Ryūge-ji Temple
The main hall at Ryuge-ji Temple in Kanazawa Ward, Yokohama, Japan—a historic site founded in 1189 in the Mutsuura mountains. After the original structure burned in 1499, it merged with two neighboring temples, forming the present-day complex. This tranquil Buddhist sanctuary has endured for over 830 years, blending spiritual heritage with the local residential urban landscape.
Bell Tower
A wooden bell tower in the courtyard of Ryuge-ji Temple, Yokohama, Japan. Built with stout corner pillars and an open design, it houses a large bell hung from a central beam. This style dates back to the 13th century. The thatched roof, once common, is now a rarity, with clay tiles more prevalent today.
Fudōmyō-Ō
A small vermilion shrine housing a statue of the Buddhist deity Fudomyo-O, or the Immovable Wisdom King. Although located within the grounds of Ryuge-ji Temple in Yokohama, Japan, the shrine’s architecture closely mirrors that of traditional Shinto hokora, blending the two traditions of Buddhism and Shintoism in a peaceful garden setting.
Sanmon Gate
A peaceful view of a stone-paved path bordered by a white wall with traditional roof tiles, leading to a large wooden sanmon gate with a gabled tiled roof. Here, visitors and worshipers pass from the secular world into the serene, sacred grounds of the Buddhist temple.
Susaki Shrine
A peaceful view of a small urban Shinto shrine in Kanazawa, Yokohama, Japan. A stone torii gate, lion-dog guardians, and shimenawa rope welcome visitors along a clean path leading to the wooden worship hall. Surrounded by trees and soft winter evening light, the serene courtyard invites quiet prayer and reflection.
Komainu
A stone lion-dog (komainu) stands guard in the quiet courtyard of a traditional Shinto shrine in urban Japan. Its powerful mane, sharp claws, and fierce expression embody protection and strength, while the small cub beneath its paw symbolizes care. A moss-covered tree, the wooden exterior of the shrine, and a straw shimenawa rope evoke a sense of history and reverence, all beneath the soft light of a chilly winter evening during blue hour.
Garden Gazebo
The gazebo at Yokohama English Garden offers a peaceful retreat from the summer sun, enveloping visitors in the fragrant aromas of roses and herbs, accompanied by the soothing sounds of cicadas.
Envy Zinnia
While the Yokohama English Garden is known for its roses, off-season blooms are ensured with other vibrant flowers like zinnias. These hardy summer flowers, with their broad, layered petals, come in a range of bright colors and thrive in hot conditions on tall, upright stems.
Union Jack
A weathered white bench adorned with a faded Union Jack sits gracefully amidst the vibrant blooms and greenery of Yokohama English Garden, evoking a charming blend of British heritage and natural beauty.
Yellow and Pink Blossoms
Discover the beauty of summer through my latest blog post, where I explore the subtle charm of a resilient sunflower, the graceful allure of a rose, and the vibrant tapestry of colors found in a garden filled with Marigolds. Each flower tells its own story in these snapshots taken at the Yokohama English Garden. Check out the full write-up to experience the magic of these blooms that bring a touch of brightness to even the hottest days.