By Harukawa Film Works

Experience the quiet beauty of Kyoto in early spring through this cinematic video, 'Kyoto Spring Garden Scene 1' by Harukawa Film Works. This serene journey captures the delicate play of light on stone and moss, as well as the soothing natural sounds of birdsong and breeze, across three storied temple gardens in Kyoto: Tofuku-ji, Jojakko-ji, and Ōbai-in.

The video opens at the renowned Tofuku-ji Temple Garden (東福寺庭園), famous for its meticulous Zen layout, particularly the moss and stone checkerboard designed by Mirei Shigemori. Located in Kyoto’s Higashiyama District, this temple is a tranquil retreat known for both its autumn foliage and its contemplative landscapes in other seasons.

Next, at the 5:04 mark, the viewer is transported to Jojakko-ji (常寂光寺), tucked into the Sagano area, near Arashiyama. This temple’s rustic garden and thatched-roof bell tower evoke a rustic charm that perfectly complements the subtle hues of spring. Surrounded by lush greenery, Jojakko-ji is a lesser-known yet spiritually rich site that invites introspection.

The final garden featured, beginning at 8:14, is Ōbai-in (黄梅院), a sub-temple of Daitoku-ji. Though not regularly open to the public, Ōbai-in is known for its stone garden, which is also attributed to Shigemori. The video footage here offers a rare glimpse of its intimate and restrained design that embodies the essence of wabi-sabi — the beauty of imperfection and impermanence.

Overall, 'Kyoto Spring Garden Scene 1' is a meditative exploration of seasonal transitions and timeless architecture. It’s a gentle invitation to slow down and appreciate the subtleties of traditional Japanese aesthetics.