More Patterns of Japan

In the Japanese gardens and temples, obsessive-compulsive ordering and nature-inspired artistry combine to great effect.... The shoji screens in the main hojo hall at Nanzen Ji temple in Kyoto seem to glow and pulsate, making for an interesting optical effect.

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Another image of perfect repetition at Nanzen Ji temple in Kyoto. The rope ties were clearly made with love. And the pools of rainwater collecting in the tops of the bamboo cane – exquisite!

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More elegant rope ties in Kyoto, but even more astounding, this thatch door outside a residence incorporates the natural segmentation of the branches (not sure what kind of plant or tree these come from) in the pattern of the door. The craftsperson handpicked and then cut the branches so that they would lay perfectly side-by-side to create a highly intricate design using nothing but raw material. Unbelievable!

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What examination of Japanese patterns is complete without a study of the Zen garden? Here is what it boils down to – grey matter (rock and mind) raked into pleasing patterns.

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A tourist at the most famous Zen rock garden in Japan, Ryoan Ji, creates his own ripple effect of the scene before us. Infinity captured in a cell phone -- that's enlightenment.

Posted by Noelia in Japan on 09/Nov/2006

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