Stories from the Nakasendo: Kozenji temple in Kiso Fukushima
To say that the gardens of the Kozenji Temple were beautiful would be an understatement. We spent an hour walking around the temple grounds admiring the fall colors – the vibrancy of the reds and oranges was simply breath-taking. There were several old sakura trees that we saw too – the one in the side garden of the temple was listed as 400 years old! This makes me want to visit during the cherry blossoms season as I think they will be spectacular!
Apart from the beauty of its gardens the Kozenji Temple is also famous with its rock garden that is the largest dry Zen garden in Japan. The pattern of the gravel is said to resemble the clouds floating over the valley. You can see it for a small fee – the garden is quiet and serene, a wonderful place to sit and admire the beauty of the surrounding mountains. And while there, don’t miss to see the little garden on the right of the temple building. It’s small but beautiful and peaceful – the only sound you hear is that of the stream feeding its little pond and the songs of the birds. A hidden treasure and so Zen!
The Kozenji Temple was established in 1434 and is one of the three main temples in Kiso. In some ways it reminded me of the Zen temples in Kyoto that I visited during the pandemic a few years ago. I loved their beauty and serenity. I imagine that now, with travel back to its pre-pandemic peak the serenity part will be missing. In Kozenji temple however it is still there and the peace and tranquility of its gardens felt like a spa for the mind and the soul. A highly recommended place to visit.
I am planning another trip to the Nakasendo and the Kiso valley in late April/ early May to see the cherry blossoms and the mountains in spring. If you are interested to join and hear details, drop me a message at spiritofjapantours@gmail.com
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ABOUT THE SPIRIT OF JAPAN TOURS:
In Japanese, the character WA (和) means harmony and equilibrium. The concept of WA can be observed in every aspect of life in Japan: from the way society functions to the harmonious way the elements of a Japanese garden are combined and the elegant, precise movements of a master performing a tea ceremony – all of that is WA and all aim to achieve perfect harmony.
At Spirit of Japan Tours we are dedicated to help you experience the spirit of WA on a deep and transformational level. Our carefully crafted tours incorporate the best of Japan’s irresistible charm: its ancient history and traditions, awe-inspiring natural beauty and its unique blend of spirituality, based on Zen and native Shinto practices. They are a joyful creation that will enhance your sense well-being and enjoyment of life and help you discover your own inner WA – the place where you are in perfect harmony with your own self and the world.