Zuiho-in (Daitoku-ji)（瑞峯院）
A Zen Garden Rooted in Christian History Zuihō-in, part of the Daitoku-ji temple complex in Kyoto, stands out not only for its striking gardens but also for its unusual origins. It was founded in 1546 by Ōtomo Sōrin, a powerful Christian daimyo, as his family temple. Remarkably, Zuihō-in still preserves its original architecture, having survived […]
Funda-in (Tofuku-ji)（芬陀院 東福寺）
A Quiet Temple with a Garden by Sesshū Funda-in is a serene sub-temple of Tōfuku-ji in Kyoto, often missed by visitors heading to the main hall or better-known sub-temples. However, those who take the time to explore it are rewarded with historical depth and refined garden design. Founded in 1321 during the Kamakura period, Funda-in […]
Entsu-ji（圓通寺）
A Zen Temple Framed by Nature’s Beauty Entsū-ji is a serene Zen Buddhist temple in northern Kyoto, known for its famous borrowed scenery (shakkei) featuring Mount Hiei. Located away from the busy city center, Entsū-ji offers a peaceful escape for those who seek quiet reflection and stunning views. This hidden gem is one of Kyoto’s […]
Korin-in (Daitoku-ji)（興臨院）
A Hidden Gem of Zen and Tea Culture at Daitoku-ji Kōrin-in (光林院) is a peaceful sub-temple in the large Daitoku-ji temple complex in Kyoto. It was founded in 1520 by the powerful Hatakeyama clan as their family temple. The main hall, called the Hōjō (方丈), is built in the shoin-zukuri style. This style was popular […]
Chion-in（知恩院）
Spiritual Center of the Pure Land Sect Chion-in（知恩院） stands proudly in Kyoto as the head temple of the Jōdo-shū (Pure Land Sect of Buddhism). Founded in 1234 by Genchi, a devoted disciple of Hōnen (1133–1212), this temple is deeply rooted in Japanese spiritual history. It continues to attract pilgrims, tourists, and scholars from around the […]
Kozan-ji (Iko-an)（高山寺, 遺香庵）
A Historic Temple in Kyoto’s Takao Mountains Kōzan-ji (高山寺) is one of the oldest temples in the Kyoto area. Nestled in the quiet foothills of Mount Takao, northwest of the city, it belongs to the Shingon school of esoteric Buddhism. Tradition says it was founded in 744 by order of Emperor Kōnin, though the existence […]
Mibu-dera（壬生寺）
Resilience and Renewal in Kyoto Mibu-dera is one of Kyoto’s oldest temples, with a history dating back to the year 991. It was founded by the monk Kaiken, during the peaceful Heian period. Over time, however, the temple has faced many hardships. Like much of Kyoto, Mibu-dera suffered from wars, fires, and natural disasters. Because […]