Eihō-ji Temple, Gifu

Eihō-ji Temple in Gifu was founded in 1313, at the end of the Kamakura period, and is the earliest Zen Buddhist garden of this period. With a history of over 700 years, Eihō-ji Temple combines Chinese architectural styles and has withstood the test of time. The architectural aesthetics of the Kannon-dō and Kaisan-dō, which are designated as national treasures, are still impressive. The pond garden is quite unique, and the bridge pavilion built in the Wolong Pond in front of the Kannon-dō has become a precedent for Japanese bridge pavilions. In the courtyard, there is a tree over 700 years old with lush branches and leaves. The maple leaves in early winter are still green, and suddenly a fiery red dragonfly falls on the wall tiles in front of you, flying lightly like a flame, lighting up the picture of early winter.