Picture a small, moss-covered bridge leading you to a hidden oasis. This is Tenju-an, a tranquil Zen temple nestled at the foot of the Higashiyama Mountains in Kyoto. Tenju-an is a subsidiary of the neighboring Nanzen-ji, a bustling temple complex. It is said that Tenju-an, meaning “heaven given”, was built in 1337 during the Northern and Southern Courts period, though it was destroyed during Japan’s tumultuous Warring States period that spanned the 15th and 16th centuries. The present buildings, including the main gate and pavilion, were rebuilt around 1602. Tenju-an is a haven of peace and serenity, especially after the hustle and bustle of Nanzen-ji. Here, you can find two distinct gardens – the East Garden and the South Garden. The East Garden is a karesansui, a dry landscape garden, with white gravel, stones, and moss, designed to evoke nature’s beauty through abstraction. A small, moss-covered porch welcomes you into the South Garden. This garden, with its modern wooden bridge, leads you to a serene bamboo grove. As you stroll through the grove, you will find a pond with countless koi carp peacefully swimming amongst the water lilies. Tenju-an is an excellent example of traditional Zen architecture, offering respite from the city’s energy. It is a place to explore, reflect, and appreciate the beauty of nature.
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