There are 3 main groups of rocks in the beautiful Isshidan Zen garden of Ryogen-in, Kyoto, each with their significance. In the forefront, in the middle of the photo is the Kame-jima (turtle island) group, and on the right side of the photo is the Tsuru-jima (crane island) group.

Both are symbols of longevity, because in the Japanese tradition the crane is said to live 1,000 years, while the turtle is considered to have a lifespan of ten thousand years. Finally, the third group, visible in the upper right corner of the garden represents Horai-san, the “Treasure Mountain” or “Treasure Island", a mythical place inhabited by immortals.

Ryogen-in Temple, Kyoto

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Yesterday’s Japan Photo: View from a Shinjuku Station platform