A Photographic Journey to the Sites of Hyakunin Isshu | Kyoto & Shiga | Focus #340
Cover photo by .aco.
The ancient city of Kyoto, much like Nara, is a captivating place where the scenes depicted in the Hyakunin Isshu still thrive. On this journey, we will visit some of the most beautiful spots in Kyoto, capturing the landscapes beloved by poets.
Rediscover the charm of these places through the backdrop of traditional Japanese poetry and embark on a journey to capture a photo that resonates with your soul.
Mount Ogura
Photo by Yukihiro
Poem No. 26
Mount Ogura - If only the autumn leaves on the peak could wait for the Emperor's visit.
Sadaijin Fujiwara no Tadahira
This poem expresses the author's wish for the beautiful autumn leaves of Mount Ogura to remain until the Emperor's visit. It is said to be inspired by a poem written when Emperor Uda visited near Mount Ogura, wishing his son, Emperor Daigo, could see the beauty of the leaves.
Mount Ogura, where Fujiwara no Teika, the editor of Hyakunin Isshu, had a villa, is renowned for its autumn foliage. Let's capture the elegant autumn scenery at this popular spot among Heian aristocrats.
Mount Ibuki
Photo by saciiiko
Poem No. 51
Even if I say so, you would not know the burning passion I feel, like the mugwort on Mount Ibuki.
Fujiwara no Michinobu Ason
This poem was used in the first love letter sent by the author to their unrequited love. The burning passion is cleverly compared to mugwort, known for its flammability. Mount Ibuki is not only famous for its autumn leaves but also for the sea of clouds that cover its summit from summer to autumn, creating a dramatic scene.
Mount Hiei & Enryakuji Temple
Photo by 🐈かえで🍁
Poem No. 95
Though unworthy, I shall embrace the people of this world with the sleeves of my ink-dyed robe at Mount Hiei.
Jien
"My abode in the woods" refers to Mount Hiei, where the author had begun living. This poem expresses the author's humble wish to embrace the people with the sleeves of his monk's robe. Enryakuji Temple on Mount Hiei, a World Heritage site, is a place of monk training and exudes a sacred atmosphere. Capture the serene air and deep history in your photos.
Amanohashidate
Photo by ちゅらりんこ
Poem No. 60
Oe Mountain, the road to Ikuno is far, so I have not yet seen the letter from my mother nor Amanohashidate.
Koshikibu no Naishi
This poem was an impromptu response by Koshikibu no Naishi, known for her poetic talent, to rumors that her mother, Izumi Shikibu, was ghostwriting for her. It means she had not seen her mother's letter from Tango Province (now northern Kyoto) nor visited Amanohashidate. Amanohashidate, one of Japan's three scenic views, offers a unique landscape where the sandbar lined with pine trees appears like a bridge to the heavens. Capture the mystical scenery from a high vantage point to express the grandeur of nature.
