Hidden Beauty: A Serene Journey Through Ohara, Kyoto
In the hustle and bustle of city life, there is always a hidden paradise quietly waiting for our arrival. This time, my gaze turned to Ohara in Kyoto, a place embraced by nature, where I felt true tranquility and beauty.
My journey began with the 'Path of Flowers,' an ancient trail that winds like a colorful ribbon through the mountains and fields of Ohara. The flowers blooming on both sides dance lightly in the wind, whispering the secrets of spring. The golden rapeseed flowers in spring and the red spider lilies in autumn are mesmerizing, making one feel as if they are in a moving painting. The gentle breeze caresses my face, and the sounds of birds and flowing streams whisper in my ears, prompting me to slow down and savor the beauty of nature.
As I continued my walk, I arrived at Sanzen-in Temple, a Tendai sect temple standing quietly amidst the lush mountains. Upon entering the temple grounds, the first thing that caught my eye was the 'Yusei-en Garden,' where the moss is as soft as velvet, inviting me to sit and quietly appreciate the serene beauty. Sitting on the veranda, with the breeze gently blowing, time seemed to stand still. Every corner of this place exudes tranquility, making one naturally immerse in its serenity and forget the city's clamor.
Next, I visited Hosen-in Temple, where the garden is equally stunning. Standing in front of the guest hall, looking out at the garden, the scenery before me is like a delicate painting, compelling me to capture the moment with my camera. Inside the guest hall, savoring the exquisite matcha and handmade Japanese sweets from a local confectionery, I couldn't help but marvel at the luxury of such a life. Every tree and leaf in the garden exudes a tranquil power, whispering the ancient history.
On this trip to Ohara, what I felt was not just the beautiful scenery, but a hidden tranquility, a serene power. Each spot made me realize the importance of slowing down and listening to the voice of the heart in this fast-paced era. Ohara, this secret place hidden in Kyoto, will forever remain in my memory, becoming a pure land deep in my heart. I look forward to coming back next time, to meet this tranquility again, and let my soul once again feel the infinite peace and beauty in this land.