Obai-in Temple: Wabi-Sabi

Obai-in Temple: A Journey into the Heart of Wabi-Sabi
Obai-in, a sub-temple of Daitoku-ji, is currently open for its special spring viewing. This temple holds deep historical significance as it was originally built by Oda Nobunaga in memory of his father. Later, after the Honno-ji Incident, Toyotomi Hideyoshi held Nobunaga’s memorial service here and expanded the temple, giving it the name "Obai-in."

One of the highlights is the "Jikichu-tei" garden, said to be designed by the tea master Sen no Rikyu at the age of 66. The pond is uniquely shaped like a gourd (hyotan), the symbol of Hideyoshi’s battle flag.

Beyond this, the temple grounds feature several stunning gardens where the moss and peonies were in full bloom.

For someone like me who practices the Way of Tea, it was a deeply moving experience to witness the essence of "Wabi-sabi"—finding beauty in simplicity and imperfection—exactly as Rikyu intended to convey. It is a place where history and aesthetic philosophy truly come to life. 🍵🌸