Saiho-ji Temple, often referred to as Kokedera or the Moss Temple, is one of Kyoto’s most treasured sites. Famous for its lush moss garden and tranquil atmosphere, Saiho-ji offers a unique spiritual experience for those seeking peace and natural beauty. However, visiting this UNESCO World Heritage site requires careful planning due to its reservation-only policy. Our guide will walk you through how to visit Saiho-ji Temple, including detailed instructions on how to reserve your visit.
Why Visit Saiho-ji Temple?
Saiho-ji Temple is renowned for its stunning moss garden, which features over 120 varieties of moss that blanket the temple grounds in vibrant shades of green. The garden is a masterpiece of Zen landscaping, designed to evoke a sense of serenity and reflection. As one of the oldest Zen temples in Japan, Saiho-ji provides not only a visual feast but also a deep cultural and spiritual experience.
The garden exemplifies Zen landscaping, crafted to promote a sense of calm and contemplation. As one of Japan’s oldest Zen temples, Saiho-ji offers both a significant visual experience and a profound cultural and spiritual insight.
How to Make a Reservation to Visit Saiho-ji Temple
Visiting Saiho-ji requires a reservation, which must be made in advance online or through a written application process. Here’s is a sum up of how you can secure your spot. For details, please download our free step-by-step guide.
Reservation by Postcard (online reservation is possible too)
– When to Apply:
The postcard need to reach Saiho-ji between two and one month prior to your visit. Send it right at the two-month-mark!
– What You Need:
– A return postcard (ofuku hagaki 往復はがき) if you’re in Japan.
– If you’re applying from abroad, you can use an international reply coupon (IRC) instead.
– Details to Include:
– Your full name and address.
– The preferred date and time of your visit (provide multiple options if possible).
– The number of visitors (up to two).
– Mailing Address:
56, Matsuo Jingatanicho, Nishikyo-ku, Kyoto, 615-8286, Japan
To : Saihoji Temple office.
– Confirmation:
The temple will reply with a postcard confirming your reservation. You must bring this postcard with you to gain entry on the day of your visit.
Get your free step-by-step guide on how to reserve a spot at Saiho-ji here:
The best times to view the garden are during the rainy season (mid-June until mid-July) and in autumn, when the red and orange of the maple’s leafs contrast nicely with the lush green of the velvety moss.
On 18 pages we are showing you through the process on how to reserve a spot to visit Saiho-ji temple in Kyoto.
We are pointing out restrictions, what to look out for, and explaining the different visiting programs in detail.
Screenshots and hyperlinks are helping you with the reservation process.
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Participation in the Temple’s Ceremonial Practices
– Upon Arrival: Visitors are required to participate in the copying of a sutra (a Buddhist scripture). This is a traditional practice meant to prepare your mind for the tranquility of the temple grounds.
– Note: This ceremony is an integral part of the visit and cannot be skipped
Important Tips for Visiting Saiho-ji Temple
– Dress Code: As you’ll be participating in a religious ceremony, dress modestly and respectfully.
– No Photography: Photography is not allowed in the temple to maintain the peaceful atmosphere. You can take photos in the garden.
– Duration: The entire visit, including the ceremony and garden tour, usually takes around 90 minutes to 2 hours.
How to Get to Saiho-ji Temple
Saiho-ji Temple is located in the Nishikyo Ward of Kyoto. Here are the best ways to reach the temple:
– By Train and Bus:
– From Kyoto Station, take the JR Sagano Line to Saga-Arashiyama Station. From there, transfer to Kyoto City Bus number 73 and get off at Kokedera (Saiho-ji Temple) bus stop. The temple is a short walk from the bus stop.
– Alternatively, you can take Kyoto City Bus number 28 from Shijo-Kawaramachi to Kokedera. This route takes about 30 minutes.
– By Taxi:
– A taxi from central Kyoto or from Saga-Arashiyama Station is convenient and takes approximately 15-20 minutes.
If you’re traveling to Kyoto, Osaka or Nara, consider buying the Kansai Railway Pass which includes many attractions. You can find the 2-Day and 3-Day Pass here*.
Opposite to the entrance to Saiho-ji temple is a small Cafe with garden. Make sure to make time in your schedule to visit it!
Visiting Saiho-ji Temple is a unique experience that combines natural beauty with spiritual enrichment. By following the reservation process and respecting the temple’s traditions, you can fully enjoy the serenity and beauty of this historic site. Be sure to plan ahead and secure your reservation to ensure you don’t miss out on one of Kyoto’s most iconic and tranquil destinations.
With our guide, you’re well-prepared to visit Saiho-ji Temple and enjoy all that this sacred place has to offer.
OUR GARDEN GUIDE
For an enhanced experience, make sure to buy our garden guide for the Saiho-ji temple. It will give you all the information on the temple’s history and details on the garden.
eBook Details:
- 18 pages
- 84 illustrations
- Self-print PDF format
- Price: $4.95 (Free preview available)
Contents:
- Temple History
- Buildings of the Temple
- Musō Soseki’s Garden
- Moss and Philosophy
- The Upper & Lower Gardens
- Registration Process
- Directions & Access
Start your journey into the serene world of Saihō-ji with our Garden Guide today!
*These links are connected to our affiliate account on Klook. If you purchase one of the options, we will receive a small amount which will help us keeping up the work on Real Japanese Gardens.
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