Kyoto

Sabi: Sad Beauty of Nanzenji

Rare views of Kyoto without crowds

Takako Sakamoto Oct 20, 2014 - 2 min read

<p>Successive arches of the canal tunnel: A popular angle for photographers!</p>

<p>The canal tunnel viewed from Nanzenin Temple</p>

<p>This is the gate on top of which the renowned thief of Japan 'Ishikawa Goemon' sat and spoke his famous line</p>

<p>In olden times, the view from this gate must have been 'What a great view, what a great view!' as Goemon said</p>

<p>Stone-paved path leading to Hatto Hall</p>

<p>Paved stones at Nanzen-in and a green bamboo rail</p>

<p>Beautiful layers of moss and snow on a thatched roof</p>

<p>Yellow fallen leaves in green garden</p>

This is the third and last story on Nanzenji Temple, which I visited in late January of 2011.

Enjoying the lack of things is how I understand the essence of Japan's 'Wabi Sabi' culture, which also leads to Zen perceptions. Nanzenji Temple at this time of year, in its bare simplicity, truly represents 'Wabi Sabi'. If you look at the first story of this series, "Miyabi: Subtle Beauty of Nanzenji", then this one, you'll see how different they are. Nanzenji in autumn is gorgeous, and you have to fight the crowds to enjoy it. Although I love Kyoto in autumn, I also love the tranquil Kyoto in winter! I highly recommend that you visit here in mid- winter to enjoy its serene beauty.

Nanzenji Temple; My Home Sweet Home 1. Miyabi: Subtle Beauty of Nanzenji 2. Wabi: Lonesome Beauty of Nanzenji 3. Sabi: Sad Beauty of Nanzenji

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Takako Sakamoto @takako.sakamoto

I was born in and grew up in Tokushima prefecture, and have lived in many places since then: Nishinomiya, Kyoto, Nara, Mie, Tokyo, Kanagawa, Saitama, Chiba, Fukuoka and Fukui. I am currently living in Yokohama City. All the places I lived, all the places I visited, I have loved dearly. The histor...