Visitors to a Buddhist temple in Japan’s ancient capital of Kyoto are gaining peace of mind through a picturesque display of green maple leaves reflected in a polished black floor.
Fresh leaves on many maple trees at Jissoin Temple are now at their peak. Part of the lush greenery is mirrored by the gleaming floor of a room in a phenomenon called yuka-midori.
The temple says the image becomes especially vivid on cloudy and rainy days. Tourists took in the beautiful tableau amid wet weather on Thursday.
A visitor in her 80s said the rain made the scenery more interesting and tranquil. Another in her 60s said the very serene view made her think peace will come.
A temple official said some people choose rainy days to see the sight. He added that he wants visitors to enjoy it with a calm state of mind.
The temple’s website urges visitors to refrain from taking photos and videos of the building’s interior, including the yuka-midori.
AloJapan.com