This book presents a true
journey into the heart of the Kyoto experience—one which brings you deep
into the world of Kyoto's ancient Zen Buddhist culture.
Kyoto's Zen heritage represents one of mankind's greatest achievements—recognized
by the large number of temples, shrines and gardens which have been
declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Millions of visitors travel to
Kyoto yearly in search of their secrets, and here for the first time is a
comprehensive overview of each major site.
Over 50 temples and gardens—including all World Heritage Sites—are
captured here in sensitive photos by acclaimed Kyoto-based photographer
John Einarsen. A detailed introduction to each temple by local expert
John Dougill includes information about special opportunities for
visitors—such as early morning meditation sessions, temple food
offerings and special green tea sets provided to enhance the
contemplative experience—along with other "insider" information that no
other guide provides.
A preface by Rev Takafumi Kawakami,
the deputy head priest of the Shunkoin Temple in Kyoto, serves to place
the book within the context of eastern and western Buddhist thought and
practice. His widely viewed TED Talk "How mindfulness can help you to
live in the present" has been viewed by over 100,000 people.
