"Shenquan Garden": an ancient garden suitable for experiencing ancient scenery and atmosphere

Shinsen-en is an ancient garden in Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, Japan, with a history of over 1,200 years. Originally it was the imperial garden during the Heian-kyo period, used for various banquets and festivals. The name of Shenquanyuan comes from the legendary good dragon king, who was invited by Master Kukai from Wurechi in India to relieve the drought in Kyoto. Shinsenen is also the birthplace of the Gion Festival. Every July, the Mikoshi of the Yasaka Shrine holds a spirit ceremony here to pray for peace in Heian-kyo. The main attraction of Shenquan Garden is the Dharma Accomplishment Pond, which is an artificial pond with a small island in the middle. On the island there is a shrine dedicated to the Good Girl Dragon King. Various plants are planted around the pond, such as cherry blossoms, maple trees, pine trees, etc., presenting different styles as the seasons change. The water in the pond comes from an underground spring. The water is clear and you can see many carp swimming in it. There is a stone bridge on the south side of the pond, called Minamoto no Yoshitsune Bridge. According to legend, this is the place where Minamoto no Yoshitsune and Shizuka Gozen met. Another attraction in Shinsenen is the Acala Hall, a wooden Buddhist temple that houses a wooden statue of the seated Acala, an important cultural property of Japan. Acala is the main guardian deity of Esoteric Buddhism and is believed to be the god who eliminates disasters and diseases. There is a fire pit in front of the Acala Hall. On the 28th of every month, monks hold a fire offering ceremony here to use flames to purify the bodies and minds of believers. Shinsenen is a treasure trove of history and culture in Kyoto. It has witnessed the rise and fall and changes of Heian-kyo, and has also preserved many precious arts and buildings. Visiting Shinsenen, you can feel the scenery and atmosphere of ancient Japan, and also appreciate the beauty and harmony of nature. Shenquanyuan is a place worth visiting. 📍166 Monzencho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8306 Japan #Japan and Korea City Attractions #Japan Travel #Good Places #Overseas Travel #Weekend Travel