A beautiful contrast of the light and the shade

A beautiful contrast of the light and the shade (Photo: Haruka Saijo)

Untoan Temple in Minami-Uonuma

The No.1 Hermitage Temple in Japan and its lush beauty

Haruka Saijo Jul 08, 2013 - 1 min read

A beautiful contrast of the light and the shade

The tall woods of Untoan welcome us

Feeling spirited away

The moss spreads on the ground, just like a grass field

The second gate and the zori slippers hanging on the walls of the gate—they are for tying amulets, which you can buy inside the temple

It is said that if you walk along this stone-paved road by stepping firmly, you will receive the Buddha's blessings

Japanese maples are essential in traditional Japanese gardens

Ponds make you feel nice and cool during the heat

Normally photos are not allowed inside the main buildings of temples, but you don't have to worry about that here

These unique windows are in the shape of lotus flowers

They let the cool breeze flow into the temple during the summer

Walking around the garden is definitely recommended

You can rest inside the main temple and enjoy the moment of peace

Don't forget to have a sip of 'the water of longevity'

As I walked closer and closer towards the solemn wooden gates of Untoan, I began to feel as if I were spirited away – the scenery with numerous tall trees and the soft green moss that spreads out as a natural embellishment just perfectly fit my personal image of a mystic old temple at the foot of the mountain. Standing there taken aback, I found myself not being able to stop taking pictures of the pure beauty covering the place.

Haruka Saijo

Haruka Saijo @haruka.saijo

A Japanese university student that used to live in Canada, not so Japanese, loves traveling, enjoys experiencing anything new and exciting, and has passion for music.