Windows and red
Christmas trees have gone up in town but autumn's not quite done. This is what it looked like in the morning light at Genko-an.
The temple is known for its maple leaves but the front gate can be enjoyed in any season.
Most visitors though are probably there for these two windows in the main hall.
A signboard outside the temple explains: The round Window of Enlightenment "represents the spirit of 'Zen and Entsu', the calm state of mind free from anything and the universe". The square Window of Uncertainty symbolises "human life filled with the suffering of living, ageing, being ill and dying". Both windows are said to describe the truth of Buddhism.
There were quite a few people posing in front of this window with big smiles. 'Unenlightened and proud!'
I spent a long time looking at this one.
But not so long I forgot the maples.
There were leaves in the water.
And against the gate.
And in a wall.
Flashing yellow like a signal...
...to stop.