son of Imperial Prince Hachijonomiya Toshihito, who built Katsura Rikyu. Since he is said to have been devoted to the tea ceremony, flower arrangement, calligraphy, incense ceremony, and waka poetry, the interior and exterior are full of Manshu-in's unique sense of beauty, such as the magnificent layout of the building with the autumn leaves and the attention to the designs of the rooms. Take the City Bus No. 5 to “Ichijoji Shimizucho” bus stop from JR Kyoto Station and walk for 20 minutes. Nearby are Shisendo, Shugakuin Imperial Villa and Sekizanzenin. Ideal for stroll in autumn leaves.
2006 Early autumn
It’s no fun if you come in such a rush in the season of autumn leaves.
Shisendo in Sakyo-ku: The Ichijyoji area at the foot of Mount Hiei is dotted with quaint historical spots. Shisendo is one of them. This is the hermitage where the great worrier Jozan ISHIKAWA, who was recognized for his distinguished service in the Battle of Sekigahara, lived in seclusion as a man of letters who loved poetry and calligraphy from the age of 59 to his death at the age of 90, after abandoning his military career. The garden, which is constantly decorated with a variety of plants, informs us of even the slight change of seasons from late summer to early autumn. Take the Kyoto City Bus No. 5 to “Ichijoji Sagarimatsucho” bus stop from JR Kyoto Station and walk for 5 minutes. Nearby are Kinpukuji, Enko-ji, and Manshu-in. If you go further away, you can visit Shugakuin Imperial Villa and Sekizanzenin.
2006 Summer
Hey, you should respect your father.
“Do you have anything you want to ask about? Your father studied a lot before we reached here.”
“.....”
“Fine, even if you don’t understand yet.”
I was facing in the same direction with my child. This hasn’t happened for a long time.
“Do you have anything you want to ask about? Your father studied a lot before we reached here.”
“.....”
“Fine, even if you don’t understand yet.”
I was facing in the same direction with my child. This hasn’t happened for a long time.
Sanjusangen-do (Renge-o-in) 1001 standing Thousand-armed Kannon/Take the City Bus to “Hakubutsukan Sanjusangendo-mae” bus stop in Higashiyama-ku and from the bus stop it is very close.
2006 Early summer
My son did a search for “Kyoto,” “Shoka (early summer)” and “Hana (flower)” and told me.
I wonder how many seasons this town is hiding between spring and summer?
I wonder how many seasons this town is hiding between spring and summer?
Mimuroto-ji in Uji City: In May, 20,000 azaleas and 1,000 rhododendrons bloom in the large garden of 5,000 tsubo. In June, 10,000 hydrangeas. In July, 250 pots of lotus. This is the “Flower Temple” in Uji City. It is an ancient temple founded more than 1,200 years ago. Among them, lotus is a flower that is spoken of along with the teachings of Buddha. The petals represent lostness and the receptacles represents enlightenment. So, the receptacles appear and the petals begin to fall off one by one. Take the JR Nara Line at JR Kyoto Station to “Uji Station,” and then take the Keihan Uji Bus No. 43 to “Mimuroto-ji” bus stop, from which it is very close. There are many attractions such as five Buddhist statues of important cultural assets, the burial mound at the floating bridge written in the Tale of Genji’s “Uji Jucho,” and haiku by Basho.
2006 Early summer
I looked at my schedule book and thought I could use about one day for myself.
I wonder how many seasons this town is hiding between spring and summer?
I wonder how many seasons this town is hiding between spring and summer?
Umenomiya Taisha Shrine in Ukyo-ku: Because it reminds one of a fence (kaki), the kakitsubata (rabbit-ear iris) was prized by the people of the capital as a flower that separates spring and summer. The hanashobu flowers (Japanese irises) appear by receiving baton passes from them. The flowers clustered in the shrine gardens of the old shrine remind us that there is another beautiful season between spring and summer with a different face. From late spring through summer, the Shinen Garden features relays of Kirishima azalea, kakitsubata, hanashobu, and hydrangea flowers. Take the City Bus No. 28 from JR Kyoto Station to “Umenomiya Taisha-mae” bus stop, from which it is very close. As the name suggests, this was once a vacation home for the noble, where the fragrance of plum blossoms wafts through the air.
2006 Early summer
I heard my wife’s voicemail on my smartphone, saying “Because the weather was fine, I have just come to Kyoto.”
I wonder how many seasons this town is hiding between spring and summer?
I wonder how many seasons this town is hiding between spring and summer?
Anrakuji in Sakyo-ku: It is quietly located in the Philosopher’s Walk area, which is dotted with temples such as Ginkakuji, Honen-in, Reikanji, and other temples that are typical of Kyoto. It was the stage set for a tragedy in which Princess Matsumushi and Princess Suzumushi, the daughters of Emperor Gotoba, were so fascinated by the preaching of Honen Shonin's disciples, Juren and Anraku, that they secretly entered the priesthood, which incurred the wrath of the emperor and led to the death penalties of both priests. Normally closed to the public, the garden is filled with satsuki (Japanese azalea) blossoms that beckon us in as the maples turn to fresh green. Take the City Bus No. 5 or 17 to “Kinrin Shako-mae” bus stop from JR Kyoto Station and walk for 5 minutes. Open days last year in May were May 3 to7, 20, 21, 27, and 28. You can hear the origin of the temple every 30 minutes in the main hall.
2006 Spring
I said “thank you,” and I feel it was the first time that I mentioned this while looking up at cherry blossoms.
Maruyama Park in Gion, Hiyashiyama-ku: One of the representatives of “village cherry trees” in Kyoto, which has many famous cherry blossom viewing spots both in terms of “mountain cherry trees” and “village cherry trees,” and this large higan weeping cherry tree with a height of 12ⅿ tall and 10ⅿ wide branches. People in Gion say that even though they are in their neighborhood and they see then every year, they feel something special every time they see them in full bloom. In a town where many people have been passionate about it, the cherry trees must have been carefully nurtured and protected by the town people with a hope that these trees will receive such feelings firmly. Take the Kyoto City Bus and get off at “Gion” bus stop. Within walking distance are the famous cherry blossoms along the Gion Shirakawa River.
2006 Early spring
It is about “初春 (shoshun/early spring)” and “新春 (shinshun/the New Year) you wrote down on New Year’s greeting cards.
The Gardens of Heian Jingu Shrine in Sakyo-ku: Although we tend to associate cherry blossoms with flowers in Kyoto, since the Heian period Japanese people have especially loved the fragrance of flowers of “ume (plum)”and “tachibana (mandarin orange).” In particular, ume (plum blossoms) can be found everywhere in Kyoto, and finding the colors and fragrance of the newly born spring amidst the lingering cold, one realizes that both people and flowers have begun to live the new year. The photo shows gardens of Heian Jingu Shrine. Plum trees, cherry trees, rabbit-ear irises, and Japanese irises...... over 200 types of plants are planted in this place like a flower calendar. Take the City Bus No. 5 from JR Kyoto Station to “Kyoto Kaikan Bijutukan-mae” bus stop, from which it is very close. When it comes to the number of ume trees, Kitano Tenmangu Shrine is also famous for its nearly 2,500 blooming plum trees.
2005 Mid-autumn
It seems to me that children acquire something important each summer, and adults, each autumn.
Yoshimine Temple in Nishikyo-ku: Saying, “Oh, in such a place?” you would be surprised to know that there are temples in Kyoto in autumn that are still unknown to many people, even though they have a long history. Yoshimine Temple, founded in the mid-Heian period, is one such temple. The temple was built on a mountain face by cutting the surface out because they had no choice but to choose this place for people to attain gokuraku ojo (peaceful death). Its area is 30,000 sq.meters with 100ⅿ difference in elevation. The entire precincts of the temple are a circular garden, and the scenery is gorgeous in a manner far beyond what the word “mountain temple” might imply. Get off at “Mukomachi Station,” which is 2 stations after JR Kyoto Station, and then take the Hankyu Bus No. 66 to “Yoshiminedera” bus stop and walk for 8 minutes. The 40 meter pine tree “Yuryu-no-matsu (lit. gliding dragon pine-tree)” contrasts with the fierce red autumn leaves. It is a national natural monument.
2005 Early autumn
Please feel free to drop by while out on a walk. Yoshimasa Ashikaga
Ginkaku-ji in Sakyo-ku: The blissful time of the year quietly returns to Kyoto when one thinks that autumn is gradually beginning to linger in the day. For example, one can follow the Philosopher’s Walk from Nanzen-ji to Eikando, Honen-in, and so on. The last stop is Ginkaku-ji (Higashiyama Jisho-ji). It is like breathing a sigh of relief in a house where the aesthetic sense of Yoshimasa Ashikaga is deep steeped in. It is quite a luxurious walk to enjoy in the gradation from summer to autumn. Take the City Bus No. 5 or 17 to “Ginkakuji-michi” bus stop from JR Kyoto Station and walk for 10 minutes. Or use No. 100 to “Ginkakuji-mae” and walk for 6 minutes. The sand mound in the near side of the photo is called “Muketsudai.”
2005 Spring
After cherry blossoms end, the scenery turns out to look as if like “ Water Lilies” by Monet.
Kajuji in Yamashina-ku: One of the flower temples in Kyoto is Kajuji, a monzeki temple with a history of over 1,100 years. The garden centered around the Himuro-ike Pond is the setting for the flowers. Beginning with the white plum blossoms that herald the arrival of spring, followed by the magnificent cherry blossoms, and then, in late May, the fuji (Japanese wisteria) blossoms. On the other hand, from early summer, the aquatic plants that crowd the pond bloom one after another. kakitsubata (rabbit-ear iris), water lilies, kishobu (yellow irises) and hanashobu (Japanese irises), as well as white and red lotus in summer... Following the flower calendar, here I found Kyoto, where time passes peacefully. Take JR Tokaido Main Line at JR Kyoto Station to “Yamashina Station,” transfer to Municipal Subway Tozai Line to “Ono Station” and walk for 6 minutes.
2004 Winter
The A side of Ryoanji. If you don’t know it, it’s too bad.
Rock garden, Ryoanji in Ukyo-ku: The gardener, year of creation, and purpose are also unknown. It is mysterious and simple, and is widely known abroad as a Zen garden that symbolizes the Japanese sense of beauty. There are just white sand and 15 rocks and are nothing else. What I feel from them seems to be clearly different depending on the season, the time of day, and my age at the time. Please take time to stroll the Kyoyochi Pond and the grove. No doubt that it will help. Take the City Bus No. 50 to “Ritsumeikan Daigaku-mae” bus stop from JR Kyoto Station and walk for 7 minutes.
2004 Winter
The B side of Ryoanji. If you know it, you are really cool.
Kyoyochi Pond, Ryoanji in Ukyo-ku: “Kyoyochi Pond” is less talked about than the stone garden. Over the wide and beautiful pond, you can see the temple “Daishuin,” and it is said that in the Heian period, court nobles enjoyed floating their boats on the pond. While walking here, it may be nice to move gradually from the everyday life into the “infinite world” of the stone garden. Or it may be better to calm down my head puzzled by the rock garden by looking at the pond. There is a device in place to unfold the difficult Zen mind. Take the City Bus No. 50 to “Ritsumeikan Daigaku-mae” bus stop from JR Kyoto Station and walk for 7 minutes.
2004 Mid-autumn
Even Kiyomizu-san keeps late hours a bit. That’s what autumn is for.
Kiyomizu-dera in Higashiyama-ku: The people of Kyoto affectionately call it “Kiyomizu-san.” Already about 1,000 years ago, Murasaki Shikibu and Sei Shonagon wrote about the popularity of this place. The stage is stretching out on a mountain river in the autumnal array of crimson foliage and flowers, with “Kiyomizu (clear water)” flowing below, and the town of Kyoto you find when looking up. Standing here in autumn, one is overwhelmed by this beautiful device created by the perfect beauty of nature and human skill. Take the Kyoto City Bus No. 100 or 206 to “Kiyomizu-michi” bus stop from Kyoto Station and walk for 10 minutes. Light-up this year will be from November 19 to December 12. There are Higashiyama's 36 peaks and many other temples with spectacular autumn foliage.
2004 Summer
I discovered a big summer break in a small temple. That’s what I feel happy about.
Toganoosan Kosanji in the area around Takao: It is about 30 minute walk from Jingoji. This is the mountain temple where Myoe Shonin, a holy monk of the Kamakura period, lived half his life. This was a utopia for him who wanted little, saying “I need no status, no fame, no temple building, and I just want days of contemplation and Zen meditation, feeling unity with great nature.” The photo shows Sekisui-in, a national treasure. It was also a library that collected a wide range of sacred writings and books, and was visited by many scholar monks from inside and outside the temple. It is a space that smoothly connects and integrates the inside and outside and is a masterpiece of residential architecture. I felt like sitting forever in the cool breeze. Take the JR Bus to “Toganoo” bus stop from Kyoto Station and walk for 5 minutes.
2004 Early summer
Even Kukai thought he needed “this summer in this place” for himself.
Takaosan Jingoji in Takao: I am heading to the entrance path from the Kiyotaki-gawa River, where the air is cool even in mid-summer. It is said that by going up the stone steps step by step in the tunnel of blue leaves and approaching the heaven, one can purge one's mind of worldly thoughts and dust. The area is approximately 60,000 tsubo. As one would expect from the giant steep peak of Heian Buddhism, the stage that sent out Saicho and Kukai to the world is vast. After studying cutting-edge Buddhism and returning from Tang Dynasty China, they met here for the first time and established the foundations of Shingon Buddhism. “Teaching and learning are not to be understood with the mind, but to be acquired with the body.” It was a mountain temple where the words of the genius Kukai resonated in my heart. Take the JR Bus to “Yamashirotakao” bus stop from Kyoto Station and walk for 20 minutes.
2004 Spring
It was a moment when I recognized, “Oh, I have wanted for spring to last for one year.”
The Gardens of Heian Jingu Shrine in Sakyo-ku: The Heian Jingu Shrine is decorated in spring with double weeping cherry trees blooming in the shrine garden, which covers an area of about 10,000 tsubo. According to Junichiro Tanizaki’s “Sasame-Yuki,” it is described as a red cloud spreading across the sky. The four sisters say, “I don’t feel I have seen flowers unless they are flowers in Kyoto,” and every year they pass through the gate here, anxious to see what they are like this year. Take the City Bus No. 5 from JR Kyoto Station to “Kyoto Kaikan Bijutukan-mae” bus stop, from which it is very close.
2003 Winter
Hokuzan Rokuon-ji (Kinkaku-ji)
Traveling is not only what you are cheerfully invited for.
Hokuzan Rokuon-ji (Kinkaku-ji) in Kita-ku: When you turn right on the garden path, you will suddenly see the fantastic Kinkaku (Golden Pavilion). It is a breathtaking moment. It is truly a journey from the ordinary to the extraordinary. Originally, Ashikaga Yoshimitsu began building the villa in 1397. It was also a center point of blossoming Kitayama culture. Take the City Bus No. 12 or 59 to “Kinkakuji-mae” bus stop, from which it is very close. This winter, the Hojo, with its fusuma paintings by Geki KANO, will be open to the public for a special viewing. The view of the Hojo Garden and “Rikufune-no Matsu” from inside the Hojo is also exceptional. Apparently, winter is also the “season of art” in Kyoto.
2003 Summer
A person can be so happy just by choosing a place to spend a day.
This sky, this water, and this green. This design and this landscape. I felt that human sense and philosophy make a paradise.
This sky, this water, and this green. This design and this landscape. I felt that human sense and philosophy make a paradise.
Byodoin in Uji City: The Phoenix Hall of Byodoin is depicted on the ten-yen coin. It is so beautiful that there is an children's song telling, “When you can no longer believe in paradise, you should come here.” It was built by Yorimichi, son of Fujiwara no Michinaga. The time was the mid-11th century when the latter day of the Law finally begun. In the coming season, if stroll around the Uji-gawa River and ask the temple, I feel as if I can feel the desire of Yorimichi who tried to simply be humble in uncertain times and to be happy by creating something beautiful in a beautiful place. Take a rapid train from JR Kyoto Station to JR Uji Station (16 minutes) and walk for 10 minutes. Uji is the stage of the Tale of Genji. Nearby are Ujigami Shrine, Mimuroto-ji, and so on.
2003 Spring
Ieyasu also moved to Kyoto by choosing a day in spring.
Nijo castle was completed at around the season of the cherry blossoms right about 400 years ago.
Nijo castle was completed at around the season of the cherry blossoms right about 400 years ago.
Nijo castle in Nakagyo-ku: It was built by Ieyasu Tokugawa as a pavilion in Kyoto, but it was also meant to show the prestige of the Tokugawa clan, and it appears as if it is a castle, and its site now covers an area of 64,000 tsubo. Construction began in 1601, the year after the Battle of Sekigahara, and was completed two years later in 1603. Ieyasu entered the castle in late March and therefore just this spring marks the 400th anniversary of its construction. It is said that Ieyasu invited people here to a spectacular Noh play party held for three days in early April. The cherry blossoms in full bloom must have marked the beginning of a new era. Take Kyoto Municipal Subway and get off at “Nijojo-mae Station.”
2002 Mid-autumn
Its real name is Shinsho Gokuraku-ji.
It is often the case that you find a “veritable Buddhist paradise” just around the corner of a street.
It is often the case that you find a “veritable Buddhist paradise” just around the corner of a street.
Shin nyo-do: Its correct name is Shinsho Gokuraku-ji. Moreover, this area has been called “Kaguraoka” for a long time, and the fact that such a divine place is located in the city is truly Kyoto. The shrine and three-storied pagoda, which are in beautiful harmony with the autumn leaves, are also magnificent in the spacious precincts of the temple. Nearby are Komyoji in Kurodani, Yoshida Shrine, and if you go down the foothill you will find soon Kyoto University. It is a strolling place for students and neighbors which is known by only limited people. You can spend a time for connoisseurs in Kyoto. Take the Kyoto City Bus No. 5 to “Shinnyodo-mae” bus stop and walk for 7 minutes.
2002 Summer
This “bracing air” is the result of the works of the deity of water.
It is a place with a water source located up the Kamo-gawa River, which flows through the town of Kibune-kyo. In ancient times, the name was also written as “kibune (木生嶺),” a mountain overgrown with trees, and “kibune (気生根),” as the source of life energy (chi) generated from the entire earth. Here, Kifune Shrine has been dedicated to the god of water for more than 1,600 years. The inner shrine is truly a “sacred forest” with ancient trees covering the sky and full of life and vitality. The temperature is about 5 degrees cooler than in the city, and it has long been a summer pleasure for Kyoto residents to cool off on the floors set up along the Kibune-gawa River's mountain stream. Get off at “Kibuneguchi Station” on the Kurama Line of the Eizan Electric Railway and go by bus for about 5 minutes.
2002 Spring
It was a cherry blossom tree planted with a desire to change the long time of strife.
Tenryu-ji: This temple was founded against the backdrop of a long conflict between the northern and southern dynasties that lasted more than 70 years. It is said that Takauji and Naoyoshi ASHIKAGA brothers decided to build the temple after being told by Kokushi MUSO about their war crimes. At that time, the area was about 40 times larger than it is today, and Arashiyama Togetsu-kyo Bridge was also within the precincts of the temple. Take JR Sanin Main Line to “Saga-Arashiyama Station” and walk for about 10 minutes. This spring, the Hatto (Dharma Hall) will open to the public starting on March 2. Don’t forget to view the “Cloud-Dragon Painting” on the ceiling on this occasion.
2001 Winter
“Decision made in Kyoto in winter”, and it sounds long-lasting.
Chion-in: With its deep connection to “Honen” of the Jodo sect, Chion-in is a temple with several faces, including its huge presence as a Tokugawa clan temple and the New Year's Eve bells. By the way, according to people in Kyoto, “You should visit Chion-in winter” in any case. The sanmon gate standing 24 meter tall and 50 meter wide in the crisp air, this famous sanmon gate seems to be the most inspiring in the year. Take the City Bus to “Chionin-mae” bus stop from Kyoto Station and walk for 7 minutes. This winter, the interior of the top of the sanmon gate, which is normally closed to the public, will be open to the public on a special occasion.
2001 Mid-autumn
I thought that “Daigoji and Daigomi (true pleasure)” must have been connected with each other.
Daigoji: You need to have a “map” to walk inside of this temple. Almost the entire mountain of Kami (upper)-Daigo and Shimo (lower)-Daigo together is a temple. It is said that Rigen Daishi, the founder of the temple, originally named the temple “Daigo” by taking 2 characters from the world “Daigomi (true delight) because he was so surprised by the deliciousness of the spring water bubbling up in the area. Over the next 1,100 years, a number of beautiful spaces were created on the vast site, each is decorated by seasonal colors. Take Municipal Subway Tozai Line to “Daigo Station” and walk for 10 minutes. Currently, the number of temple treasures is more than 100,000. The number of national treasures and important cultural properties are also outstanding.
2001 Summer
What about doing a school trip with the whole family?
Kiyomizu-dera in Higashiyama-ku: Pilgrimage to Kiyomizu Shrine was already popular among court ladies in the Heian period. The highlight is the “Kiyomizu-no-butai (stage of Kiyomizu),” which is built on 139 pillars without using a single nail. Standing here, the summer heat takes a break as the wind blows and the water flows below. Take the City Bus No.100 from Kyoto Station and get off at “Gojo-Zaka” bus stop. Gojozaka is commonly known as “Chawanzaka.” While taking a peek into some Kiyomizu-yaki pottery stores, I arrived there without knowing it. It is a true pleasure of Kiyomizu-dera that I can enjoy it starting from the approach path.
2001 Early summer
I feel like spending the whole day today being surrounded by the green. It is not even my vacation home, isn’t it?
Nanzen-ji in Higashiyama: It was originally a detached palace of Emperor Kameyama. This year marks 700 years since this place became a Zen temple under the devotion of the Emperor. The temple is so highly ranked that it was given the highest rank in Zen Buddhism, “Gozanshijo,” during the reign of Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, and as might be expected, there are a number of excellent sub-temples. The moss and trees in the garden will become greener and greener day by day in the coming season. It makes me realize that this temple is still alive vividly even after ages. Take Kyoto Municipal Subway Tozai Line to Keage Station and walk for 5 minutes. This photo shows one of the many sub-temples, “Nanzen-in”, with its magnificent fresh greenery.
2001 Spring
Isn’t it a nice country where blooming of cherry tress makes the news?
Ninna-ji: A Haiku or Japanese poem by Buson who visited Ninnaji, “Arrive in spring. leave Omuro, an evening moon” The site here is vast and boasts prestige and history, and is a place blessed with nature that conveys the four seasons and numerous temple treasures. It is no wonder that the area has been written about in poems and haiku, described in Tsurezuregusa (Essays in Idleness), and used as the setting for novels Take the Kyoto City Bus from Kyoto Station and get off at “Omuro Ninnaji” bus stop You can go there also by Kyoto Bus or JR Bus. Omuro cherry trees are late bloomers. Mid to late April is the best time to view.
2000 Winter
Written by Kukai. The sky and the sea
Inside the “five-storied pagoda” of Toji was the whole of a gigantic philosophy book.
Inside the “five-storied pagoda” of Toji was the whole of a gigantic philosophy book.
Toji (Kyoo-Gokoku-ji): The familiar five-storied pagoda of Toji, visible from the Shinkansen. It has been a symbol of Kyoto ever since it first appeared in the city over one thousand one hundred years ago. Unfolding in the inner sanctum of the first layer is the Kakuma mandala made by Kukai. The Shingon esoteric Buddhism systematized by Kukai is represented three-dimensionally by golden-colored statues of Buddha. Visualized Esoteric Buddhism. I feel that Kukai may be saying, “Please feel, not think.” An about 15 minute walk from the Hachijo exit in JR Kyoto Station.
2000 Mid-autumn
It is Japanese “gardening.” Please someone kindly explain about its beauty in a logical and scientific manner.
If you come here, you can get it instantaneously. Starting with the autumn foliage, please take your time.
If you come here, you can get it instantaneously. Starting with the autumn foliage, please take your time.
Komyo-in (Tofukuji) in Higashiyama-ku: This “Hashintei” garden is a karesansui (dry landscape) garden of the Showa period. It is said to be the work produced by the tremendous labor of Mirei Shigemori, a contemporary gardener who measured 300 gardens in Japan and completed the 26-volume “Illustrated History of Japanese Gardens” in 1939. The layout, which follows the tradition of the Kamakura period, is truly sharp and modern, with stones connected in straight lines. Get off at “Tofukuji Station” on JR Nara Line and walk for about 15 minutes. The Hojo Garden at Tofukuji was also created by Shigemori. Each of the gardens in the east, west, south, north and south has a different taste, and they are a must-see. Please don’t leave after just seeing the autumn leaves.
2000 Summer
Watermelon, lotus root, shojin-age (deep-fried vegetables), kenchin-jiru (Japanese vegetable chowder), and ingen-mame (kidney beans). And a dining table and chairs. I understood that “the happy family circle” was brought by Ingen-san.
All of it was a souvenir brought by Zen master Ingen from China. It was a story about Manpuku-ji and a story that makes me “manpuku (full).”
All of it was a souvenir brought by Zen master Ingen from China. It was a story about Manpuku-ji and a story that makes me “manpuku (full).”
Manpuku-ji in Uji City: It is somehow different from the temples I have seen in Kyoto.... There must be many people who feel this way. It was built in 1661 by Zen master Ingen, a Chinese high priest, and is the home of the Őbaku sect that maintains the style of Zen Buddhism from the Ming Dynasty. The details of the building, such as the Makara, the divine beast of the Ganges River on the roof of the main gate, and the manji kuzushi fences, are truly Chinese. It seems that even during the period of isolation, people were open-minded. There is a stone monument with the inscription, “If you go out of the gate, you will find yourself truly in Japan, singing a tea picking song” and I can indeed realize the feeling. Get off at “Obaku Station” on JR Nara Line and walk for about 10 minutes. You can also experience zazen and enjoy fucha ryori cuisine.
2000 Spring
Rather than saying, “Hang in there,” or “Cheer up”...
If there is a person in need of encouragement, I would like to bring that person here.
If there is a person in need of encouragement, I would like to bring that person here.
Bishamondo in Yamashina: The village of Yamashina has an expanding spring landscape centered on the hydrophobic waterway. The highlight must be this “Hannya-zakura (a weeping cherry tree)” with its total length of branches reaching 30 meters. Before the capital transfer to the Heian-kyo, this temple was located near the Imperial Palace and was where Saicho and other high priests of Hieizan stopped by to prepare before traveling to the Tang Dynasty. The present Shinden and the Chokushi-mon gate were moved from the Imperial Palace during the Edo period. When combined with the cherry blossoms in full bloom, it is like a dynastic picture scroll. Go on foot for about 20 minutes from Yamashina Station of JR or Subway. This year’s cherry blossom viewing party with the sounds of koto (Japanese harp) flowing is on April 2.
1999 Winter
Being straightened in a line is good. Being warped or slipped off is bad. No such rules were found in this “rice bowl.”
How “free and creative” Japanese people were in the first place.
How “free and creative” Japanese people were in the first place.
Daisen-in (Daitoku-ji) in Kita-ku: It is one of the oldest sub-temples of Daitoku-ji. Its main hall was built when the temple was first constructed, and has seen people coming and going here for nearly 500 years. The third generation abbot was Kokei priest, under whom Sen no Rikyu studied Zen. It is said that Hideyoshi was offered tea in the tea room in front of the karesansui (dry landscape) garden. What kind of conversation took place between him and Hideyoshi, who drove Rikyu to commit harakiri.... Take the Kyoto City Bus and get off at “Daitokuji-mae” bus stop. It is nice to think back to those days while enjoying the maccha tea inside.
1999 Mid-autumn
You were in a meeting, running endlessly, and now you are working for the efficiency calculations, staring at the data. How does it look? Did you come up with a good idea?
Why don’t you stroll around and experience the “autumn leaves”?
Why don’t you stroll around and experience the “autumn leaves”?
Honen-in in Sakyo-ku: It looks as if it is a mountain villa that makes you feel the quaintness of the “Philosopher’s Walk” leading from Ginkaku-ji. Perhaps, this must be why it was loved by many scholars and cultural figures. The thatched temple gate at the end of the entrance path to the temple allow us to calm down as we tend to be excited by the autumn leaves. The first thing that catches the eye as one enters the temple grounds is a sand hill called a “Byakusadan.” The patterns drawn by the monks every morning are said to reflect the spirit of Zen. Take the Kyoto City Bus to “Jodoji” bus stop and walk for 10 minutes. Junichiro Tanizaki’s grave is located here, and the single character “Sabi” (quiet simplicity) on the natural stone is impressive.
1999 Summer
It is said that this country will soon further globalize. It is said that digitization progresses everywhere. The 21th century is just around the corner.
Yet, Kyoto seems to be saying “that’s none of my business.”
Yet, Kyoto seems to be saying “that’s none of my business.”
Hosen-in in Sakyo-ku: It appears quietly at the end of the road where you walk to drop by temples such as Sanzen-in and Jikko-in. Let your eyes and ears play slowly in the picture frame garden, where the pillars give visitors the impression of viewing a painting. The bright green and the magnificent Goyomatsu pine tree of 700 years old. Matcha green tea and Japanese sweets served on the Engawa external corridor. I heard that the name of this garden, “Bankan-en” means “hard to leave.” It is indeed understandable. Take the Kyoto City Bus or Kyoto Bus to “Ohara” bus stop and walk for 10 minutes. This area is truly “Ohara no Sato (a village of Ohara),” where fields and thatched roofs still remain.
1999 Spring
Just once a year is fine like the cherry blossoms here. I wish I could work to make people happy that much.
I was a lucky person to have been born in a country where cherry blossoms bloom in spring without exception.
I was a lucky person to have been born in a country where cherry blossoms bloom in spring without exception.
Yoshimine Temple in Nishikyo-ku: Yoshimine Temple stands on the steep slopes of Mt. Nishiyama and its name was given by the emperor at around the end of the Heian period. Once you reach the top, you will be rewarded with a panoramic view of the city of Kyoto below and the natural monument “Yuryu-no-matsu (lit. gliding dragon pine-tree),” which is nearly 40ⅿ meters long, making the walk worth the time. What is most overwhelming in this season is the cherry blossoms on the temple grounds. In particular, the weeping cherry tree near Kyodo (a library of sutra) is 300 years old and is a rare combination of cherry and maple trees. Get off at “JR Mukomachi Station” and drive for about 20 minutes. The area of the precincts of the temple is over 30,000 tsubo. Come and work up a good sweat.
1998 Winter
The hubbub on Broadway is attractive, but the chic time to spend in “Gion” is quite something.
I watched “Kyomai (Kyo dance).” It has not only its gorgeousness but other aspects. The dancers’ strong thoughts were contained in their fingertips straightened tight.
I watched “Kyomai (Kyo dance).” It has not only its gorgeousness but other aspects. The dancers’ strong thoughts were contained in their fingertips straightened tight.
Yasaka Shrine in Higashiyama-ku: The people of Kyoto affectionately call it “Gion-san” or “Yasaka-san.” Gion-machi, where the traditional Kyoto dance has been preserved, was originally developed in the early Edo period (1603-1867) as a temple town front of Yasaka Shrine. You can often see maiko and geiko girls of Gion praying in the morning and evening. With the “Okera Pilgrimage” on December 31, various festivals will be held in the coming season. Take the Kyoto City Bus to “Gion” bus stop, from which it is very close. Facing Higashioji-dori Street is the west roumon gate. Entering from the south roumon gate, one can go directly to the Buden Hall in this photo.
1998 Mid-autumn
Sennyuji. I am often asked how to read the name. It is a temple whose gates had been closed for more than 700 years. It reads “Sennyuji.”
I am glad to have been born in the current time. I was able to meet “Yokihi Kannon,” a hibutsu not shown to the public for 700 years.
I am glad to have been born in the current time. I was able to meet “Yokihi Kannon,” a hibutsu not shown to the public for 700 years.
Sennyuji in Higashiyama-ku: The Buddha Hall appears in the morning mist. White sand laid out on the ground. The “Yokihi Kannon statue,” a secret Buddha statue from the Tang Dynasty, had long been hidden from the public eye. There is a tranquil atmosphere appropriate for an imperial family temple since Emperor Shijo is wafting. Even in the midst of the 36 peaks of Higashiyama, which are decorated with autumn leaves, the temple seems to have the power to make people think quietly and silently, rather than being crowded with people. Take the Kyoto City Bus to “Sennyuji-michi” bus stop and walk for 10 minutes. A temple where springs gushes forth. As the name suggests, there is gushing water in the precincts of the temple.
1998 Summer
An emissary from Venus stood on this land 6.5 million years ago. Yoshitsune met a tengu, or long-nosed goblin, 800 years ago.
Welcome to this mystery zone in Kyoto.
Welcome to this mystery zone in Kyoto.
Kurama-dera in Sakyo-ku: Mr. Kurama, famous for Ushiwakamaru, has long been known to the people of Kyoto as a dark and spiritual mountain, as it is also known as Mr. Kurabu (lit. dark section). Take the Kyoto City Bus to “Demachiyanagi Station” bus stop. From there, take the Kurama Line of the Eizan Electric Railway and get off at Kurama Station. Then, use a cable car. Kurama-dera, it is much closer than you may think. But the temperature is 5 to 6 degrees cooler than the city.
1998 Early summer
The place was a coffee shop of 4.5 tatami mats. There is absolutely not one extra thing. So, I just ended up thinking of the other person.
I learned the knack of inter-personal relationships by just one cup of tea.
I learned the knack of inter-personal relationships by just one cup of tea.
Oubai-in (Daitoku-ji) in Kita-ku: During the Muromachi period, “chanoyu” was completed as a culture unique to Japan in terms of both a form and spirituality with a backdrop of Zen. In particular, Daikokuji developed a deep friendship with tea masters, and it is said that Sen no Rikyu established a tea house in front of the gate and was influenced at lot by Kokei priest. The tea house in the photo is “Sakumuken,” one of the oldest tea houses in Daitoku-ji. It was made by Rikyu's teacher, Joo Takeno, the teacher of Rikyu. Take the Kyoto City Bus and get off at “Daitokuji-mae” bus stop. Reservation is required to visit the temple. From June 1 to July 31
1998 Spring
Cherry blossoms in Kyoto and the upward slopes. Auspicious symbols have gathered here. I say, “Come on, spring!”
This country has experienced periods of winter-like hardship so far, but spring comes without exception, doesn’t it?
This country has experienced periods of winter-like hardship so far, but spring comes without exception, doesn’t it?
Shouji-ji in Nishikyo-ku: The poet Saigyo composed the poem “Let me die in spring under the blossoming trees, let it be around that full moon of Kisaragi month,” and he was a poet who lived and died by cherry blossoms and established his hermitage here. The temple is also known as “Flower Temple” and is covered with 450 cherry trees including “Saigyo Cherry Blossoms,” which are said to have been planted by Saigyo himself. All the more because the temple grounds are not large at all, it seems as if the temple is covered in flowers. Take the Hankyu Bus at JR Mukomachi Station’ to “Mukomachi” bus stop and walk 20 minutes. As you get off the bus and walk down the long entrance path to the temple, you will be greeted by cherry blossoms peeking out from halfway along the path.
1997 Winter
Honen, who jumped out alone from the gigantic organization “Hieizan.” It was a “declaration of freedom” made in the Kamakura period.
He was brave and succeeded. I think he is so cool.
He was brave and succeeded. I think he is so cool.
Chion-in in Higashiyama-ku: This temple, which has more than 100 buildings of various sizes, was originally the place where Honen came down from Mt. Hiei and built a small hermitage. He started the missionary work of the Jodo sect from this place. The huge wooden Sanmon gate, 24ⅿ high and 27ⅿ long, welcoming travelers, and the Mikage-do, which can hold 4,000 people, occupies the center of the temple grounds, giving a sense of the history of the temple, which grew up largely under the patronage of the Tokugawa shogunate. Take the Kyoto City Bus to “Chionin-mae” bus stop and walk for 5 minutes. The stone steps from the Sanmon gate are quite steep. Please watch your foot.
1997 Mid-autumn
All the cherry blossom trees were cut down 600 years ago. It is a temple which chose autumn instead of spring.
The best position for autumn leaves is the path of discipline.
The best position for autumn leaves is the path of discipline.
Tofukuji in Rakunan: The Tsuten-kyo Bridge in this photo is now a special seat to view the famous autumn leaves of Tofukuji. It is said that the bridge was originally erected to help ascetic monks who were going up and down the valley to the Kaisando-do above. The maple trees in the valley overlooked by the bridge were originally the three-pointed leaf maples brought back from the Song Dynasty in China by the monks of this temple, along with Buddhist teachings. It is characterized by its leaf tips that are divided into three. You can easily distinguish them. Take the Kyoto City Bus to “Tofukuji” bus stop, from which it is very close. The beauty of each sub-temple's unique garden is also the highlight.
1997 Summer
Superstar, Zeami at age of 12. Producer, Yoshimitsu Ashikaga at age of 17. “Noh” has been a boom since 600 years ago.
I would like to tell artists in the Heisei era that “Noh” has continuously been performed live.
I would like to tell artists in the Heisei era that “Noh” has continuously been performed live.
Shokoku-ji in Kamigyo-ku: This Zen temple has a surprisingly large area in the center of town, very close to the Kyoto Imperial Palace. It is understandable from the fact that Ashikaga Yoshimitsu built the temple prior to Kinkaku-ji. It was the second temple of the Kyoto Gozan. Yoshimitsu is said to have been greatly fascinated by sarugaku, which he saw for the first time at the age of 17, and he protected Zeami’s art, which is said to have helped establish the artistic status of “Noh.” Take Kyoto Municipal Subway to “Karasuma Imadegawa Station” and walk for 10 minutes. On September 25, takigi Noh will be performed to commemorate the 600th anniversary of the founding of Shokoku-ji.
1997 Early summer
“One day, all of a sudden, I became sick and tired of fighting. I decided to live with flowers and insects.”
... It is said that by saying so, Jozan ISHIKAWA, a worrier in the Sengoku period, made this garden.
... It is said that by saying so, Jozan ISHIKAWA, a worrier in the Sengoku period, made this garden.
Shisendo in Sakyo-ku: The villa was originally the home of Jozan ISHIKAWA, a warrior trusted by Ieyasu, who followed the Battle of Sekigahara at the age of 18 and spent the next 31 years in seclusion here. He is a man of elegance who enjoyed reading, composed poetry, and was skillful at calligraphy. The name “Shisendo” is said to have come from the fact that 36 Chinese poets were selected and their portraits were hung in the residence in reference to the 36 kasen (great poets) of Japan. Take the Kyoto City Bus or the Kyoto Bus to “Ichijoji Sagarimatsucho” bus stop and walk for 5 minutes. Wild flowers bloom everywhere in the garden, and a different look can be seen in each season.
1997 Spring
It is said that Kenko Yoshida often visited here to cover the place to write Tsurezuregusa.
His residence was near here. He might enjoy viewing cherry blossoms there in spring.
His residence was near here. He might enjoy viewing cherry blossoms there in spring.
Ninna-ji in Ukyo-ku: As it is said, “the cherry blossoms in Omuro tell the end of spring,” the Omuro cherry trees here are late-bloomers. Moreover, the flowers bloom from 2 to 4ⅿ tall and 20 to 30 cm above the ground, and therefore I feel as if I am facing the cherry blossoms instead of looking up them. To the eyes accustomed to seeing Someiyoshino, this is a pleasant surprise. Take the Kyoto City Bus and get off at “Omuro Ninnaji” bus stop. You can go there also by Kyoto Bus or JR Bus.
1997 Spring
These days, it seems unpopular to think deeply about things. I wonder if it is ok. This question just popped up on the Philosopher’s Walk.
The path was humbler than I thought. It made it all the more philosophical.
The path was humbler than I thought. It made it all the more philosophical.
The Philosopher’s Walk in Sakyo-ku: What is running beside the road is a branch flow of a canal from Lake Biwa, and this means that this road is the “canal path.” It is an example of how manmade and nature work together can create a beautiful space. It is said that from the first many scholars and artists, including the philosopher Kitaro Nishida, lived in the area and they were often seen contemplating and discussing with each other. You can walk here either starting at Ginkaku-ji and going down to the south or starting at around Nanzen-ji and going up to the north. Incidentally, there is a parallel path a little further to east. This is another Philosopher’s Walk.
1996 Winter
I find I lacked a “place to think”, not a “time to think.”
Whether I reflect on it or make up my mind, the stage is necessary.
Whether I reflect on it or make up my mind, the stage is necessary.
Yasaka Tower in Higashiyama-ku: Ninenzaka, further down “Sannen (Sannei) zaka” on the way to Kiyomizu on Gojozaka. This five-storied pagoda of Hokan-ji is located close to it. It is one of the most representative landscapes of Kyoto. The entrance to Sannenzaka is marked by a shichimi pepper shop. If you are in a hurry to the pagoda, take the Kyoto City Bus to “Higashiyama Yasui” bus stop and go on foot.
1996 Mid-autumn
I think I will be reminded of this year by this scenery.
Today, I feel like I’ve met scenery that will last for a lifetime.
Today, I feel like I’ve met scenery that will last for a lifetime.
Eikando in Sakyo-ku: Its formal name is Zenrin-ji. It is a famous temple founded in the Heian period. The autumn leaves here are so beautiful that they are even mentioned in the Kokinshu, a collection of ancient Japanese poetry. When climbing up and down the hall's corridor, I can feel as if I am passing through the autumn leaves. It is indeed a historic place of autumn foliage. Take the Kyoto City Bus to “Eikando-mae” bus stop and walk for 5 minutes.
1996 Mid-autumn
It was a popular open-air place. I ordered the maccha tea.
I just have some business, wait for me outside.
I just have some business, wait for me outside.
Daitoku-ji (Koto-in) in Kita-ku: The precincts of the temple are lined with dozens of halls and towers and it has a temple-town like atmosphere. Among the 21 sub-temples, Koto-in's Shoin (the drawing room) is said to have been moved from the residence of Sen no Rikyu, and is simple yet graceful. The picturesque space here reaches its peak when the autumn leaves deepen and eventually begin to fall. This is the moment I can realize the Japanese word “chirimomiji,” meaning “scattered red leaves.” Take the Kyoto City Bus to “Daitokuji-mae” bus stop, from which it is very close. You can also enjoy maccha tea while viewing the garden with autumn leaves.
1996 Early autumn
I heard that there is no such English as “Moon watching.”
The height of this moat, the location of this tree, and the color of this sand... all were decided by the moon.
The height of this moat, the location of this tree, and the color of this sand... all were decided by the moon.
Shoden-ji in Kita-ku: Go further west from Kamigamo Jinja. It is located at the southern foot of Mr. Funayama, one of the five mountains famous for the Okuribi festival. Although many people know it as the temple of the “bloody ceiling,” it is often called “Moon Temple” by people in the vicinity. The moon crosses over the white wall with Mt. Hiei in the background as if tracing the ridgeline of the mountain. It seems certain that Enshu Kobori used the moon as the deciding factor in his design. Take the Kyoto City Bus and get off at “Jinkoin-mae” bus stop. It is a 15 minute walk. Nighttime viewing is available from September 22 to 28.
1996 Summer
I don’t know how to put it this way for a Buddha, but I thought “how beautiful it is.”
I heard that it started smiling 1,000 years earlier than the Mona Lisa.
I heard that it started smiling 1,000 years earlier than the Mona Lisa.
Koryu-ji in Ukyo-ku: The “statue of Miroku Bosatsu” is said to date back to the founding of the temple in 603. The so-called “Hanka Shiyui statue,” which is a statue of a person contemplating with his right leg resting on his left knee and his right hand gently resting on his cheek. The famous philosopher Jaspers wrote in his book of his impressions that in his lifetime he had never seen a work of art that so embodied the true peaceful nature of human existence. Hear the voice say to you in silence. Take the Kyoto City Bus to “Ukyoku Sogochosha-mae” bus stop, from which it is very close. What is situated right next to it is so-called “Crying Maitreya.” This one is also from the Asuka period.
1996 Early summer
I now know what is meant by “Sarasōju no hana no iro jōsha hissui no kotowari wo arahasu (the color of the sal flowers reveals the truth that the prosperous must decline)”
In Kyoto, there are flowers that start to tell you “What is meant by the world of men is...”
In Kyoto, there are flowers that start to tell you “What is meant by the world of men is...”
Myoshin-ji (Torin-in) in Ukyo-ku: It has 46 sub-temples. One of them is Torin-in, also known as the temple of the sal tree flowers. The flowers of the sal trees fall off as soon as they put on their beautiful blossoms. This is what is described in “The Tale of the Heike” as “the principle of the inevitable decline of the prosperous is shown.” Outside, the early summer sun brightly illuminates the stone pavements that crisscross the temple grounds and the roof tiles beautifully overlapping. The new season is already just around the corner. Take the Kyoto City Bus or the JR Bus and get off at “Myoshinji Kitamon-mae” bus stop. Don’t miss the “Happo-nirami Dragon” on the ceiling of the Hatto. You can become rather tense.
1996 Spring
Daikakuji and Osawa-no-ike Pond
There are many such places as “just a plain, open space without cherry blossoms.”
Walking, walking, walking. The path was still in spring.
Walking, walking, walking. The path was still in spring.
Daikakuji and Osawa-no-ike Pond in Ukyo-ku: Because it was originally built as a detached palace for Emperor Saga, Osawa-no-ike Pond, a part of the garden, is so large that I would like to call it rather a lake. With the backdrop of the beautiful mountain, it is awesome to see that all are well and carefully arranged, such as the cherry blossoms and maples on the bank, the two islands inside, the tea house by the pond, the stone Buddha, and the Hoto. Please circle around the pond as well as the temple along the corridor. This is one of the rather extravagant spring walks in Kyoto. Take the Kyoto Bus or the Kyoto City Bus to “Daikakuji” bus stop, from which it is very close.
1995 Winter
I got a chill but I wonder if it was only due to the chilliness here.
In a time like this, my sensitivity rather tends to go up.
In a time like this, my sensitivity rather tends to go up.
Toji (Kyoo-Gokoku-ji) in Minami-ku: The five-storied pagoda, a symbol of Kyoto. It is a little disappointing to hear that many people leave immediately after taking a look at it a little while. Construction of this temple began in the year following the capital transfer to Kyoto in the Heian period, and the temple itself is the history of Kyoto. The five-storied pagoda, the layout of the buildings, and the appearance of the Buddhist statues were all thought through by Kukai with the intention of creating a textbook on esoteric Buddhism. This is the season when the clean air seems to help me streamline my feelings. It may be a good opportunity to learn what they wanted to leave us with. An about 15 minute walk from JR Kyoto Station. Its hold a stunning number of national treasures, 73.
1995 Mid-autumn
I was thinking about the universe and a friend of mine was thinking about her life.
What the autumn foliage told me was not only the season.
What the autumn foliage told me was not only the season.
Genko-an in Takagamine: This area, elegantly named “Takamine,” has many temples with atmospheric autumn foliage, such as Koetsu-ji and Josho-ji . At Genko-an, be sure to view the autumn leaves through the round window called “satori no mado (window of realization).” I am wondering what is meant by harmonious and pure realization... Today become a memorable fall day. Take the Kyoto City Bus to “Takagamine Genkoan-mae” bus stop, from which it is very close.
1995 Mid-autumn
The autumn foliage in 1995 fit into the picture frame named Japanese history.
In this town, even turning colors of trees is a historical event.
In this town, even turning colors of trees is a historical event.
Nanzen-ji in Higashiyama: At Nanzen-ji, you can see a great variety of foliage landscapes. With the contrast between the large temple and the sanmon gate, and the fiery red of the autumn leaves, and the autumn leaves in the deeply calculated composition of the sub-temple garden. The brick canal pavilions and autumn leaves create an exotic beauty, and the majestic nishiki (brocade) of Higashiyama in the background.... It seems as if the history of this town has continued to refine the beauty of the autumn leaves. Take the Kyoto City Bus to “Eikando-mae” bus stop and walk for 5 minutes. Eikando is also a sight of autumn leaves. By all means, please drop by on any occasion.
1995 Summer
It is what Kyoto is like that such a bridge was brought to here.
I am visiting a summer retreat recognized by nobles in the Heian period.
I am visiting a summer retreat recognized by nobles in the Heian period.
Arashiyama in Ukyo-ku: In around the Heian period, nobles competed with each other to build villas in this area. Designed to blend in with the scenery, the Togetsu-kyo Bridge seems to tell us how the bridge should be. A boat ride down the torrent of the Hozu-gawa River from Kameoka is also a cool experience. Take the Kyoto City Bus or Kyoto Bus and get off at “Arashiyama” bus stop. It is also very close from Arashiyama Station Keifuku on the Keifuku Electric Railroad Arashiyama Main Line.
1995 Summer
Only the thermometer said, “it is in mid summer.”
I got it. The coolest thing is this “silent coolness.”
I got it. The coolest thing is this “silent coolness.”
Shoren-in Monzeki in Higashiyama-ku: It is situated north next to Chion-in. There is a temple where a huge camphor tree in front of the gate provides plenty of shade, as if to give a breather to summer travelers who have walked this far. Shorenin, also known as Awata gosho. The cool impression you get when you see and hear its name is even more so when you go inside. The greenery of the garden by Soami and Enshu Kobori makes one feel as if the heat is mysteriously fading away. Take the Kyoto City Bus to “Jingu-michi” bus stop, from which it is very close on foot. The “Fudo Myoo Nidoji Zo (Fudo Myoo with two youths)” here is called Ao Fudo (Blue Fudo) and is one of the three major fudos in Japan along with the Yellow Fudo at Mitsui-dera and the Red Fudo at Koyasan Myoo-in.
1995 Spring
In the morning and evening, it is spring in Kyoto. In the daytime, it is summer in Kyoto.
“A little cuckoo’s song is heard in Jakko-in and an empress dowager during the Jisho and Juei era started chanting a sutra and living a secluded life at age of 30.” by Akiko Yosano
“A little cuckoo’s song is heard in Jakko-in and an empress dowager during the Jisho and Juei era started chanting a sutra and living a secluded life at age of 30.” by Akiko Yosano
Jakko-in in Ohara: This is a temple associated with the Heike clan, which you will encounter as you walk along a narrow path in a mountain village, as if you are going back in time. “A little cuckoo’s song is heard in Jakko-in and an empress dowager during the Jisho and Juei era started chanting a sutra and living a secluded life at age of 30.” It is said that Akiko Yosano composed this poem while climbing the stone steps in this photo. Take the Kyoto City Bus to “Ohara” bus stop and walk for 20 minutes.
1995 Spring
A “world cultural heritage” site was waiting for me at the end of the spring stream and the tunnel.
It is a “national cultural heritage site” selected by UNESCO in December 1994. Its colleagues include Egyptian pyramids and Baths of Caracalla in Rome.
It is a “national cultural heritage site” selected by UNESCO in December 1994. Its colleagues include Egyptian pyramids and Baths of Caracalla in Rome.
Kamigamo Jinja in Kita-ku. Its formal name is “Kamowakeikazuchi Jinja.” The vast green lawns, the sound of the stream running through the area, the gentle streets of the Shinto priests’ residences called “shake,” and the rows of cherry trees along the Kamo-gawa River...this area is packed with Kyoto style in the springtime. Take the Kyoto City Bus at Kitayama Subway Station and get off at “Kamigamo Jinja-mae” bus stop.
1995 Spring
If there is a spot with pink color popping up on this earth... It is Kyoto.
These are the offspring of the 700 cherry blossom tress which HIdeyoshi was eager to boast. I won’t lose to a little crowd.
These are the offspring of the 700 cherry blossom tress which HIdeyoshi was eager to boast. I won’t lose to a little crowd.
Daigoji in Fushimi-ku: It is a vast temple and almost the entire Mt. Daigo is covered by the temple. Hideyoshi’s “Hanami in Daigo” is well known, and its luxury is that first at the entrance, you are welcomed by the entrance path lined with cherry trees. The sub-temple to its left, “Sanboin”, was also confidently landscaped by Hideyoshi for the Hanami banquet. Together with the Reihokan (treasure hall) on the right, it is a treasure house of national treasures and important cultural properties, including Buddhist statues, folding screens, and mandala paintings. Last year, it was selected as a “World Cultural Heritage” site by UNESCO. Take the Kyoto City Bus from near JR Tokaido Main Line Yamashina Station and get off at “Daigoji Sanpoin-mae” bus stop. The cherry blossoms along the entrance path to the temple grounds can be seen at any time, although they are not lit up.
1994 Winter
What we could be proud to share with the rest of the world must be a scenery like this.
It is not in a mounting of Kyoto. Surprisingly, it is 10 minutes walk from the main street.
It is not in a mounting of Kyoto. Surprisingly, it is 10 minutes walk from the main street.
Honen-in Sakyo-ku: It is located a little east of the famous Philosopher’s Walk, on the way from Chion-in to Ginkakuji Temple. As it can be known from the name, it is associated with Honen, the founder of the Jodo sect of Buddhism. The thatched sanmon gate, the tranquil buildings on the temple grounds, and the space created by the pond and sand mounds make me realize the bracing atmosphere. The graves of Tanizaki Junichiro and Kawakami Hajime are also located here, and in particular Tanizaki is said to have most loved this small temple from his lifetime, making it a hidden spot to see for Kyoto connoisseurs. Take the Kyoto City Bus to “Jodoji” bus stop and walk for 10 minutes.
1994 Winter
I am trying to impress it on my mind by stopping and clicking the camera shutter.
Look closely. Feel thrilled firmly. It may sound easy, but it surprisingly in need of a technique.
Look closely. Feel thrilled firmly. It may sound easy, but it surprisingly in need of a technique.
Kinkaku-ji (Rokuon-ji) in Kita-ku: With Mt. Kinugasa in the background, this area was once a vacation spot loved by Heian nobles, and at the peak of the Muromachi shogunate, the third shogun Yoshimitsu used all his power and wealth to realize the golden pavilion here. Once your eyes have adjusted to the dazzling golden light, pay attention to the building. The first layer is a Fujiwara-era shinden-zukuri, the second layer is a Kamakura-era shoin-zukuri, and the third layer is a Zen Butsuden-zukuri, and it is a unique building that is both a residence and a Buddhist temple. It is a fusion of court noble culture and samurai culture. Watching it is like glimpsing a part of the Kitayama culture. Take the Kyoto City Bus to “Kinkaku-ji mae” bus stop, from which it is very close.
1994 Mid-autumn
I heard that magnificent autumn leaves alone cannot make a place a noted place. In Kyoto.
There are people living in the middle of autumn leaves and are Buddhas smiling in the middle of autumn leaves. Autumn in Kyoto is really exceptional.
There are people living in the middle of autumn leaves and are Buddhas smiling in the middle of autumn leaves. Autumn in Kyoto is really exceptional.
Takaosan Jingoji in Takao: It is a long-established sight of autumn leaves and it is said that Ashikaga Yoshimitsu visited here every year to see the autumn foliage. Visitors can spend a full day enjoying the autumn foliage: the leaves welcoming travelers at the temple gate, the leaves of Mt. Kitayama in the background, and the dynamic valley of autumn leaves stretching out before them across the river. According to data from previous years, the best time to view the autumn leaves is mid-November. Take the JR Bus from Kyoto Station and get off at “Yamashirotakao” bus stop.
1994 Mid-autumn
In the first place, it is about the autumn leaves in a town.
Whenever I wish them around here, there will surely be autumn leaves. In Kyoto.
Whenever I wish them around here, there will surely be autumn leaves. In Kyoto.
Gio-ji in Sagano: Gionji Temple is where Shirabyoshi dancer Gio, who fell out of favor with Taira no Kiyomori, her sister Gijo, and their mother spent the rest of their lives. The sunlight filtering through the autumn foliage and the scattered autumn leaves covering the moss all over...... The view is complete as if it were a painting. Among the many paths for viewing autumn leaves you can find in Sagano, it is a place that is particularly quiet but dramatic. Based on data from previous years, the best time to view the autumn leaves is mid-November. Take the Kyoto City Bus or Kyoto Bus to “Saga Shakado-mae” bus stop from Kyoto Station and go on foot.
1994 Summer
I climbed Mt. Hiei. I came across a story which would violently shake my view of life.
It is nudging me to reflect on myself, who always wants to take the easy way out.
It is nudging me to reflect on myself, who always wants to take the easy way out.
Enryakuji, Yokawa, Mt Hiei: Enryakuji is the collective name for a number of temple buildings dotted on Mt. Hiei. The mountain is divided into three areas: East Pagoda, West Pagoda, and Yokawa areas, and the Yokawa area, located in the northernmost part of the mountain, was the training ground of monks who were later called distinguished priests, such as Genshin, Shinran, Nichiren, and Dogen. Take the Hieizan Drive Bus from Kyoto Station and get off at “Enryakuji Bus Center.”
1994 Summer
I would like to express my respect for the efforts to have maintained it unchanged.
Gion was a town of abundance regardless of the fact that it has no big gate no wide balconies.
Gion was a town of abundance regardless of the fact that it has no big gate no wide balconies.
Gion: The entire eastern part of Kamo-gawa River where river beds are lined up in summer, across from Shijo Street at around Tatsumi-bashi bridge, is called Gion. Originally it was developed and became prosperous as the town in front of Yasaka Shrine. In this photo, you can see the Tatsumi-bashi Bridge where Shirakawa Minami-dori and Shinbashi-dori are blessed with the beautiful townscape remaining unchanged intersect. It is a place where I can really realize the saying, “The origin of Kyoto is in the open air.” Take the Kyoto City Bus from Kyoto Station and get off at “Gion” bus stop. Please fully enjoy the beauty and wisdom of Japanese houses, such as the lattice doors and inuyarai (dog-arai) that make up the beautiful streets.
1994 Spring
In an era like this, I feel like watching energetic cherry blossoms.
Certainly, the cherry blossoms are different as they have survived many kinds of periods.
Certainly, the cherry blossoms are different as they have survived many kinds of periods.
Maruyama Park in Gion: This is the oldest park in Kyoto, stretching eastward from Yasaka Shrine, known as “Gion-san.” The weeping cherry trees, which are easily noticeable, bloom fully in April. At night in particular, its appearance floating on the bonfire is even mysterious. Among the many cherry blossom viewing spots in Kyoto, it is located in the center of the city. Please come and enjoy a light walk after finishing dinner. If you go south further, you will find Kodai-ji. Take the Kyoto City Bus to “Gion” bus stop, from which it is very close. Many famous ryotei restaurants that welcome foreign guests are located in this area.
1994 Spring
Even if it’s not silver... Because it is not silver... These are why I like it.
“Was this place the residence of Yoshimasa and Tomiko?” “Because they had no money, they were unable to use silver.” “Actually, it turned out to be better.”
“Was this place the residence of Yoshimasa and Tomiko?” “Because they had no money, they were unable to use silver.” “Actually, it turned out to be better.”
Ginkaku-ji in Sakyo-ku: Its formal name is Jisho-ji. It is located a little ways away from the north edge of The Philosopher’s Walk. Why is it called Ginkaku-ji even though it is not colored in silver?It is said that Ashikaga Yoshimasa, who built the temple, wanted to use beaten silver on the temple, following the example of his grandfather Yoshimitsu’s Kinkaku-ji, but he had to give up the idea due to the economic situation after the Onin War. Ironically though, it has become an existence to teach us “wabi and sabi.” Take the Kyoto City Bus to “Ginkakuji-mae” bus stop and go on foot. For more information on Yoshimasa, his lawful wife Tomiko Hino, and the human drama surrounding them, please refer to this year’s NHK Taiga Drama, among other sources.
1993 Winter
It relieved the worriers in warring periods. It is very effective even for corporate warriors in the Heisei era.
Toji (Kyoo-Gokoku-ji) in Minami-ku: This temple is so famous for the five-storied pagoda but there are many other points of interest to see here. The Kodo hall (Lecture Hall) is packed with 21 Buddhist statues, including some from the Heian period. And this Kondo (Main Hall), etc., etc. Although the temple has been burned in numerous battles, it has been rebuilt each time, and the layout of each hall remains as it was when first built in the early Heian period. You can get a real feeling of the space in a temple of the Heian-kyo. An about a 10 minute walk from the Hachijo exit in JR Kyoto Station. On the 21st of every month, a market called “Kobo-san” is held. You may be able to find some lucky finds.
1993 Winter
It is a quiz made of stones and sand. The correct answer still has not yet appeared for hundreds of years.
Even if 30 minutes passed? I guess I haven’t had enough training for life yet.
Even if 30 minutes passed? I guess I haven’t had enough training for life yet.
Ryoanji in Ukyo-ku: The highlight is the rock garden. White sand is all over, and on the sand, large and small 15 stones are arranged in groups of 7 rocks, 5 rocks and 3 rocks. Around it, there is only a little moss. And it is said that you can’t see the 15 stones at once from any direction. It is a really simple and really mysterious garden in Kyoto. Take the Kyoto City Bus to “Ryoanji-mae” bus stop, from which it is very close.
1993 Winter
For your worries, “What will become of the future of Japan?” “Once upon a time in Japan” will answer the question.
After I pass through one, I will be in one year ago. If so, at around the curve I passed a little while ago, I returned to the time 300 years ago.
After I pass through one, I will be in one year ago. If so, at around the curve I passed a little while ago, I returned to the time 300 years ago.
Fushimi Inari Taisha in Fushimi: Fushimi is a famous home of sake. Here, there is the Fushimi Inari Taisha, the headquarters of the Inari shrines, and it is said that there are 40,000 Inari shrines in Japan. The entrance path starts in front of the station. Go to the main shrine and the inner shrine. If you continue to go further, there is the Senbon Torii, a 4-kilometer-long, vividly vermilion-lacquered torii gateway. There are rest areas along the way. The views are also satisfying. Each time you pass through one torii, you go back by 1 year. Please enjoy the time trip to the past. Very close from “Inari Station” on JR Nara Line. Some people avoid the crowded New Year's holiday and go there to pray for the coming year at the end of the year.
1993 Winter
When I came here in a school trip and heard “1001 Buddhas,” I tended to say, “what’s the big deal?”
When I return home, I feel like reading the pages of the “Heian period” of my old Japanese history text books.
When I return home, I feel like reading the pages of the “Heian period” of my old Japanese history text books.
Sanjusangen-do [Higashiyama]. Its formal name is Renge-o-in. A faint light is shining in the hall, and there are 1,001 statues of Kannon. It is called Sanjusangen-do because the number of its pillars is 33. It is said that this many statues of Kannon were enshrined by Taira no Kiyomori at the request of retired Emperor Go-Shirakawa. What a rich gift he asked for. There must have been some very interesting relationships behind this. Take the Kyoto City Bus to “Hakubutsukan Sanjusangendo-mae” bus stop, from which it is very close. The famous “Toshiya (long-range archery)” event. Many spots damaged by arrows can be found behind the hall.
1993 Mid-autumn
I suspect a person who is always chasing after new things must be always anxious.
Heian Jingu Shrine the bridge hall in Okazaki: When I ask town people about the highlights of Heian Jingu, many recommend strolling through the shrine garden. It is indeed spectacular to see the place of 30,000 square meters with about 200 varieties of seasonal flowers and trees, and the streams and ponds. It is said that whenever you visit, you will always be greeted with a beautiful sight. The pine needles, in particular, are prepared one by one by hand, which takes a full year. Please sit on the bridge hall in this photo and take a close look at it. Take the Kyoto City Bus to “Kyoto Kaikan Bijutukan-mae” bus stop, from which it is very close. A closer look at the creek reveals it to be full of freshwater clams.
1993 Mid-autumn
I thought autumn foliage could be seen anywhere. Apologies.
What was I doing this time last year? I must have been saying busy, busy, anyway.
What was I doing this time last year? I must have been saying busy, busy, anyway.
Jojakko-Ji in Sagano: It was originally a retreat for writers and artists, and its colors of the autumn leaves and the view are particularly notable in Sangano where a lot of sights exist. What are incredible in early November are the red, yellow, and green colors of the trees, and in late November are the stone steps paved with scattered autumn leaves. The stone steps are a bit steep, but once you reach the top, you feel that it was worth doing so, seeing the view of the main hall and a Tahoto with a hiwadabuki roof made from cypress bark lined up. It is also said that Fujiwara no Teika once had a villa here and compiled the Ogura Hyakunin Isshu (one hundred waka poems). Take the Kyoto City Bus to “Nonomiya” bus stop and walk for 8 minutes. A 30 minute walk from Kyoto. Nomiya Shrine, Ochikakisha, Nison-in Temple, etc. can also be walked around from here.
1993 Mid-autumn
1,200 years’ of successes and failures of people. I can learn a lot in Kyoto.
“What?! Here was a second house of Fujiwara san.” “I'd love to live in a place like this.”
“What?! Here was a second house of Fujiwara san.” “I'd love to live in a place like this.”
Byodoin in Uji: The Phoenix Hall of Byodoin, which is well known as it is depicted on the ten-yen coin. It remains as it was when it was built about 950 years ago, a time at the peak of the Fujiwara clan. It is no wonder that it was adopted as a coinage because of its imposing appearance. Once inside, 52 statues of bodhisattvas are mounted on the walls, each dancing, singing, and playing musical instruments, which are surprisingly modern and cute. It is worth viewing although it takes a little while from Kyoto City. It is highly recommended to include this site in your schedule. A 10 minute walk from Keihan Uji Station. Uji is a tea-producing area, and tea shops are lined up on the streets nearby.
1993 Mid-autumn
I thought autumn foliage could be seen anywhere. Apologies.
It costs just 700 yen to enjoy a cup of maccha tea, Japanese sweets, and even bathing in autumn leaves. What? And is it that I can stay as many hours as I like for that price?
It costs just 700 yen to enjoy a cup of maccha tea, Japanese sweets, and even bathing in autumn leaves. What? And is it that I can stay as many hours as I like for that price?
Rengeji in Kamitakano: Following the Takano River to the north, this small temple is located a little before Yase. It was moved from Rakuchu to this village at the beginning of the Edo period , and it is still standing quietly here. Passing through the sanmon gate decorated with maple leaves, there is the Shoin (the study hall). The garden is located in front of the shoin. There is a breathtaking crimson and yellow scenery spreading out around the pond, water of which is drown from the Koya-gawa River. You can see the best view through the columns as it is calculated to look like a folding screen painting. It is recommended to view the scenery at the back of the shoin (study hall) instead of on the external corridor. Take the Main Line of the Eizan Electric Railway to Miyake Hachiman Station and walk for 5 minutes. From 9:00 to 17:00 You can also enjoy maccha tea there.
1993 Mid-autumn
Maybe it’s cooler knowing deeply about Kyoto than knowing Paris or Los Angeles moderately.
It is often the case that foreign businessmen know Kyoto pretty well, isn’t it?
It is often the case that foreign businessmen know Kyoto pretty well, isn’t it?
Kiyomizu-dera in Higashiyama-ku: Kiyomizu-no-butai (stage of Kiyomizu) is located on the slope of Mt. Higashiyama and it is stretching out from the cliff. It is supported by huge zelkova pillars with a circumference of 2.3 m, without using a single nail. It is an incredible technique. By the way, from now on in particular, when the sun begins to set over the western mountains, the number of visitors will be much less. Looking down the street to the right is the brightly lit Shijo Street. It is nice to look closely at the town of Kyoto in its 1,200th year and wonder how crowded the Gion area must be by now. Take the Kyoto City Bus to “Kiyomizu-michi” bus stop and walk for 10 minutes. Sunset in Kyoto at the end of October is a little after 5 pm.