Rin'oji

 The garden contains a very nice three story pagoda, or more properly, a stupa. These represent the structure built over the grave of the Buddha or other person. Traditionally the stupa holds a relic of some sort or a sacred writing. Stupas are very interesting architecturally. There is a single core that runs through the middle from the top to bottom. The bottom end extends below the bottom of the ground floor and fits into a bowl shaped hole in a large stone. This method of construction is extremely strong and the stupas remain standing during earthquakes even when all the surrounding buildings collapse.

 Just beyond the stupa (you can see the first roof on the left) there is a bridge. The surface is curved, a shape that is typical in Japanese gardens.

 This little building was a place to sit out of the sun and provided an entrance to the service area beyond.

 I was intrigued by the shape of this tree.

 This is a good example of the 'pay attention to  your feet' paths that I previously mentioned. The flag stones are very irregular and difficult to walk on, even when you pay attention. A branch path goes between the trees and you have to cross the roots, which require even more concentration.

Another curved bridge. This one has no railings but instead there is a row of green plants.