Ryogen-in, founded in 1502, is one of the oldest sub-temples of the Daitoku-ji complex. Its gardens, particularly the Ryugin-tei, are believed to be among the oldest in Daitoku-ji, possibly designed by the renowned artist Sōami. These karesansui (dry landscape) gardens aren’t just visually stunning; they’re rich with symbolism.
The carefully placed stones and raked gravel represent a miniature landscape, a microcosm of the universe. The moss-covered areas evoke a sense of ancient tranquility, while specific arrangements can represent mountains, islands, or even abstract concepts like the flow of breath (a-un). Look closely, and you might see the suggestion of Mount Horai, the mythical island of immortality. The smallest garden, Totekiko, uses ripples in the gravel to symbolize cause and effect.
For me, sketching here was a way to connect with the deep history and spiritual significance of this place. Each line in the sketch echoes the lines raked daily by the temple’s caretakers, a reminder of the constant flow of time and the search for enlightenment.
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