CEC diary [Kyoto/Arashiyama] “I am the garden and nature.” A journey through autumn leaves that reconsiders oneself

1. Self-exploration: Cherish your individuality

About a minute after leaving Arashiyama Station, something immediately caught my attention. Why do maple trees grown in the same environment have different shades? According to our guide, Miura-san, maple trees also have their own individuality. The maple leaves, which are dyed bright red, give a flashy and eccentric impression. On the other hand, dark colored maple leaves give a cool and calm impression. That's really interesting. I felt the beginning of a journey of self-exploration, learning from nature.

Maple trees in front of Arashiyama Station. The one on the left is flashy and the one on the right is cool.

2. Self-exploration: deep-rooted power to persevere

After walking for a few minutes from Arashiyama Station, we arrived at Katsuragawa River. The sound of the clear flowing river, the chirping of birds, and the impressive scenery of Togetsukyo Bridge with Arashiyama in the background almost drew me in. When we crossed Togetsukyo Bridge, it was crowded with many tourists. Everyone was in awe of the autumn leaves and the colors of Arashiyama. Impressive point 1 here! A "weeping maple" clings to the wall of the Fukuda Art Museum. Even though it was washed away by water, it still had strong roots and remained in place, showing a true sense of dignity.

A maple tree in front of the Fukuda Art Museum. There were so many people waiting in line for that famous restaurant, ARABICA Cafe!

3. Self-exploration: Having an unchanging core

After passing the museum, we finally saw the grounds of Tenryuji Temple. It is said that during the Muromachi period, it had an area of ​​100,000 tsubo. Impressive point ② here! The pine trees that grow all over the temple grounds remain unchanged throughout the seasons, so they are valued as the ideal shape to aim for in Zen. This shows the necessity of having an unwavering core.

Maple and pine trees in front of Ohojo. Things that change (momiji) and things that don't change (pine trees) are two sides of the same coin.

4. Self-exploration: The walls that stand in your way are those you set yourself.

Finally arrived! The garden of Tenryuji Temple is designated as a special scenic spot and is the number one national treasure of Japanese gardens.

The arrangement of rocks lining the pond looked like islands floating in the sea. The surrounding trees are reminiscent of a large forest. Arashiyama in the background seemed to reflect the Earth itself. As I gazed at this view, I felt at peace with myself and nature.

In fact, this garden contains Soseki Muso's thoughts about himself after he achieved enlightenment. Muso Soseki continues his long training towards enlightenment, but for some reason his heart is not satisfied. One day, when he stood up after completing his training, he got tired and tried to lean against a wall, but since there was no wall, he fell. In that moment, I realized that the only reason I wasn't satisfied was because I had built walls around my heart and suppressed myself. When he looked at the garden in the morning, he was moved by the beauty of nature and realized that he was one with free nature, and that nature was also free. deep! lol

in conclusion

There are various stories hidden in the nature of Arashiyama and Tenryuji Temple. Would you like to become one with nature and go on a journey of self-discovery?

Planning cooperation｜Maimai Kyoto

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