An Intimate Exploration into Kyoto: Serene Solitudes & Timeless Tales

— Article 5: Ancient Temples in Ohara Hill —

On April 23rd, 2022, I embarked on a journey to the Ohara region, situated 30 kilometers northeast of central Kyoto. For aficionados of Kyoto’s rich cultural tapestry, Ohara is an indispensable destination. Nestled amid serene hills and valleys, about ten temples stand as testaments to an era bygone, offering a distinctive charm that sets them apart from their counterparts in the bustling heart of Kyoto.

Pathway to Serenity: Traditional Houses En Route to Sanzenin Temple.

Elegance of the Past: More Traditional Houses Along the Sanzenin Trail.

The Majestic Gateway: Solemn Entrance to the Sanzenin Temple.

A Master’s Creation: The Shuhekien Garden in Sanzenin.

My exploration began at the bus stop, from where I meandered towards Sanzenin, the venerable heart of Ohara, through the hill and valley. Founded in the 8th century, the bishops of this temple have been relatives of the emperors. As I passed under the imposing entrance gate, a solemn reminder of the temple’s sacred purpose, I found myself within the architectural marvel of Kyakuden. From this vantage point, I was treated to the visual poetry of the Shuhekien Garden, a masterpiece crafted in the 17th century by the tea ceremony maestro, Sowa Kanamori.

Yuseien: A Verdant Haven at Sanzenin’s Heart.

Sanctuary of Tranquility: Ojojurakuin Amidst Yuseien’s Splendor.

The Yuseien, central to the Sanzenin’s spiritual landscape, is a terrestrial paradise. Here, the vibrancy of spring maple leaves forms a colorful canopy overhead while a carpet of lush moss blankets the earth beneath. In this ethereal setting stands the Ojojurakuin, a sanctuary housing a revered Buddha statue, embodying the spiritual essence of the temple.

The Central Edifice of Shorinin Temple.

Gardens of Reflection: The Serene Jikkoin, an Extension of Shorinin.

The area surrounding Sanzenin is dotted with several temples, each a unique repository of history and beauty. Shorinin, established in the 11th century, stands out for its historical significance. This temple has long been a center for monastic training, particularly renowned for preserving the Indian tradition of Buddhist sutra chanting.

If this is your first encounter with Kyoto’s serene beauty, I invite you to embark on an exploration starting with my previous piece: “An Intimate Exploration into Kyoto: Serene Solitudes & Timeless Tales — Article 1: Lesser Known Gems.”

Stay tuned for my forthcoming article dedicated to the enchanting wonders of the “Stay tuned for my forthcoming article dedicated to the enchanting wonders of the “ Tenryuji and Seiryoji, the Spiritual Heart of Arashiyama.”