By Harukawa Film Works

Kyoto, the heart of Japan’s cultural and spiritual heritage, is renowned not only for its temples and shrines but also for its tranquil and meticulously crafted gardens. In this visually meditative film by Harukawa Film Works, viewers are invited to explore 20 different gardens throughout Kyoto, each exuding a quiet beauty cultivated across generations.

The journey begins at the Nanzen-ji Temple Hojo Garden, featuring its iconic moss-covered stones and traditional karensansui (dry landscape) style. Over the course of more than two hours, the camera gently moves through a variety of iconic and serene temple gardens, capturing how light shifts over raked gravel, how shadows play over stepping stones, and how the ambient sounds of birds and trickling water bring each scene to life. Some notable gardens featured include Ryoan-ji, famed for its zen rock garden; Tofuku-ji's Honbo Garden; and Ginkaku-ji’s famed moss and sand gardens. Additional stops include Shisen-do Temple, Komyo-in, Jakko-in, and the peaceful grounds of Eikan-do and Genko-an Temple.

Rather than a travelogue with narration, the film focuses entirely on the ambience and natural sounds of each location, offering a meditative glimpse into Kyoto’s aesthetic philosophy. This includes elements of wabi-sabi, the beauty of imperfection and transience, central to Japanese garden design.

Each garden is distinct, highlighting regional variations in Zen and Pure Land landscaping. From the rich moss carpets of Gio-ji Temple to the minimalist gravel arrangements of Zuiho-in, the film captures the rich diversity of Kyoto’s horticultural artistry. For those seeking an escape from everyday busyness, this film delivers a much-needed dose of stillness and natural wonder.

Whether you are planning your next visit to Kyoto or simply wish to immerse yourself in Japanese garden aesthetics, this film is an ideal way to appreciate the artistry of Kyoto's historic gardens in the most peaceful form.