Well, assuming it actually is a Zen garden of course, but regardless of whether it is or isn’t, there’s no doubting its wonderfully minimalist serenity.
The simple serenity of a Japanese Zen garden
Photographs from a small group of islands
Photographs from a small group of islands
Well, assuming it actually is a Zen garden of course, but regardless of whether it is or isn’t, there’s no doubting its wonderfully minimalist serenity.
Matt says
Very nice shot. There is just something so calming about this. Loving it after a very stressful day today.
Lee says
Cheers Matt. Great to hear it might have helped a little.
Ed says
The stone looks like a remote island in the middle of the Pacific.
Lee says
Yes, it does resemble an island. Slightly lonely, yet strangely serene. There’s an interesting article here about the design/appeal of Zen gardens.
NihonBurp says
These Zen gardens are amazing, I remember touring round Kyoto and seeing a fair few.
Lee says
Yes, I’m a big fan too. I can’t say why exactly, but there’s something relaxing and slightly mysterious about them.
Calissaja says
I love them and find them almost hypnotizing, but they’re too perfect; I have an overwhelming urge to kick up all the gravel or jump into the sand castle at Ginkakuji.
One of my best memories of my first year in Kyoto was visiting Ryoanji during Obon. It was super-hot and humid, the monks were chanting and burning incense, the gravel was blinding white reflecting the sun, and we were counting the rocks over and over, trying (and failing) to see them all. With the relentless heat and the incense and the chanting, it felt like a hallucination. I keep meaning to go back to try and recreate it, but Obon is so toasty warm that maybe I’ll just keep the memory.
Lee says
I know what you mean. But then I suppose if they weren’t so perfect, they probably wouldn’t be so fascinating. I almost stepped on the gravel when taking this photo actually. If I had, it’d probably have made me feel so guilty that I’d have had to flee the place!
I agree, with the summer heat, I’d keep that one as a memory. Sounds like it’d be hard to beat anywyay. Go back in spring or autumn instead.
winnie says
Beautiful shot!!
Feel relaxing after seeing this picture!!
thank you for sharing.
Lee says
You are welcome Winnie. Glad to hear the photo had the desired effect.