A Splendid Autumn at Tofuku-ji: The Brilliance of Maple Leaves
by 遊走的異鄉人
Jan 5, 2025
On a hot summer day, the hustle and bustle of Kyoto can often be overwhelming. However, this trip became a baptism of my soul, and I specially chose this quiet corner of Tofukuji Temple. This place is not only a microcosm of the ancient capital, but also a place for me to communicate with nature.
Stepping into Tofuku-ji Temple is like walking into the long river of time. This Zen temple, built in 1236, stands quietly in the embrace of Kyoto. It is only one stop away from Kyoto Station, but it seems to be isolated from the hustle and bustle of the world. Entering the temple, the spacious courtyard is like a painting with many magnificent buildings scattered inside. I couldn't help but hold my breath and feel the weight of history.
Take a stroll to Tsutenkyo Bridge, which is famous for its magnificent red leaves, but it shows a completely different beauty under the green maples of early summer. About 2,000 lush green maple trees swayed in the sunshine, as if whispering to me. This verdant world can only be experienced in the summer when there are fewer crowds. It's as if this beautiful scenery is a secret garden prepared just for me. The sunlight shines through the gaps in the leaves, casting mottled light and shadows, making every step full of poetry.
Here, I had the honor of participating in a special event called the "Treasure Tour," where I was able to appreciate up close the main hall and the important cultural asset "Kōmyōden," which are usually not open to the public. Each Buddha statue with a long history is like a guardian of time, quietly telling stories of the past. These works of art are not only a visual feast, but also a shock to the soul, making me feel a deep awe. Every painting and every Buddha statue, like a mark of history, slowly flows into my heart, allowing me to rethink the meaning of life in this tranquility.
This trip to Kyoto allowed me to find spiritual healing in the magnificence of Tofuku-ji Temple. Whether in the embrace of nature or in the depths of history, every moment is full of beauty and emotion. This city, with its unique charm, helped me regain my inner peace and tranquility. I hope to visit this land again in the future and continue to explore more of its secrets and charm, so that this touching moment will remain in my heart forever.
In this ancient and beautiful land, every encounter is a rebirth of the soul. Kyoto, thank you for allowing me to find my own healing this summer.
#京都 #2024TravelReview #京都之旅 #東福寺
Post by 遊走的異鄉人 | Jan 8, 2025




















