Hogon-in is one of the sub-temples of Tenryu-ji in Arashiyama, Kyoto. This Shishiku Garden is a tranquil and elegant Zen garden located within its grounds.
“Shishiku” is a translation of the Sanskrit term "siṃhanāda," which literally means “the lion's roar.” In Buddhist scriptures, when the Buddha explained the truth, his roaring voice overwhelmed all delusion and false doctrines. This anecdote is expressed by likening Buddha's voice to the powerful roar of the king of beasts.
Walking through this garden, one banishes worldly thoughts from one's mind and listens to the subtle sounds of nature, that is to say, bird songs, the wind, the sound of running water, and the crunch of moss underfoot. It is considered a place for a sermon without words, where one can calm and purify the mind.
This large mossy stone is called "Shishi-iwa" (lion stone) because its contours suggest the dashing figure of a noble lion.
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