The mountain air carries whispers of ancient wisdom. You stand before Kozan-ji, a Shingon Buddhist temple nestled among the lush hills of Kyoto. Founded in 1206 by the monk Myoe, Kozan-ji holds a special place in history. Myoe, a devoted scholar and teacher, sought a calm retreat away from the bustling city to delve deeper into Buddhist teachings. He found it here. This temple, with its serene beauty, has been a sanctuary for generations. You see the oldest remaining structure, Sekisui-in, a testament to the Kamakura period. It served as the temple’s scripture hall, and now, it’s a treasure chest of ancient scrolls and relics. One of the highlights is the Chōju Jinbutsu Giga, often referred to as Japan’s first manga. This set of picture scrolls, created in the 12th and 13th centuries, depicts animals engaged in human-like activities. They are humorous, thought-provoking, and a glimpse into the lives of the monks. You imagine their laughter echoing through the halls of Kozan-ji as they viewed these playful scrolls. From the veranda of Sekisui-in, you can admire the breathtaking view of the Kiyotaki-gawa river valley. Breathe in the crisp mountain air. Feel the peace that permeates the temple grounds. Let the serenity of Kozan-ji wash over you. Take a moment to appreciate the beauty of this timeless sanctuary.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to