Pop Japan

Lotus, gorgeous pink and white flowers that bloom on thin stalks growing up out of the water, have long been associated with purity, beauty, and Buddhism. Despite the fact that the lotus sprouts from the mud, it emerges above the water beautiful and unstained. It's said that where the Buddha Siddhārtha walked lotus flowers sprung up from his footsteps, and because of this you can often find lotus art, designs, or even the plants themselves at Buddhist temples. Kyoto is no exception to this, and in the month of July the lotus bring locals and tourists alike to come enjoy the sight of the large blooms, whether they lay spread out over a lake or grow from carefully placed pots. Join the Kyoto Fan team on a summer journey to four temples who offer lovely lotus in their gardens, from Daikaku-ji in Saga-Arashiyama to Kajū-ji in Yamashina, then down to Uji for Manpuku-ji and Mimuroto-ji.