A line of bonsai trees in a sacred courtyard by Frank Photos

This photo shows the interior aisle of the Van Duc pagoda in Hoi An, bathed in light after a rain shower. The still damp ground gently reflects the potted trees and pillars, adding to the peaceful atmosphere. On the left, a series of majestic bonsais sit in richly decorated tubs, testifying to the care given to sacred gardening in Vietnamese temples.
To the right, a varnished wooden colonnade rises up, supporting a canopy with geometric lines. It guides the eye towards a small traditional door at the end of the alleyway, closed but inviting for contemplation. The curved roofs, typical of Vietnamese Buddhist architecture, rise proudly above the façades.
This balancing act between architecture, nature and spirituality is typical of the pagodas of central Vietnam. The symmetrical composition, sober colours and soft light help to create a meditative atmosphere. It is a place of silence, where every detail - from the sculptures of the pots to the arrangement of the trees - invites introspection.