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  • Jisso-in Tsukabaim kakei, water basin, tsukubai, japanese basin, chozubachi, chozuya, temizuya, tsukubai, Japanese Water Basin, Tranquility;  Simplicity; serene, serenity, exterior space, nature, pattern, scenic, visual effect, no people, scenery, tranquil, tranquility, calm, historic sites, natural light, natural beauty, spirituality, simplicity, natural, landscapes, inspiration, inspiring, calming, calms, contemplative, meditative, mellow, peaceful, pleasant, beautiful, calmness,  idyllic, ideal, peacefulness, serenity, serene, nobody,
    tsukabai-60.jpg
  • Japanese Tea Garden at Kokoen - Kokoen Garden; Kokoen; koko-en; himeji castle garden; himeji garden; japanese stepping stones; tobi-ishi; tobi ishi; skipping stones; flying stones; exterior space; landscape; landscape architecture; idyllic; Tranquility; Simplicity; japanese landscape architecture; exterior space; no people; scenery; tranquil; tranquility; calm; natural light; calming; calmness; peacefulness; serenity; serene; nobody; Soujuan Tea House; Soujuan Teahouse
    koko-en-53.jpg
  • Buddha Dhyana Mudra - Dhyana, or Samadhi mudra, is the hand gesture that promotes energy in meditation and contemplation.  The energy created by the triangle is formed when the thumbs of the two hands touch.  By practicing this gesture one connects to the energy of peace and serenity.
    dhyana-mudra-3.jpg
  • Buddha Dhyana Mudra - Dhyana, or Samadhi mudra, is the hand gesture that promotes energy in meditation and contemplation.  The energy created by the triangle is formed when the thumbs of the two hands touch.  By practicing this gesture one connects to the energy of peace and serenity.
    dhyana-mudra-2.jpg
  • Buddha Dhyana Mudra - Dhyana, or Samadhi mudra, is the hand gesture that promotes energy in meditation and contemplation.  The energy created by the triangle is formed when the thumbs of the two hands touch.  By practicing this gesture one connects to the energy of peace and serenity.
    dhyana-mudra-1.jpg
  • Yasukuni Shinchi Teien Sacred Pond Garden  -  this strolling garden was created in the early Meiji Era. Its centerpiece is a small waterfall located in a serene pond.  The garden was neglected for many years and left in ruins but was refurbished in 1999.  Its main features are a waterfall and koi pond and pond garden. The centerpiece is a serene pond with strolling paths around it.  Shinchi Teien or Sacred Pond Garden was established during the early Meiji period. This hidden garden is located adjacent to controversial Yasukuni Shrine.
    shinchi-teien-23.jpg
  • Yasukuni Shinchi Teien Sacred Pond Garden  -  this strolling garden was created in the early Meiji Era. Its centerpiece is a small waterfall located in a serene pond.  The garden was neglected for many years and left in ruins but was refurbished in 1999.  Its main features are a waterfall and koi pond and pond garden. The centerpiece is a serene pond with strolling paths around it.  Shinchi Teien or Sacred Pond Garden was established during the early Meiji period. This hidden garden is located adjacent to controversial Yasukuni Shrine.
    shinchi-teien-27.jpg
  • Yasukuni Shinchi Teien Sacred Pond Garden  -  this strolling garden was created in the early Meiji Era. Its centerpiece is a small waterfall located in a serene pond.  The garden was neglected for many years and left in ruins but was refurbished in 1999.  Its main features are a waterfall and koi pond and pond garden. The centerpiece is a serene pond with strolling paths around it.  Shinchi Teien or Sacred Pond Garden was established during the early Meiji period. This hidden garden is located adjacent to controversial Yasukuni Shrine.
    shinchi-teien-26.jpg
  • Yasukuni Shinchi Teien Sacred Pond Garden  -  this strolling garden was created in the early Meiji Era. Its centerpiece is a small waterfall located in a serene pond.  The garden was neglected for many years and left in ruins but was refurbished in 1999.  Its main features are a waterfall and koi pond and pond garden. The centerpiece is a serene pond with strolling paths around it.  Shinchi Teien or Sacred Pond Garden was established during the early Meiji period. This hidden garden is located adjacent to controversial Yasukuni Shrine.
    shinchi-teien-25.jpg
  • Yasukuni Shinchi Teien Sacred Pond Garden  -  this strolling garden was created in the early Meiji Era. Its centerpiece is a small waterfall located in a serene pond.  The garden was neglected for many years and left in ruins but was refurbished in 1999.  Its main features are a waterfall and koi pond and pond garden. The centerpiece is a serene pond with strolling paths around it.  Shinchi Teien or Sacred Pond Garden was established during the early Meiji period. This hidden garden is located adjacent to controversial Yasukuni Shrine.
    shinchi-teien-24.jpg
  • Originally created as a "Japanese Village" exhibit for the 1894 California Midwinter International Exposition, the Japanese Tea Garden at Golden Gate Park originally spanned about one acre. When the fair closed, Japanese landscape architect Makoto Hagiwara created a permanent Japanese garden as a gift for posterity.  Hagiwara became caretaker of the property, pouring all of his personal wealth and creative talents into creating a garden of perfection.  Hagiwara expanded the garden to its current size of approximately 5 acres. He and his family lived on the grounds for many years until 1942 when they were forced to evacuate their homes and put into internment camps. Today, the Japanese Tea Garden endures as one of the most popular attractions at Golden Gate Park, featuring an arched drum bridge, pagodas, stone lanterns, stepping stone paths, native Japanese plants, serene koi ponds and a zen garden.
    golden-gate-tea-7.jpg
  • Japanese Tea Garden Bridge - Originally created as a "Japanese Village" exhibit for the 1894 California Midwinter International Exposition, the Japanese Tea Garden at Golden Gate Park originally spanned about one acre. When the fair closed, Japanese landscape architect Makoto Hagiwara created a permanent Japanese garden as a gift for posterity.  Hagiwara became caretaker of the property, pouring all of his personal wealth and creative talents into creating a garden of perfection.  Hagiwara expanded the garden to its current size of approximately 5 acres. He and his family lived on the grounds for many years until 1942 when they were forced to evacuate their homes and put into internment camps. Today, the Japanese Tea Garden endures as one of the most popular attractions at Golden Gate Park, featuring an arched drum bridge, pagodas, stone lanterns, stepping stone paths, native Japanese plants, serene koi ponds and a zen garden.
    golden-gate-japanese-garden-7.jpg
  • Originally created as a "Japanese Village" exhibit for the 1894 California Midwinter International Exposition, the Japanese Tea Garden at Golden Gate Park originally spanned about one acre. When the fair closed, Japanese landscape architect Makoto Hagiwara created a permanent Japanese garden as a gift for posterity.  Hagiwara became caretaker of the property, pouring all of his personal wealth and creative talents into creating a garden of perfection.  Hagiwara expanded the garden to its current size of approximately 5 acres. He and his family lived on the grounds for many years until 1942 when they were forced to evacuate their homes and put into internment camps. Today, the Japanese Tea Garden endures as one of the most popular attractions at Golden Gate Park, featuring an arched drum bridge, pagodas, stone lanterns, stepping stone paths, native Japanese plants, serene koi ponds and a zen garden.
    golden-gate-japanese-garden-5.jpg
  • Originally created as a "Japanese Village" exhibit for the 1894 California Midwinter International Exposition, the Japanese Tea Garden at Golden Gate Park originally spanned about one acre. When the fair closed, Japanese landscape architect Makoto Hagiwara created a permanent Japanese garden as a gift for posterity.  Hagiwara became caretaker of the property, pouring all of his personal wealth and creative talents into creating a garden of perfection.  Hagiwara expanded the garden to its current size of approximately 5 acres. He and his family lived on the grounds for many years until 1942 when they were forced to evacuate their homes and put into internment camps. Today, the Japanese Tea Garden endures as one of the most popular attractions at Golden Gate Park, featuring an arched drum bridge, pagodas, stone lanterns, stepping stone paths, native Japanese plants, serene koi ponds and a zen garden.
    golden-gate-tea-3.jpg
  • Originally created as a "Japanese Village" exhibit for the 1894 California Midwinter International Exposition, the Japanese Tea Garden at Golden Gate Park originally spanned about one acre. When the fair closed, Japanese landscape architect Makoto Hagiwara created a permanent Japanese garden as a gift for posterity.  Hagiwara became caretaker of the property, pouring all of his personal wealth and creative talents into creating a garden of perfection.  Hagiwara expanded the garden to its current size of approximately 5 acres. He and his family lived on the grounds for many years until 1942 when they were forced to evacuate their homes and put into internment camps. Today, the Japanese Tea Garden endures as one of the most popular attractions at Golden Gate Park, featuring an arched drum bridge, pagodas, stone lanterns, stepping stone paths, native Japanese plants, serene koi ponds and a zen garden.
    golden-gate-tea-1.jpg
  • Yasukuni Shinchi Teien Sacred Pond Garden  -  this strolling garden was created in the early Meiji Era. Its centerpiece is a small waterfall located in a serene pond.  The garden was neglected for many years and left in ruins but was refurbished in 1999.  Its main features are a waterfall and koi pond and pond garden. The centerpiece is a serene pond with strolling paths around it.  Shinchi Teien or Sacred Pond Garden was established during the early Meiji period. This hidden garden is located adjacent to controversial Yasukuni Shrine.
    shinchi-teien-22.jpg
  • Yasukuni Shinchi Teien Sacred Pond Garden  -  this strolling garden was created in the early Meiji Era. Its centerpiece is a small waterfall located in a serene pond.  The garden was neglected for many years and left in ruins but was refurbished in 1999.  Its main features are a waterfall and koi pond and pond garden. The centerpiece is a serene pond with strolling paths around it.  Shinchi Teien or Sacred Pond Garden was established during the early Meiji period. This hidden garden is located adjacent to controversial Yasukuni Shrine.
    shinchi-teien-20.jpg
  • Japanese Tea Garden Bridge - Originally created as a "Japanese Village" exhibit for the 1894 California Midwinter International Exposition, the Japanese Tea Garden at Golden Gate Park originally spanned about one acre. When the fair closed, Japanese landscape architect Makoto Hagiwara created a permanent Japanese garden as a gift for posterity.  Hagiwara became caretaker of the property, pouring all of his personal wealth and creative talents into creating a garden of perfection.  Hagiwara expanded the garden to its current size of approximately 5 acres. He and his family lived on the grounds for many years until 1942 when they were forced to evacuate their homes and put into internment camps. Today, the Japanese Tea Garden endures as one of the most popular attractions at Golden Gate Park, featuring an arched drum bridge, pagodas, stone lanterns, stepping stone paths, native Japanese plants, serene koi ponds and a zen garden.
    golden-gate-japanese-garden-2.jpg
  • Shinchi Teien or Sacred Pond Garden was established during the early Meiji period.  Left dormant for many years, it was restored in 1999.  The centerpiece is a serene pond with strolling paths around it.  This secret garden is located adjacent to controversial Yasukuni Shrine.
    shinchi-08.jpg
  • Shinchi Teien or Sacred Pond Garden was established during the early Meiji period.  Left dormant for many years, it was restored in 1999.  The centerpiece is a serene pond with strolling paths around it.  This secret garden is located adjacent to controversial Yasukuni Shrine.
    September-10.jpg
  • Shinchi Teien or Sacred Pond Garden was established during the early Meiji period.  Left dormant for many years, it was restored in 1999.  The centerpiece is a serene pond with strolling paths around it.  This secret garden is located adjacent to controversial Yasukuni Shrine.
    shinchi-teien-9.jpg
  • Shinchi Teien or Sacred Pond Garden was established during the early Meiji period.  Left dormant for many years, it was restored in 1999.  The centerpiece is a serene pond with strolling paths around it.  This secret garden is located adjacent to controversial Yasukuni Shrine.
    shinchi-teien-8.jpg
  • Shinchi Teien or Sacred Pond Garden was established during the early Meiji period.  Left dormant for many years, it was restored in 1999.  The centerpiece is a serene pond with strolling paths around it.  This secret garden is located adjacent to controversial Yasukuni Shrine.
    shinchi-teien-5.jpg
  • Stepping Stones across a Rock Pond Garden in Hakone - A water source in a Japanese garden should appear to be part of the natural surroundings; this is why one will not find fountains in traditional gardens. Man-made streams are built with curves and irregularities to create a serene and natural appearance
    stepping-stones.jpg
  • Shinchi Teien or Sacred Pond Garden was established during the early Meiji period.  Left dormant for many years, it was restored in 1999.  The centerpiece is a serene pond with strolling paths around it.  This secret garden is located adjacent to controversial Yasukuni Shrine.
    shinchi-07.jpg
  • Shinchi Teien or Sacred Pond Garden was established during the early Meiji period.  Left dormant for many years, it was restored in 1999.  The centerpiece is a serene pond with strolling paths around it.  This secret garden is located adjacent to controversial Yasukuni Shrine.
    shinchi-04.jpg
  • Shinchi Teien or Sacred Pond Garden was established during the early Meiji period.  Left dormant for many years, it was restored in 1999.  The centerpiece is a serene pond with strolling paths around it.  This secret garden is located adjacent to controversial Yasukuni Shrine.
    shinchi-02.jpg
  • Shinchi Teien or Sacred Pond Garden was established during the early Meiji period.  Left dormant for many years, it was restored in 1999.  The centerpiece is a serene pond with strolling paths around it.  This secret garden is located adjacent to controversial Yasukuni Shrine.
    shinchi-01.jpg
  • Shinchi Teien or Sacred Pond Garden was established during the early Meiji period.  Left dormant for many years, it was restored in 1999.  The centerpiece is a serene pond with strolling paths around it.  This secret garden is located adjacent to controversial Yasukuni Shrine.
    shinchi-teien-7.jpg
  • Shinchi Teien or Sacred Pond Garden was established during the early Meiji period.  Left dormant for many years, it was restored in 1999.  The centerpiece is a serene pond with strolling paths around it.  This secret garden is located adjacent to controversial Yasukuni Shrine.
    shinchi-teien-6.jpg
  • Shinchi Teien or Sacred Pond Garden was established during the early Meiji period.  Left dormant for many years, it was restored in 1999.  The centerpiece is a serene pond with strolling paths around it.  This secret garden is located adjacent to controversial Yasukuni Shrine.
    shinchi-teien-4.jpg
  • Shinchi Teien or Sacred Pond Garden was established during the early Meiji period.  Left dormant for many years, it was restored in 1999.  The centerpiece is a serene pond with strolling paths around it.  This secret garden is located adjacent to controversial Yasukuni Shrine.
    shinchi-teien-3.jpg
  • Shinchi Teien or Sacred Pond Garden was established during the early Meiji period.  Left dormant for many years, it was restored in 1999.  The centerpiece is a serene pond with strolling paths around it.  This secret garden is located adjacent to controversial Yasukuni Shrine.
    shinchi-teien-2.jpg
  • Shinchi Teien or Sacred Pond Garden was established during the early Meiji period.  Left dormant for many years, it was restored in 1999.  The centerpiece is a serene pond with strolling paths around it.  This secret garden is located adjacent to controversial Yasukuni Shrine.
    AMBER-LOTUS-2023-170.jpg
  • Shinchi Teien or Sacred Pond Garden was established during the early Meiji period.  Left dormant for many years, it was restored in 1999.  The centerpiece is a serene pond with strolling paths around it.  This secret garden is located adjacent to controversial Yasukuni Shrine.
    AMBER-LOTUS-2023-169.jpg
  • Shinchi Teien or Sacred Pond Garden was established during the early Meiji period.  Left dormant for many years, it was restored in 1999.  The centerpiece is a serene pond with strolling paths around it.  This secret garden is located adjacent to controversial Yasukuni Shrine.
    shinchi-03.jpg
  • Shinchi Teien or Sacred Pond Garden was established during the early Meiji period.  Left dormant for many years, it was restored in 1999.  The centerpiece is a serene pond with strolling paths around it.  This secret garden is located adjacent to controversial Yasukuni Shrine.
    shinchi-09.jpg
  • Daijo-in garden was designed by Zenami in the mid Muromachi Period and fell into ruin with the demise of the temple of the same name. In 1958 the site was designated as a National Scenic Place then the Japan National Trust restored the garden to its original brilliance.  The former Daijo-in temple prospered as a temple whose chief priest was a member of the imperial family but now only the garden remains.
    AMBER-LOTUS-2023-55.jpg
  • Daijo-in garden was designed by Zenami in the mid Muromachi Period and fell into ruin with the demise of the temple of the same name. In 1958 the site was designated as a National Scenic Place then the Japan National Trust restored the garden to its original brilliance.  The former Daijo-in temple prospered as a temple whose chief priest was a member of the imperial family but now only the garden remains.
    AMBER-LOTUS-2023-20.jpg
  • The Moss Garden at Saihoji Temple is one of the few temples in Kyoto where visitors must request an invitation in advance before their visit. Visitors are required to participate in chanting and writing wishes before visiting the famous gardens. In this way the monks are able to maintain the temple and garden and prevent mass tourism from destroying the tranquility of the moss garden.
    AMBER-2022-17.jpg
  • The Moss Garden at Saihoji Temple is one of the few temples in Kyoto where visitors must request an invitation in advance before their visit. Visitors are required to participate in chanting and writing wishes before visiting the famous gardens. In this way the monks are able to maintain the temple and garden and prevent mass tourism from destroying the tranquility of the moss garden.
    AMBER-2021-EXTRA-101.jpg
  • The Moss Garden at Saihoji Temple is one of the few temples in Kyoto where visitors must request an invitation in advance before their visit. Visitors are required to participate in chanting and writing wishes before visiting the famous gardens. In this way the monks are able to maintain the temple and garden and prevent mass tourism from destroying the tranquility of the moss garden.
    AMBER-LOTUS-2023-82.jpg
  • Shomyoji was built by Sanetoki Hojo during the Kamakura period, and was made the Hojo family temple of the Kanazawa area. The Jodo style garden with Ajiike Pond in front of the main temple is its most unique feature when considering the arched bridge. The temple's bell was portrayed in the woodblock print "Shomyo-no-Bansho," one of eight prints depicting views of Kanazawa by Hiroshige Utagawa.
    AMBER-LOTUS-2023-218.jpg
  • Water is considered purifying in Japan, hence the emphasis on cleanliness in everyday life. Water fountains such as these, known as tsukubai, are also beneficial to hear the trickling of falling water to soothe the nerves as well. A tsukubai is a small basin provided at Japanese Buddhist temples for visitors to purify themselves by the ritual washing of hands and rinsing of the mouth. This type of ritual cleansing is also the custom for guests attending a tea ceremony. Tsukubai are usually of stone, and are often provided with a small scoop, laid across the top, ready for use.
    AMBER-LOTUS-2023-226.jpg
  • Kongorinji  Garden - These 500-year old gardens have been designated a Place of Scenic Beauty and it’s no wonder. Beautiful in any season.  The Ikezumi strolling garden at Kongorinji known as Myojuin though its creator is unknown, is especially popular during autumn.  This pond-viewing garden is intended to be viewed from the main hall, but these three combined gardens are connected as one, and the feeling of a strolling garden that goes around gardens of different times is now stronger because of it.  The colorful autumn leaves in deep red in late autumn are wonderful, it is the most spectacular garden in the three mountains of Koto.
    kongorinji-garden-1.jpg
  • Shobo-ji  Zen Garden - Shobo-ji was established in 754 by a monk called Chii - a disciple of Ganjin, who built Toshidai-ji in Nara.  Like many temples in Kyoto, Shobo-ji was burned during the wars, then reconstructed in 1615. The temple has two interesting zen gardens, particularly the "Beasts and Birds Garden” named after the shape of some of its rocks. The temple grounds are elevated compared to the rest of the valley, which gives a view of the surrounding area wthat incorporates borrowed scenery such as the distant mountains into the overall garden design.  Shobo-ji pays particular attention to flowers; ikebana can be seen on the temple grounds and in the buildings. In addition, the tsukubai water basin is usually decorated with flowers as well.
    shobo-ji-amber.jpg
  • Zuishin-in Pond Garden - Zuishin-in is a quiet temple removed from the Kyoto city center in Yamashina.  The temple is also called the Mandala Temple after a legend in which the founding priest’s mother had been reincarnated and had a priest make a mandala.  The famous poet Ono no Komachi is also strongly  connected to this temple, and items related to her are scattered around the temple halls and the gardens.  The garden is known for its small pond and abundant use of moss.  Zuishin-in’s appeal is in its seclusion, with the exception of the famous flowering plum season for which it is known.  Zuishinin temple belongs to the Shingon sect of Buddhism
    zuishin-in-1amber-2.jpg
  • Kaitokukan Tokyo University Garden - Marquis Toshinari Maeda, the 16th head of the Maeda Clan of the Kaga Domain, built a stately Western residence in the neo-baroque style in 1907 for receiving imperial visits. In 1926, the University of Tokyo reached an agreement with Marquis Maeda through which this residence and its property would be given to the University in exchange for University property in Komaba. The University named the residence Kaitokukan East Pavilionand used it as a facility for welcoming distinguished guests. In 1945, as a result of an air raid, the residence was completely destroyed. Kaitokukan was rebuilt in 1951 as a Japanese-style residence. The new Kaitokukan uses stones from the original Western-style residence in its foundation, while wood for the building was supplied by the University’s forests. The garden was designed by Hikoemon Ito, the Maeda Clan’s gardener. As well as the common characteristics of Japanese gardens from the late Meiji to Taisho periods, as well as the remains of the gardens built by the former lord of the Edo period in the modern city center of Tokyo. It is precious and has high artistic value in the history of modern Japanese gardens.  Kaitokukan is only open to the public one day of the year, on Todai's homecoming day, mid October each year.
    AMBER-LOTUS-2023-8.jpg
  • The main garden at Bishamon-do is called Bansuien or sometimes Yushuien. The Benten Pond behind the main hall uses a natural water spring drawn from Mt Anshoji to create a waterfall in back and a pond in front. In the pond are two islands, and the pond is surrounded by maple trees, crepe myrtle and azaleas. A stone pagoda stands on one of the islands as an accent to the rest of the composition. 
    Bishamon-do-6.jpg
  • Anao-ji Temple Garden is a pond viewing garden where azaleas, crepe myrtles and pine trees haven planted along the rim of the pond. There is a curiously shaped stone in the middle of the pond that some believe represents a ship, though its interpretation is not given. Additionally, there is a smaller dry garden on the western side of the main hall that incorporates Mt. Oshino in the backdrop.
    anao-ji-3.jpg
  • The official name is "Manmatsuyama Ryotanji Zen Temple has a long history, and it is said that Gyoki opened its predecessor, Jizo-ji, in 733 of the Nara period . The name Ryotanji is named after Naomori Ii .  the dry garden in front of the main hall Mt. Potalaka Garden is a relatively new garden created in the Heisei era. The front garden, because of its white sand shape it is popularly known locally as the Lake Hamana Garden.  The main pond-viewing garden on the north side of the main hall is a nationally designated scenic garden created by Kobori Enshu. According to the temple, it was built around 1630. The long horizontal pond is a Shin-ji pond, and the waterfall stone group is represented by a stone group that uses many azaleas, azaleas, and local chert stones in the artificial hill. 
    ryotan-ji-12.jpg
  • Jissoji is an ancient temple built in 1387 during the Nanbokucho period by the first disciple of the Mubun Zen master, Etsuo Zen Master, who opened the temple. The dry garden is a scenic spot designated by Shizuoka Prefecture. Jitsusoji Garden was discovered and rebuilt in 1994 by the Nakane Garden Research & Landscape, a gardening company in Iwata City. It is estimated that the garden was built around 1700 when the adjacent main hall and Kannon hall were maintained. Not only is it beautiful as a stone set and a dry garden, but the combination of these three artificial hills and the scenery of Mt. Mitake is very special.
    jisso-ji-02.jpg
  • The strolling garden at Kyorinbo was designed by Kobori Enshu during the Momoyama period . It is open for a limited time every year only on weekends and holidays in spring and in autumn.The pond-viewing garden facing the main hall where Tsurushima and Kameshima are represented by numerous rocks on the slope, the moss attached to the stone makes one feel the depth of history. There is also Kakejiku Garden that you can see from inside the main hall. In front of the Enshu Garden, the place where you can enjoy the bright red autumn leaves built at the end of the Muromachi period.  Kyorinbo was founded by Prince Shotoku. The temple name Kyorin is derived from the fact that the prince preached in the forest, and a large preaching rock and a sacred cave enshrining the principal image are left in the precincts. It is also called Stone Temple.
    kyorinbo-4.jpg
  • Taima-dera - the Inner Temple is called Okunoin and contains a Pure Land or Jyodo Garden rare in Japan. It is the largest garden representing the paradise shown in Taima Mandala with peonies and other flowers blooming  throughout the year.  Kobo Daishi was a visitor at this peony garden and deemed it Pure Land of this World. At Sainanin Temple which originated as a guardian temple of the back gate.  Three Gods of Mercy kannon are worshipped in the main hall here. In the Sainanin garden built during the Edo period, sound of suikinkutsu adds to the special atmosphere of the garden.  Nakanobo Temple is the oldest temple at Taimadera and contains the largest Buddha in the Taimadera complex.  It abounds in cultural properties such as Koguen Garden - a favorite of Emperor Gosai encompases a tea ceremony house with a round window.
    AMBER-LOTUS-2023-27.jpg
  • Kyoto Prefectural Guest House Garden - This small garden centers around a carp pond with an overlooking teahouse up on a hill in the background. There is a small waterfall that cascades into the pond from an artificial hill in the northeast corner. Natural stepping stones surround the pond, leading up to the teahouse. Both the garden and teahouse were designed and created by landscape architect Masuno Shunmyo.
    kyoto-prefecture-hall-garden-06.jpg
  • Kyoto Prefectural Guest House Garden - This small garden centers around a carp pond with an overlooking teahouse up on a hill in the background. There is a small waterfall that cascades into the pond from an artificial hill in the northeast corner. Natural stepping stones surround the pond, leading up to the teahouse. Both the garden and teahouse were designed and created by landscape architect Masuno Shunmyo.
    kyoto-prefecture-hall-garden-04.jpg
  • Kongorinji  Garden - These 500-year old gardens have been designated a Place of Scenic Beauty and it’s no wonder. Beautiful in any season.  The Ikezumi strolling garden at Kongorinji known as Myojuin though its creator is unknown, is especially popular during autumn.  This pond-viewing garden is intended to be viewed from the main hall, but these three combined gardens are connected as one, and the feeling of a strolling garden that goes around gardens of different times is now stronger because of it.  The colorful autumn leaves in deep red in late autumn are wonderful, it is the most spectacular garden in the three mountains of Koto.
    kongorinji-garden-2.jpg
  • Mio Shrine is a shrine in Takashima City and although its construction is unknown, it is an old shrine that has a record of existence from the year 765 in the Nara period.  There is a very unique three dimensional garden and double layer with two tiers, which occupies much of the domain, was completed in 1996.  It is called Mizuo Garden, though its designer is unclear.
    mio-shrine-garden-06-2.jpg
  • Seiganji Garden is characterized by the use of moss to represent water. It was built with the scenery of Mt. Tao as a borrowed landscape.  After heavy rain, the underground water seeps out and the dry landscape garden transforms into a pond garden. This Edo period garden is a two-sided garden that is extremely rare in Japan. The scenery where lush moss sinks on the bottom of the water and reflects off the surface of the water is truly exceptional beauty. When the Rakurakuen in Hikone Castle was built, stones were taken away from Seiganji though later a vassal of the Ii family who built Rakurakuen and Genkyuen Gardens, rebuilt it at the request of the priest at the time.  Seiganji is a Nationally Designated Scenic Spot.
    seiganji-amber-3.jpg
  • Bread and Espresso Garden has been renovated as a cafe from Former Kobayashi House a 210-year-old tangible cultural property designated by Kyoto Prefecture.  The thatched building was originally located in a rural area of Sonobe and relocated to the current location of Arashiyama.  The garden itself, which was created in the center of the store site, is a very new garden designed specifically to enhance the structures.
    kobayashi-espresso-chocolate-1.jpg
  • Jinnein Temple Garden - Jinnein shares a compound with next door Kannon-ji Temple No. 69. Jinneiin was transferred here by borrowing due to the law of separation of Buddhism and Shintoism.  If you look down on Ariake beach from the temple, you can see a coin-shaped circle made of sand, called Zenigata which was built in 1633 in imitation of a coin of the Kanei period.  Jinnein shares the compound with Kannonji Temple, temple 69.
    Jinnaen-2.jpg
  • Hiunkaku garden was created during the Taiso Period.  The garden is composed of two tsukiyama or miniature artificial mountains, punctuated by very large granite landscaping stones - most of which are placed in a way to be used as stepping stones which can be found throughout the garden.  Although the giant stones are very evident in the design, the gardens most outstanding feature is often overlooked, that of a dry riverbed known as a kare-gawa.  Few of the Takamatsu castle's original buildings remain only the Asahimon Gate and two turrets, the Ushitora Yagura and the Tsukimi Yagura, still stand. Inside the castle walls, however, visitors can enjoy a well kept garden.  At the center of the castle park stands the Hiunkaku with large tatami rooms overlooking the garden. Constructed in 1917 as a residence and governmental office, it is used today as an exhibition space and a community hall where tea ceremony and flower arrangement classes are held.
    hiunkaku-01.jpg
  • Saikyoji Garden - altogether there are four distinct gardens surrounding the temple’s main hall.  The most famous one is the Hyakuden Teien pond garden designed by Kobori Enshu during the Ido Period,  The pond is supposed to represent Lake Biwa nearby (others contend that the pond is in the shape of a rose)  with its backdrop slope punctuated with stones and satsuki bushes.  Adjacent to the pond is a sukiya style teahouse, an addition added during the Meiji Period that is almost never open to the public.   The second garden is called Dai Honbo Teien - its style is quite different from the Hyakuden Garden as it is composed of bushes in the tsukiyama style - its unique feature is of stepping stones embedded in the white sand “sea”. The third garden is the Shoin Teien, which is a dry garden created during the Meiji Period, and is composed of Sakamoto style masonry and stones.  The fourth main garden is Yashoiun Teien or Back Shoin Garden which was created much more recently by Shigetaro Nishimura a local landscaper and is considered a pond appreciation garden.
    saikyoji-12.jpg
  • Temple 34 Tanemaji -  The name Tanemaji means "seed sowing temple" which comes from the temple's founding legend that Kobo Daishi visited here on his return from China in the ninth century and planted seeds he had brought back with him: rice, wheat, two types of millet and beans. Known collectively as the Five Grains they have numerous cultural and religious associations.  As well as the thousands of pilgrims who visit the temple, Tanemaji also attracts many pregnant women because of the statue of Kosodate Kannon - a child-rearing Kannon, and so these women buy a wooden water dipper and have it blessed by the priest.  If their child is born safely then the bottom of the dipper is punched out and hung around the statue.
    tanemaji-1.jpg
  • Bell Tower at Tanemaji - Temple 34 Tanemaji -  The name Tanemaji means "seed sowing temple" which comes from the temple's founding legend that Kobo Daishi visited here on his return from China in the ninth century and planted seeds he had brought back with him: rice, wheat, two types of millet and beans. Known collectively as the Five Grains they have numerous cultural and religious associations.  As well as the thousands of pilgrims who visit the temple, Tanemaji also attracts many pregnant women because of the statue of Kosodate Kannon - a child-rearing Kannon, and so these women buy a wooden water dipper and have it blessed by the priest.  If their child is born safely then the bottom of the dipper is punched out and hung around the statue.
    tanemaji-6.jpg
  • Bell Tower at Tanemaji - Temple 34 Tanemaji -  The name Tanemaji means "seed sowing temple" which comes from the temple's founding legend that Kobo Daishi visited here on his return from China in the ninth century and planted seeds he had brought back with him: rice, wheat, two types of millet and beans. Known collectively as the Five Grains they have numerous cultural and religious associations.  As well as the thousands of pilgrims who visit the temple, Tanemaji also attracts many pregnant women because of the statue of Kosodate Kannon - a child-rearing Kannon, and so these women buy a wooden water dipper and have it blessed by the priest.  If their child is born safely then the bottom of the dipper is punched out and hung around the statue.
    tanemaji-7.jpg
  • Temple 43 Meisekiji, is officially named Genkozan Meisekiji, has a strange history of attached to it and has been worshiped since ancient times as a sacred place where the thousand-handed Kannon Bodhisattva is shown. In the first half of the sixth century a pedestrian named Masazumi Entein erected a temple of the Seven Hands Kannon Bodhisattva.. In 822 Kobo Daishi visited this area. After seeing the ruined temple, Daishi received a royal order to revive the temple.  Since then, it became a holy place for the lord of the Saionji family during the Muromachi period, and for the Uwajima clan and the Date family during the Edo period. Its claim to fame is the Kannon statue behind the hall, wearing a long kimono, and a water container in her left hand.
    meisekiji-6.jpg
  • Temple 43 Meisekiji, is officially named Genkozan Meisekiji, has a strange history of attached to it and has been worshiped since ancient times as a sacred place where the thousand-handed Kannon Bodhisattva is shown. In the first half of the sixth century a pedestrian named Masazumi Entein erected a temple of the Seven Hands Kannon Bodhisattva.. In 822 Kobo Daishi visited this area. After seeing the ruined temple, Daishi received a royal order to revive the temple.  Since then, it became a holy place for the lord of the Saionji family during the Muromachi period, and for the Uwajima clan and the Date family during the Edo period. Its claim to fame is the Kannon statue behind the hall, wearing a long kimono, and a water container in her left hand.
    meisekiji-4.jpg
  • Temple 43 Meisekiji, is officially named Genkozan Meisekiji, has a strange history of attached to it and has been worshiped since ancient times as a sacred place where the thousand-handed Kannon Bodhisattva is shown. In the first half of the sixth century a pedestrian named Masazumi Entein erected a temple of the Seven Hands Kannon Bodhisattva.. In 822 Kobo Daishi visited this area. After seeing the ruined temple, Daishi received a royal order to revive the temple.  Since then, it became a holy place for the lord of the Saionji family during the Muromachi period, and for the Uwajima clan and the Date family during the Edo period. Its claim to fame is the Kannon statue behind the hall, wearing a long kimono, and a water container in her left hand.
    meisekiji-3.jpg
  • Temple 43 Meisekiji, is officially named Genkozan Meisekiji, has a strange history of attached to it and has been worshiped since ancient times as a sacred place where the thousand-handed Kannon Bodhisattva is shown. In the first half of the sixth century a pedestrian named Masazumi Entein erected a temple of the Seven Hands Kannon Bodhisattva.. In 822 Kobo Daishi visited this area. After seeing the ruined temple, Daishi received a royal order to revive the temple.  Since then, it became a holy place for the lord of the Saionji family during the Muromachi period, and for the Uwajima clan and the Date family during the Edo period. Its claim to fame is the Kannon statue behind the hall, wearing a long kimono, and a water container in her left hand.
    meisekiji-2.jpg
  • Temple 38 Kongofuku-ji - Stone garden rockery at Kongofuku-ji -  The overlooks Cape Ashizuri and the Pacific Ocean at the tip of the Ashizuri Peninsula, it has always enjoyed the patronage of aristocrats, warriors, and noble clans like the Minamoto, Chosokabe, and Yamanouchi. Consequently it survived intact through the early Meiji years when other temples suffered damage. The temple stands in a garden of colourful stones, which are reflected in a large pond. There are numerous pines, and the hill behind the temple is cloaked in windswept trees. Cape Ashizuri is the southernmost point of Shikoku, infamous throughout Japan for its fierce and changeable weather. Kogofukuji is also one of the most dramatic and picturesque of all the 88 temples, thanks to its remote location overlooking Cape Ashizuri.
    kongofukuji-garden-3.jpg
  • Temple 38 Kongofuku-ji - Kongofuku-ji overlooks Cape Ashizuri and the Pacific Ocean at the tip of the Ashizuri Peninsula, it has always enjoyed the patronage of aristocrats, warriors, and noble clans like the Minamoto, Chosokabe, and Yamanouchi. Consequently it survived intact through the early Meiji years when other temples suffered damage. The temple stands in a garden of colourful stones, which are reflected in a large pond. There are numerous pines, and the hill behind the temple is cloaked in windswept trees. Cape Ashizuri is the southernmost point of Shikoku, infamous throughout Japan for its fierce and changeable weather. Kogofukuji is also one of the most dramatic and picturesque of all the 88 temples, thanks to its remote location overlooking Cape Ashizuri.
    kongofukuji-7.jpg
  • Temple 38 Kongofuku-ji - Kongofuku-ji overlooks Cape Ashizuri and the Pacific Ocean at the tip of the Ashizuri Peninsula, it has always enjoyed the patronage of aristocrats, warriors, and noble clans like the Minamoto, Chosokabe, and Yamanouchi. Consequently it survived intact through the early Meiji years when other temples suffered damage. The temple stands in a garden of colourful stones, which are reflected in a large pond. There are numerous pines, and the hill behind the temple is cloaked in windswept trees. Cape Ashizuri is the southernmost point of Shikoku, infamous throughout Japan for its fierce and changeable weather. Kogofukuji is also one of the most dramatic and picturesque of all the 88 temples, thanks to its remote location overlooking Cape Ashizuri.
    kongofukuji-4.jpg
  • Temple 26 Kongochoji was in former times a very large and powerful temple in the region, founded by Kobo Daishi.  Some scholars argue that it was here and not at the tip of Cape Muroto where he spent his time and achieved enlightenment.  There are several famous legends concerning Kobo Daishi at this temple, the first being that he was bothered by a long-nosed forest goblin while he was here.  The great sage engaged it in a debate and as the goblin lost and he was banished to Cape Ashizuri far to the West. Another story is that Kobo Daishi carved the statue of Yakushi Nyorai, the Medicine Buddha, that is the main deity of the temple. The statue was supposedly so lifelike that it walked to the altar by itself. The temple has a treasure house which holds many items dating back to Kobo Daishi’s time, though this is normally not open to the public.
    kongochoji-3.jpg
  • Temple 35 Kiyotakiji -  Kiyotakiji is known as the 'Clean Waterfall Temple'. The temple’s name, Kiyotaki pure waterfall comes from the legend that Kobo Daishi, after praying for an abundant harvest, struck his staff on the ground and pure water came out and turned into a waterfall. The five story pagoda was built by a prince who had stayed at Kiyotaki for a year before traveling to India. Legend has it that he was eaten by a tiger, but his soul remains in the pagoda and protects the temple from misfortune. During the Edo Period the temple flourished, but by 1871 the temple was in ruins and not restored until 1880.
    kiyotakiji-6.jpg
  • Temple 35 Kiyotakiji -  Kiyotakiji is known as the 'Clean Waterfall Temple'. The temple’s name, Kiyotaki pure waterfall comes from the legend that Kobo Daishi, after praying for an abundant harvest, struck his staff on the ground and pure water came out and turned into a waterfall. The five story pagoda was built by a prince who had stayed at Kiyotaki for a year before traveling to India. Legend has it that he was eaten by a tiger, but his soul remains in the pagoda and protects the temple from misfortune. During the Edo Period the temple flourished, but by 1871 the temple was in ruins and not restored until 1880.
    kiyotakiji-2.jpg
  • Temple 44 Daihoji 'The temple of Great Treasure' stands in a forest of ancient cedar and cypress trees in the area known as Kuma Highland in central Ehime.  Kuma is the name of a woman who is said to have lived all alone in this once poor area. When Kobo Daishi passed through, she begged him to provide her with company, so he miraculously produced a river. Crops could then be grown and farmers appeared, bringing Kuma the companionship she craved. The town that they established is named after her.  Kuma Highland is often cloaked in mist, and the trees are mossy and damp - the main impression of any visitor to Daiho-ji is the awe-inspiring presence of Nature.
    daihoji-ehime-3.jpg
  • Incense at Meisekiji - Temple 43 Meisekiji, is officially named Genkozan Meisekiji, has a strange history of attached to it and has been worshiped since ancient times as a sacred place where the thousand-handed Kannon Bodhisattva is shown. In the first half of the sixth century a pedestrian named Masazumi Entein erected a temple of the Seven Hands Kannon Bodhisattva.. In 822 Kobo Daishi visited this area. After seeing the ruined temple, Daishi received a royal order to revive the temple.  Since then, it became a holy place for the lord of the Saionji family during the Muromachi period, and for the Uwajima clan and the Date family during the Edo period. Its claim to fame is the Kannon statue behind the hall, wearing a long kimono, and a water container in her left hand.
    meisekiji-10.jpg
  • Temple 43 Meisekiji, is officially named Genkozan Meisekiji, has a strange history of attached to it and has been worshiped since ancient times as a sacred place where the thousand-handed Kannon Bodhisattva is shown. In the first half of the sixth century a pedestrian named Masazumi Entein erected a temple of the Seven Hands Kannon Bodhisattva.. In 822 Kobo Daishi visited this area. After seeing the ruined temple, Daishi received a royal order to revive the temple.  Since then, it became a holy place for the lord of the Saionji family during the Muromachi period, and for the Uwajima clan and the Date family during the Edo period. Its claim to fame is the Kannon statue behind the hall, wearing a long kimono, and a water container in her left hand.
    meisekiji-5.jpg
  • Temple 43 Meisekiji, is officially named Genkozan Meisekiji, has a strange history of attached to it and has been worshiped since ancient times as a sacred place where the thousand-handed Kannon Bodhisattva is shown. In the first half of the sixth century a pedestrian named Masazumi Entein erected a temple of the Seven Hands Kannon Bodhisattva.. In 822 Kobo Daishi visited this area. After seeing the ruined temple, Daishi received a royal order to revive the temple.  Since then, it became a holy place for the lord of the Saionji family during the Muromachi period, and for the Uwajima clan and the Date family during the Edo period. Its claim to fame is the Kannon statue behind the hall, wearing a long kimono, and a water container in her left hand.
    meisekiji-1.jpg
  • Temple 38 Kongofuku-ji - Stone garden rockery at Kongofuku-ji -  The overlooks Cape Ashizuri and the Pacific Ocean at the tip of the Ashizuri Peninsula, it has always enjoyed the patronage of aristocrats, warriors, and noble clans like the Minamoto, Chosokabe, and Yamanouchi. Consequently it survived intact through the early Meiji years when other temples suffered damage. The temple stands in a garden of colourful stones, which are reflected in a large pond. There are numerous pines, and the hill behind the temple is cloaked in windswept trees. Cape Ashizuri is the southernmost point of Shikoku, infamous throughout Japan for its fierce and changeable weather. Kogofukuji is also one of the most dramatic and picturesque of all the 88 temples, thanks to its remote location overlooking Cape Ashizuri.
    kongofukuji-garden-8.jpg
  • Temple 38 Kongofuku-ji - Stone garden rockery at Kongofuku-ji -  The overlooks Cape Ashizuri and the Pacific Ocean at the tip of the Ashizuri Peninsula, it has always enjoyed the patronage of aristocrats, warriors, and noble clans like the Minamoto, Chosokabe, and Yamanouchi. Consequently it survived intact through the early Meiji years when other temples suffered damage. The temple stands in a garden of colourful stones, which are reflected in a large pond. There are numerous pines, and the hill behind the temple is cloaked in windswept trees. Cape Ashizuri is the southernmost point of Shikoku, infamous throughout Japan for its fierce and changeable weather. Kogofukuji is also one of the most dramatic and picturesque of all the 88 temples, thanks to its remote location overlooking Cape Ashizuri.
    kongofukuji-garden-4.jpg
  • Temple 38 Kongofuku-ji - Stone garden rockery at Kongofuku-ji -  The overlooks Cape Ashizuri and the Pacific Ocean at the tip of the Ashizuri Peninsula, it has always enjoyed the patronage of aristocrats, warriors, and noble clans like the Minamoto, Chosokabe, and Yamanouchi. Consequently it survived intact through the early Meiji years when other temples suffered damage. The temple stands in a garden of colourful stones, which are reflected in a large pond. There are numerous pines, and the hill behind the temple is cloaked in windswept trees. Cape Ashizuri is the southernmost point of Shikoku, infamous throughout Japan for its fierce and changeable weather. Kogofukuji is also one of the most dramatic and picturesque of all the 88 temples, thanks to its remote location overlooking Cape Ashizuri.
    kongofukuji-garden-2.jpg
  • Lucky Turtle at Kongofukuji - Temple 38 Kongofuku-ji - Kongofuku-ji overlooks Cape Ashizuri and the Pacific Ocean at the tip of the Ashizuri Peninsula, it has always enjoyed the patronage of aristocrats, warriors, and noble clans like the Minamoto, Chosokabe, and Yamanouchi. Consequently it survived intact through the early Meiji years when other temples suffered damage. The temple stands in a garden of colourful stones, which are reflected in a large pond. There are numerous pines, and the hill behind the temple is cloaked in windswept trees. Cape Ashizuri is the southernmost point of Shikoku, infamous throughout Japan for its fierce and changeable weather. Kogofukuji is also one of the most dramatic and picturesque of all the 88 temples, thanks to its remote location overlooking Cape Ashizuri.
    kongofukuji-10.jpg
  • Temple 38 Kongofuku-ji - Kongofuku-ji overlooks Cape Ashizuri and the Pacific Ocean at the tip of the Ashizuri Peninsula, it has always enjoyed the patronage of aristocrats, warriors, and noble clans like the Minamoto, Chosokabe, and Yamanouchi. Consequently it survived intact through the early Meiji years when other temples suffered damage. The temple stands in a garden of colourful stones, which are reflected in a large pond. There are numerous pines, and the hill behind the temple is cloaked in windswept trees. Cape Ashizuri is the southernmost point of Shikoku, infamous throughout Japan for its fierce and changeable weather. Kogofukuji is also one of the most dramatic and picturesque of all the 88 temples, thanks to its remote location overlooking Cape Ashizuri.
    kongofukuji-9.jpg
  • Temple 38 Kongofuku-ji - Kongofuku-ji overlooks Cape Ashizuri and the Pacific Ocean at the tip of the Ashizuri Peninsula, it has always enjoyed the patronage of aristocrats, warriors, and noble clans like the Minamoto, Chosokabe, and Yamanouchi. Consequently it survived intact through the early Meiji years when other temples suffered damage. The temple stands in a garden of colourful stones, which are reflected in a large pond. There are numerous pines, and the hill behind the temple is cloaked in windswept trees. Cape Ashizuri is the southernmost point of Shikoku, infamous throughout Japan for its fierce and changeable weather. Kogofukuji is also one of the most dramatic and picturesque of all the 88 temples, thanks to its remote location overlooking Cape Ashizuri.
    kongofukuji-8.jpg
  • Temple 38 Kongofuku-ji - Kongofuku-ji overlooks Cape Ashizuri and the Pacific Ocean at the tip of the Ashizuri Peninsula, it has always enjoyed the patronage of aristocrats, warriors, and noble clans like the Minamoto, Chosokabe, and Yamanouchi. Consequently it survived intact through the early Meiji years when other temples suffered damage. The temple stands in a garden of colourful stones, which are reflected in a large pond. There are numerous pines, and the hill behind the temple is cloaked in windswept trees. Cape Ashizuri is the southernmost point of Shikoku, infamous throughout Japan for its fierce and changeable weather. Kogofukuji is also one of the most dramatic and picturesque of all the 88 temples, thanks to its remote location overlooking Cape Ashizuri.
    kongofukuji-6.jpg
  • Temple 38 Kongofuku-ji - Kongofuku-ji overlooks Cape Ashizuri and the Pacific Ocean at the tip of the Ashizuri Peninsula, it has always enjoyed the patronage of aristocrats, warriors, and noble clans like the Minamoto, Chosokabe, and Yamanouchi. Consequently it survived intact through the early Meiji years when other temples suffered damage. The temple stands in a garden of colourful stones, which are reflected in a large pond. There are numerous pines, and the hill behind the temple is cloaked in windswept trees. Cape Ashizuri is the southernmost point of Shikoku, infamous throughout Japan for its fierce and changeable weather. Kogofukuji is also one of the most dramatic and picturesque of all the 88 temples, thanks to its remote location overlooking Cape Ashizuri.
    kongofukuji-5.jpg
  • Temple 38 Kongofuku-ji - Kongofuku-ji overlooks Cape Ashizuri and the Pacific Ocean at the tip of the Ashizuri Peninsula, it has always enjoyed the patronage of aristocrats, warriors, and noble clans like the Minamoto, Chosokabe, and Yamanouchi. Consequently it survived intact through the early Meiji years when other temples suffered damage. The temple stands in a garden of colourful stones, which are reflected in a large pond. There are numerous pines, and the hill behind the temple is cloaked in windswept trees. Cape Ashizuri is the southernmost point of Shikoku, infamous throughout Japan for its fierce and changeable weather. Kogofukuji is also one of the most dramatic and picturesque of all the 88 temples, thanks to its remote location overlooking Cape Ashizuri.
    kongofukuji-3.jpg
  • Temple 26 Kongochoji was in former times a very large and powerful temple in the region, founded by Kobo Daishi.  Some scholars argue that it was here and not at the tip of Cape Muroto where he spent his time and achieved enlightenment.  There are several famous legends concerning Kobo Daishi at this temple, the first being that he was bothered by a long-nosed forest goblin while he was here.  The great sage engaged it in a debate and as the goblin lost and he was banished to Cape Ashizuri far to the West. Another story is that Kobo Daishi carved the statue of Yakushi Nyorai, the Medicine Buddha, that is the main deity of the temple. The statue was supposedly so lifelike that it walked to the altar by itself. The temple has a treasure house which holds many items dating back to Kobo Daishi’s time, though this is normally not open to the public.
    kongochoji-4.jpg
  • Temple 26 Kongochoji was in former times a very large and powerful temple in the region, founded by Kobo Daishi.  Some scholars argue that it was here and not at the tip of Cape Muroto where he spent his time and achieved enlightenment.  There are several famous legends concerning Kobo Daishi at this temple, the first being that he was bothered by a long-nosed forest goblin while he was here.  The great sage engaged it in a debate and as the goblin lost and he was banished to Cape Ashizuri far to the West. Another story is that Kobo Daishi carved the statue of Yakushi Nyorai, the Medicine Buddha, that is the main deity of the temple. The statue was supposedly so lifelike that it walked to the altar by itself. The temple has a treasure house which holds many items dating back to Kobo Daishi’s time, though this is normally not open to the public.
    kongochoji-1.jpg
  • Temple 26 Kongochoji was in former times a very large and powerful temple in the region, founded by Kobo Daishi.  Some scholars argue that it was here and not at the tip of Cape Muroto where he spent his time and achieved enlightenment.  There are several famous legends concerning Kobo Daishi at this temple, the first being that he was bothered by a long-nosed forest goblin while he was here.  The great sage engaged it in a debate and as the goblin lost and he was banished to Cape Ashizuri far to the West. Another story is that Kobo Daishi carved the statue of Yakushi Nyorai, the Medicine Buddha, that is the main deity of the temple. The statue was supposedly so lifelike that it walked to the altar by itself. The temple has a treasure house which holds many items dating back to Kobo Daishi’s time, though this is normally not open to the public.
    kongochoji-2.jpg
  • Temple 35 Kiyotakiji -  Kiyotakiji is known as the 'Clean Waterfall Temple'. The temple’s name, Kiyotaki pure waterfall comes from the legend that Kobo Daishi, after praying for an abundant harvest, struck his staff on the ground and pure water came out and turned into a waterfall. The five story pagoda was built by a prince who had stayed at Kiyotaki for a year before traveling to India. Legend has it that he was eaten by a tiger, but his soul remains in the pagoda and protects the temple from misfortune. During the Edo Period the temple flourished, but by 1871 the temple was in ruins and not restored until 1880.
    kiyotakiji-1.jpg
  • Temple 44 Daihoji 'The temple of Great Treasure' stands in a forest of ancient cedar and cypress trees in the area known as Kuma Highland in central Ehime.  Kuma is the name of a woman who is said to have lived all alone in this once poor area. When Kobo Daishi passed through, she begged him to provide her with company, so he miraculously produced a river. Crops could then be grown and farmers appeared, bringing Kuma the companionship she craved. The town that they established is named after her.  Kuma Highland is often cloaked in mist, and the trees are mossy and damp - the main impression of any visitor to Daiho-ji is the awe-inspiring presence of Nature.
    daihoji-ehime-9.jpg
  • Temple 44 Daihoji 'The temple of Great Treasure' stands in a forest of ancient cedar and cypress trees in the area known as Kuma Highland in central Ehime.  Kuma is the name of a woman who is said to have lived all alone in this once poor area. When Kobo Daishi passed through, she begged him to provide her with company, so he miraculously produced a river. Crops could then be grown and farmers appeared, bringing Kuma the companionship she craved. The town that they established is named after her.  Kuma Highland is often cloaked in mist, and the trees are mossy and damp - the main impression of any visitor to Daiho-ji is the awe-inspiring presence of Nature.
    daihoji-ehime-7.jpg
  • Temple 43 Meisekiji, is officially named Genkozan Meisekiji, has a strange history of attached to it and has been worshiped since ancient times as a sacred place where the thousand-handed Kannon Bodhisattva is shown. In the first half of the sixth century a pedestrian named Masazumi Entein erected a temple of the Seven Hands Kannon Bodhisattva.. In 822 Kobo Daishi visited this area. After seeing the ruined temple, Daishi received a royal order to revive the temple.  Since then, it became a holy place for the lord of the Saionji family during the Muromachi period, and for the Uwajima clan and the Date family during the Edo period. Its claim to fame is the Kannon statue behind the hall, wearing a long kimono, and a water container in her left hand.
    meisekiji-11.jpg
  • Temple 43 Meisekiji, is officially named Genkozan Meisekiji, has a strange history of attached to it and has been worshiped since ancient times as a sacred place where the thousand-handed Kannon Bodhisattva is shown. In the first half of the sixth century a pedestrian named Masazumi Entein erected a temple of the Seven Hands Kannon Bodhisattva.. In 822 Kobo Daishi visited this area. After seeing the ruined temple, Daishi received a royal order to revive the temple.  Since then, it became a holy place for the lord of the Saionji family during the Muromachi period, and for the Uwajima clan and the Date family during the Edo period. Its claim to fame is the Kannon statue behind the hall, wearing a long kimono, and a water container in her left hand.
    meisekiji-9.jpg
  • Temple 38 Kongofuku-ji - Stone garden rockery at Kongofuku-ji -  The overlooks Cape Ashizuri and the Pacific Ocean at the tip of the Ashizuri Peninsula, it has always enjoyed the patronage of aristocrats, warriors, and noble clans like the Minamoto, Chosokabe, and Yamanouchi. Consequently it survived intact through the early Meiji years when other temples suffered damage. The temple stands in a garden of colourful stones, which are reflected in a large pond. There are numerous pines, and the hill behind the temple is cloaked in windswept trees. Cape Ashizuri is the southernmost point of Shikoku, infamous throughout Japan for its fierce and changeable weather. Kogofukuji is also one of the most dramatic and picturesque of all the 88 temples, thanks to its remote location overlooking Cape Ashizuri.
    kongofukuji-garden-5.jpg
  • Temple 38 Kongofuku-ji - Kongofuku-ji overlooks Cape Ashizuri and the Pacific Ocean at the tip of the Ashizuri Peninsula, it has always enjoyed the patronage of aristocrats, warriors, and noble clans like the Minamoto, Chosokabe, and Yamanouchi. Consequently it survived intact through the early Meiji years when other temples suffered damage. The temple stands in a garden of colourful stones, which are reflected in a large pond. There are numerous pines, and the hill behind the temple is cloaked in windswept trees. Cape Ashizuri is the southernmost point of Shikoku, infamous throughout Japan for its fierce and changeable weather. Kogofukuji is also one of the most dramatic and picturesque of all the 88 temples, thanks to its remote location overlooking Cape Ashizuri.
    kongofukuji-2.jpg
  • Temple 35 Kiyotakiji -  Kiyotakiji is known as the 'Clean Waterfall Temple'. The temple’s name, Kiyotaki pure waterfall comes from the legend that Kobo Daishi, after praying for an abundant harvest, struck his staff on the ground and pure water came out and turned into a waterfall. The five story pagoda was built by a prince who had stayed at Kiyotaki for a year before traveling to India. Legend has it that he was eaten by a tiger, but his soul remains in the pagoda and protects the temple from misfortune. During the Edo Period the temple flourished, but by 1871 the temple was in ruins and not restored until 1880.
    kiyotakiji-5.jpg
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