True Happiness - Timeless Wisdom from Japans Oldest Minimalist

🌸 What is true happiness?
What timeless wisdom did Kamo no Chomei — Japan’s Oldest Minimalist — discover on his turbulent journey?
This video explores the secrets of True Happiness, Minimalism, and Freedom, inspired by Chomei’s life and his masterpiece Hojoki.

Born into the prestigious Shimogamo Shrine family, Chomei faced bitter succession disputes after his father’s death and endured repeated personal setbacks. Through this harsh journey, he realized that glory and status are impermanent. Choosing a new path, he became a Buddhist monk after turning 50, embracing strong minimalism and a search for true happiness.

What was life like inside his tiny 3-meter-square hermitage, where he lived in radical simplicity?
In his timeless classic, Hojoki — one of the Three Great Essays of Japan — Chomei shared profound wisdom of impermanence, minimalism, and happiness.

Yet at the very end, he made a surprising confession. What was it?
Discover the timeless wisdom from Japan’s oldest minimalist, and find out how his minimalist journey to freedom continues to inspire seekers of true happiness even today.

The filming location is the present-day authentic Shimogamo Shrine in Kyoto.
You can also enjoy extensive footage of the faithfully reconstructed hojo hermitage.

🌸 Timeline:
00:00 - Introduction
00:35 - From Glory to Downfall
01:58 - Monastic Life and Minimal Living
03:00 - "Hojoki" and Final Self-Reflection
04:13 - Timeless Message