On the evening of October 17, 2025, a special night-time viewing event, "Appreciating the Light of Bonto Lanterns," began at Torin-in, a sub-temple of Myoshinji Temple in Ukyo Ward, Kyoto City. Candlelight swaying in the night breeze gently illuminated the garden, which is normally closed to the public.
Chief priest Genbo Nishikawa (86 years old) named the lighting of candles on roof tiles "bonto," and has been holding night-time viewing events every autumn since 1999.
As the sun set and the darkness deepened, the lights of approximately 800 lit candles came into view. Each year, a Zen phrase is chosen as the theme, and this year's theme was "Landscape of the Pine Trees and Clouds." The word "landscape of the Pine Trees" was expressed with an andon lantern, and the word "landscape of the clouds" with candles. A peaceful time passed with only the sound of insects echoing.
Nishikawa Genbo said, "I hope you can feel the world of Zen by candlelight and spend a relaxing time." 6pm - 9pm (reception closes at 8:30pm). Until October 26th. Admission fee is 700 yen.
