November 14, 2011

November 6, 2011

A stream in Kencho-ji


Water goes on flowing without interruption.
Like a stream of water, all things are in a state of flow.

Everything is changing without end.
We are changing in the eternal cycle of birth, death and rebirth.

Shumeigiku (Japanese anemone) flowers in Tokei-ji


Shumeigiku flowers bloom flamboyantly in the depth of autumn.

In the gardens of Zen in Kita-kamakura, a colorful variety of autumn flowers is blooming in full glory.

The leaves of trees have already begun to turn red and yellow and will soon reign over these gardens totally with their flaming tints just before the arrival of winter.

A cool autumnal breeze is softly swaying these elegant flowers and tall flower stalks as if to stroke them tenderly.

Kashiwaba-azisai (Hydrangea quercifolia) leaves in Tokei-ji


The leaves of Kashiwaba-ajisai have taken on a deeper crimson color to hint us of the gradual approach of winter.

In the rainy season of early summer, this Kashiwaba-ajisai beautifies the wet garden elegantly with its white silk-like flowers.

In summer, its fresh green leaves quietly endure the trials of the blazing sun.

Winter is moving towards this garden of autumnal tints with stealthy steps.

Kogiku (chrysanthemum) flowers in Engaku-ji


In the quiet garden of a late afternoon, I found a bouquet of white chrysanthemum flowers being illuminated by the gentle sunlight.