Shisendo, Kyoto

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In 1641 Shisendo was built by Josen Ishikawa. The house and garden are many people's favorite place in Kyoto. It is not of the scale of Heian Shrine or Kyomisudera, it is of a smaller, more human scale.

Ishikawa has left a legacy that has far outlived him. His study of the Classical Chinese poets of his era and his devotion to the teaching of Buddha with the wisdom of Confucius are evident in the simplicity and symbolism in the garden. The main room, open to the light of day on two sides is the quintessential meditation site. Hidden at the edge of a forest in Northeastern Kyoto this special garden is one to never forget.

Ishikawa was granted this land by the Shogun as a retirement gift when his military career was ended by his over zealous attack again the Toyama clan in Osaka. Though he prevailed, he had broken ranks and attacked before the order. Consequently he could no longer serve Shogun Iyeyasu Tokugawa as complete obedience was required. Tokugawa must have never-the-less appreciated Ishikawa's willingness to battle on his behalf and granted him this land.

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