The Oldest Zen Temple Kenninji and Ryosokuin Temple | Embrace a touch of Zen, hold a breath of fresh breeze

Deep within the streets and alleys of Kyoto lies a pure land where time seems to stand still – the Ryosokuin Temple of Kenninji. Stepping into the courtyard, one is immediately enveloped by the charm of nature. Sunlight filters through the gaps, casting dappled shadows, while lichen quietly spreads over the jagged rockformations. This scene of natural harmony, embodying the Zen wisdom of living in harmony with nature, instantly purifies the soul, allowing one to escape the hustle and bustle of the world and immerse oneself in a state of serene beauty.

The Ryosokuin Temple not only serves as a place that embodies the aesthetics of Zen, but also retains the marks of cultural exchanges in food. During the Yuan Dynasty, the Japanese monk Ryuuzan Tokuken brought the steamed bun master Lin Jingyin back to Japan, making steamed buns popular in Nara. The stone tablet at the Ryosokuin Templerecords this connection. Moreover, the tea culture also took root in the Kenninji Temple. The Zen master Eisai brought tea trees from China and integrated Zen into tea, thus initiating the “Eisai Tea Trend” in the island nation.

The Ryosokuin Temple is not just an antique living in the past. It frequently hosts various art exhibitions. When the modern and innovative artworks of Hiroshi Sugimoto collide with the temple’s ancient and simple space, the audience can both appreciate the artistic innovation and feel the profound historical heritage.

The Oldest Zen Temple Kenninjiis like a bridge, connecting the past and the present, the East and the West. Amidst the tides of time, it continuously exudes a unique charm, inspiring people’s endless contemplation on history, art and life.