Ryoan-ji, Kyoto

Ryoan, a World Heritage Site, was a country house of the Tokudaiji Clan and converted to a Zen training temple in 1450.

The Rock Garden is its premier feature. Notably different from the many gardens of the Japan Middle Ages, there are no trees or plants – only fifteen rocks and white gravel. The walls were made of clay boiled in oil. Over the centuries, the oil seeped out and formed the peculiar designs on the walls. It is believed that the rock garden was created at the end of Muromachi period, around 1500, by a highly respected Zen monk – Tokuho Zenketsu.

Kinkaku, Kyoto

The Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku) is one of Kyoto’s most popular World Heritage Sites. It is a shariden, a Buddhist hall containing relics of Buddha.

The area was originally a villa owned by the 3rd shogun of the early Muromachi period, built in 1397. When the shogun died, in keeping with his will the villa was converted into a temple. Gold foil on lacquer cover the upper two levels. A shining phoenix stands on top of the shingled roof. The first level is built in the shinden style of the 11th century imperial aristocracy; the second level is in the “buke” style of the warrior aristocracy; and the top level is in the Chinese zenshu-butsuden style. Considered a prime example of Muromachi period architecture.

Some cute Tokyo girls on holiday paying respect to their country’s roots.

Make a prayer for good fortune and throw a coin.

Can you imagine how much money has been collected by the abbots of this temple over the last 700+ years?