Tenryu-ji
Continuous practice, day after day,
is the most appropriate way of expressing gratitude.
–Dogen
This temple whose name means “Heavenly Dragon,” was founded by Ashikaga Takauji in 1339 to honor the emperor Go-daigo. It is a must see, especially during the fall colors.
Muso Soseki, who is credited with creating the gardens with a pond at its center, served as its first chief priest. It is one of the oldest of the “borrowed scenery” type, incorporating the mountain that looms in the background.
This UNESCO World Heritage site, also known as Reikizan, is the main temple of the Tenryu-ji branch of the Rinzai school of Japanese Buddhism.
It is essential to get up very early to experience the temple and gardens at their best. I was amazed how few people were there before seven in the morning, even though it was the peak time in fall. You can walk the trail through the gardens and up to the bamboo path. Again, doing this early allows you to enjoy it without the crowds.
