By: Alex
Ryōan-ji (Japanese: 瑠璃光院), open only in early summer and late autumn, allows visitors to enjoy the autumn foliage through framed windows indoors, attracting many leaf-peepers (related report). Come winter in January and February, the vibrant colors of autumn make way for snowscapes reminiscent of ink paintings, now set in the outskirts of Kyoto at Hosshin-in Temple.
▲ (photo by wasabitool @Twitter)
Located in Ohara, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, Hosshin-in is famed for its “fusuma garden.” A type of Japanese garden design, the fusuma garden essentially uses elements like doors, pillars, and windows to create a picture-frame effect, making the outdoor scenery beyond the window appear like a painting. Additionally, the temple garden features a 700-year-old five-needled pine, whose sturdy and resilient form adds to the charm. Visitors can sit in the guest hall, peacefully admire the garden’s beauty, and enjoy matcha and sweets (included in the admission fee of 800 yen, about HK$55), taking a moment of tranquility to relax the mind.
▲ (photo by wasabitool @Twitter)
Photography enthusiast @wasabitool recently visited Hosshin-in to capture this nationally renowned spectacular view. He mentioned that although it was a bit cold inside the guest hall, the silver world outside resembled a screen. The white of the snow harmonized beautifully with the traditional Japanese interior, further enhanced by the striking red felt laid over the straw mats, fully showcasing the beauty of the Japanese landscape. He also noted that the staff who greeted him on the day of his visit mentioned that although this winter has been relatively mild, there had just been a heavy snowfall, making the scenery especially stunning — he felt very lucky to have captured these photos.
▲ (photo by wasabitool @Twitter)
Netizens highly praised his work, with comments including: “The red carpet makes the snow look even whiter,” “It feels like another world outside the window. I’d love to sit in a quiet room and listen to the sound of snow falling,” “Amazing, the whole frame looks like an ink painting,” and “The contrast between the white snow, red carpet, and black shadows is breathtaking — truly a masterpiece.”
▲ (photo by wasabitool @Twitter)
Source: @wasabitool