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 […]
Obai-in (Daitoku-ji)（黄梅院）
Daitoku-ji’s Hidden Gem of Moss, Stone, and Autumn Beauty Ōbai-in（黄梅院）is a rarely accessible sub-temple of Daitoku-ji in Kyoto, renowned for its exquisite moss-covered garden—considered one of Japan’s finest. Open only for a few weeks in November, the temple reveals its full charm during the autumn foliage season. Founded in 1562 as Ōbai-an, the temple is […]
Ryoan-ji（龍安寺）
Japan’s Iconic Zen Rock Garden of Mystery and Balance Ryōan-ji is perhaps Japan’s most famous rock garden. The site originally belonged to the Fujiwara clan during the Heian period (794–1185). In 1450, warlord Hosokawa Katsumoto purchased the estate and founded Ryōan-ji temple. After being destroyed in the Ōnin War, the temple was rebuilt by Katsumoto’s […]
The Silver Pavilion (Ginkaku-ji)（銀閣寺 （慈照寺））
The Silver Pavilion and the Spirit of Wabi-Sabi in Kyoto Ginkaku-ji (銀閣寺), also known as the Silver Pavilion, is one of Kyoto’s most iconic Zen temples. Located on the city’s eastern hills, it was built by Ashikaga Yoshimasa, the grandson of Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, who commissioned the famous Kinkaku-ji. While its golden counterpart shines with opulence, […]
Daisen-in (Daitoku-ji)（大徳寺、大仙院）
A Zen Garden Journey Through Life Do you want to experience Zen Buddhist philosophy firsthand and meet a Zen priest who might even make you laugh? Do you want to walk the same paths where key figures of Japanese history once lived and trained? Then Daitoku-ji and its sub-temple Daisen-in in northern Kyoto are the […]
Tenryu-ji（天龍寺）
Discover an UNESCO World Heritage Temple in Kyoto Tenryū-ji is one of Kyoto’s most important Zen temples. It sits in the scenic Arashiyama district, surrounded by natural beauty. Shogun Ashikaga Takauji founded the temple in 1339 to honor Gautama Buddha. Musō Soseki, a respected Zen master, became its first head priest. Construction finished in 1345. […]
Tofuku-ji – Garden of the Hojo（東福寺）
Discover the Temple and the Garden of the Hōjō Tōfuku-ji is one of Kyoto’s Five Great Zen Temples. Located in southern Kyoto, it is a large temple complex with 24 sub-temples. The temple has deep roots in Zen Buddhism and continues to attract visitors from all over the world. The temple was founded in 1236 […]
Ryogin-an (Tofuku-ji)（龍吟庵）
Where Modern Zen Gardens Meet Ancient Tradition Located within the Tōfuku-ji temple complex in Kyoto, Ryōgin-an (龍吟庵) offers a unique blend of ancient architecture and modern garden design. Therefore, it’s a must-visit for anyone interested in the evolution of Japanese Zen aesthetics. Ryōgin-an began as the residence of the third head priest of Tōfuku-ji, who […]
Nanzen-ji（南禅寺）
Kyoto’s Grand Zen Temple at the Foot of Higashiyama Nanzen-ji is one of Kyoto’s most important Zen temples. Located at the base of the eastern mountains (Higashiyama), this majestic temple complex blends nature, history, and art into one peaceful experience. It’s especially known for its calm atmosphere and the beauty of its traditional Japanese gardens. […]