 |
| Statue of Buddha in the Ryoanji gardens |
The sun was shining when we arrived to Kyoto. Getting off the taxi at Ryoanji temple we were greeted by the scents of different flowers and fresh air after rain. We were baffled by the beautiful simplicity of the Ryoanji stone garden, and the meticulously groomed yet somehow very natural surrounding area of the temple.
 |
| Ryoanji stone garden |
Looking closely what might initially seem simple can be comprised of many parts and have many hidden meanings. The Ryoanji stone garden, where no matter what angle you look at the stones you will always count one less than the actual number, is one example. One can only vaguely imagine how much work, persistance and commitment it must have taken to plan the positioning of the stones just so.
The same thought can be found in a lot of what we have experienced in Japan. For example the longevity of growing a bonsai tree, training to become a geisha, mastering the art of Sushi or becoming a buddhist monk - they all take time, focus, commitment, perseverance and dedication. In the end they create a simple yet elegant product with many sides to it.
 |
| Peaceful scenery (Ryoanji temple) |
 |
| Salt, lemon and daikon |
Today we had the privilege of observing the making of tempura at the Tensou restaurant (link to website), and enjoying the elegant result.
 |
| Fresh and simple... |
The lunch consisted of a selection of small dishes honed to perfection with precise temperatures and cooking times.
 |
| ... but made with care |
The dishes were prepared one by one, right in front of us from fresh seasonal ingredients - and it was delicious!
 |
| Simple in its own shiny way, the Kinkaku Golden Pavilion |
Simplified does not mean plain. It requires a certain mindset of
curiousity and genuine interest to be able to notice the richness of
simplicity. This is something we've learned today. Even the brightest
golden temple of Kinkaku is surrounded by a simple and natural
landscape, and therefore becoming the main essence and focus of the
area.
 |
| Kiyomizu temple |
Walking around the busy Nishiki-ichiba market and the streets of Kyoto we had a conversation with Etsuko-san. Enjoying the simple things in life, such as good food, afternoon nap or a relaxing bath represent a universal desire for simple - but not plain - sources of joy.
Thank you, Etsuko-san, for another inspiring day!
 |
| Leaving Tensou after a delicious tempura experience |
No comments:
Post a Comment