The gardens of the Tenryu-ji Temple are considered to be one the finest examples of early Zen architecture being initially constructed in 1339. It represents the transition between the earlier pond gardens and the Karesanui (dry landscape) gardens of Zen Temples.
The design of the garden was inspired by Chinese style ink paintings of the Song Dynasty and is hailed as an original triumph of design that inspired many more gardens over the following centuries.
The focal point of the garden is the large central pond where reflections can be enjoyed of the many maples, cherries and Nawaki stunted pines along with rough cut rocks that surround it.
It also makes the most of the 'borrowed' scenery from the Arashiyama hills that provide an ever-present backdrop.
At the end of the pond are 2 groups of rocks.
Tenryuji Gardens - it's all about rocks and waterThe first grouping is known as the Dragon Gate Waterfall, this is a dry landscape waterfall representing Yellow River Gorge.
In front of the falls is a stone bridge thought to be the oldest in Japan.
Half way up the falls is a large stone representing a carp with legend telling of a carp that swam up the falls and was transformed into a dragon. In Zen the carp represents the severity of training to become a monk.
The second grouping consist of 7 vertical stones that represent Mount Horai.
Tenryuji Gardens - you can understand, or just gaze and contemplate, it works, regardlessThe lake and surrounds provide a stunning vista from the temple and it is highly recommended that visitors take time to sit and contemplate.
The lines, colours and textures have all been designed to infuse a sense of peace and tranquility creating a state of spiritual calm. As with many popular Japanese gardens, this is not always possible due to the number of visitors, but it's worth a try, even if only to shed a few of the stresses of the day.
After walking up the hill you will exit the gardens and enter the towering Sagano Bamboo Grove, the path of which leads you around the back, along the river bank and then back to the entrance.
Tenryuji Kyoto - Bamboo GroveIt's a good 15-20 minute walk and well worth it, especially as it includes walking past a collection of miniature stone statues of revered monks.
The gardens are in the middle of the Arashiyama District which is very picturesque and also worth wandering (or cycling) through, being very quaint and full of interest.
