Entsū-ji Temple — Attraction in Kyoto

Entsuji Temple belongs to Myoshin sect which is a branch of Rinzai sect of Buddhism. It was formerly Hataeda Palace. The temple was built in 1678 by a nun serving a mother of Emperor Gomizuno. When it was built the tenth head of Myoshinji Temple ( in Hanazono ) was appointed to become the first head priest of Entsuji. The temple holds a wooden block with engraved sutra sent from China and a scrool made by Emperor Reigen as its cultural treasure. The temple is known for the beauty of a Karesansui ( dry stone garden ) with a picturesque borrowed landscape of Mt. Hiei in the backdrop. The view of the Mt. Hiei from here has been designated as a national site of scenic beauty. There are about 40 stones in the garden that are arranged by Emperor Gosuio himself. The main object of worship is...

A friend translated the Monk’s story following our contemplation in the exquisite garden. She explained that the scene follows a term in Japanese that translates to “borrowed landscape”. As this is one of the few temples and gardens that’s view has remained unobstructed by urban sprawl or building. The borrowed landscape of the mountain landscape behind, seamlessly blends in to the garden and everything that lies between creating a harmonious place for quiet reflection and a reminder of the beautiful...

Mindblowing! I cannot express how I miss this place and its serenity. My favorite spot in Japan and perhaps in the world. You can visit Tadao Ando's open exhibition (see Garden of Fine Arts) near the subway in the same area in order to experience the continuity between traditional borrowed scenery and modern Japanese...