The Sogenchi Teien (Sogen Pond Garden) at Tenryu-ji is one of the most prominent gardens of Tenryu-ji, the head temple of the Tenryu-ji branch of the Rinzai Zen sect, and is also registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This garden was designed in the Muromachi period by the Zen master Muso Soseki, and it has preserved its original form to this day. Sogenchi Teien is a traditional pond-centered garden, with its landscape artfully arranged around the central pond, Sogenchi. The garden features an elegant composition, incorporating the scenic beauty of Arashiyama and Kameyama as borrowed scenery. The name "Sogenchi" is derived from a Zen phrase in Chinese, symbolizing a dragon seeking water. Surrounding the pond is the Ryumonbaku (Dragon Gate Waterfall), inspired by a Chinese legend that tells of a carp ascending a waterfall and transforming into a dragon, symbolizing success and transformation. Throughout the garden, Zen teachings and symbols are deeply embedded, creating not only a space for visual appreciation but also a place where one can feel the essence of Zen. One of the garden's most captivating aspects is its harmonious relationship with the changing seasons. In spring, cherry blossoms adorn the landscape, while in autumn, the reflection of vibrant foliage on the pond creates a stunning scene. In winter, the garden is blanketed in snow, offering a serene and tranquil atmosphere. With each season, the garden reveals a new beauty, offering fresh inspiration to visitors. Tenryu-ji’s garden is more than just a visually stunning landscape; it is a place where history, nature, and Zen spirituality converge, providing a uniquely peaceful and healing space for all who visit.