Unveiling the serene beauty of Tenjuan, a historic gem nestled within the Nanzenji Temple complex. 🏯🌳 This Zen temple, rich with history, is a testament to the power of spiritual enlightenment and resilience against time and strife. Constructed in 1337 in honor of Daiminkokushi Mukanfumon, a revered Zen master who rid Emperor Kameyama of a ghost through the simple power of Zazen meditation, Tenjuan has withstood conflagrations and wars, standing tall amidst centuries of turmoil. The temple was finally reconstructed in the late 16th century under the leadership of Genporeisan and the financial support of daimyô Hosokawa Yôsai, resulting in the magnificent structures we see today. Venturing within, you are greeted by two captivating gardens - the front, eastern garden, and the southern garden. The rock garden of the east boasts an intricately designed stone footpath, laid in 1338, nestled amidst a tranquil expanse of white sand and moss, creating a soothing harmony between nature and human craftsmanship. The southern garden is a glorious spectacle of late 14th-century landscaping, divided into two ponds with varied shorelines and central islands that epitomize the style of the era. A long peninsula extending from the study meets another to form a curling clasp, creating an intriguing dance between land and water. Visiting in late spring, I was fortunate to witness Tenjuan in full bloom. Everything was lush and vibrant, the greenery was an artist's dream, and the calm that enveloped the place was truly an embodiment of Zen. If you're ever in Kyoto, don't miss the chance to witness this slice of history, a testament to the enduring spirit of Zen Buddhism and the power of tranquil contemplation. 🍃🌸🇯🇵 Swipe left to immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Tenjuan. #Tenjuan #Nanzenji #Kyoto #Japan #Zen #Buddhism #History #Travel