expression
seeing is enjoying; looking is a pleasure in itself
Proverb meaning that just looking at something can be enjoyable, without needing to own or touch it. Often used when window-shopping or admiring art.
美術館で「見るは法楽」と言いながら、絵をじっくり眺めた。
At the museum, I gazed at the paintings, thinking that just looking is a pleasure.
expression
looking doesn't cost a thing; it costs nothing to look
Proverb emphasizing that looking is free; often used to encourage browsing or to justify not buying something.
高い店だけど、「見るは法楽」だから、ちょっと入ってみよう。
It's an expensive shop, but since looking doesn't cost a thing, let's go in for a bit.