Entsuji

Entsuji is a very fine temple in the north of Kyoto. Founded in 1629 by the Emperor Gomizuno, it became a Zen monastery later.


The Temple displays the gardening style of Shakkei (lit. borrowed scenery), The main element being Mount Hiei one of the many Meccas of Japanese Buddhism.


Mount Hiei looks really beautiful. In Japan Mountains play a central role in the religious life of the people.
Mount Fuji is the most prominent example, Mount Koya is very famous too and many other mountains. The tradition of reverence to Mountains and nature continued through the religious development of the country.


Last but not least the "window of enlightenment" of entsuji. Enlightenment "IS" buddhism. It is the goal of every buddhist believer to get enlightened.
The form of the window shows symbolically Enlightenment.