Saiho-ji (Koke-dera)（西芳寺 (苔寺)）
Kyoto’s Legendary Moss Temple and Masterpiece of Zen Garden Design The garden of Saihō-ji is considered by many to be Kyoto’s most beautiful garden and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is especially famous for its lush moss garden, which has earned it the popular name Koke-dera (苔寺), or Moss Temple. In […]
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, […]
Gio-ji（祇王寺）
A Hidden Gem in Kyoto’s Sagano District Giō-ji is a peaceful temple tucked away in Kyoto’s Sagano district, close to the popular Arashiyama area. This small temple is famous for its lush moss garden, shaded by tall maple and bamboo trees. The quiet, dreamlike atmosphere makes it a perfect retreat from the city’s busy tourist […]
Taizo-in (Myoshin-ji)（退蔵院）
A Tranquil Retreat in Kyoto Taizō-in (退蔵院) is one of the oldest and most celebrated sub-temples in the Myōshin-ji Zen temple complex. Founded in 1404, it sits quietly in northwestern Kyoto, away from the city crowds. The temple garden is said to have been designed by painter Kano Motonobu during the Muromachi period. Every corner […]
Hakone Museum of Art – Moss Garden（箱根美術館）
Moss Garden and Japanese Aesthetics in the Mountains The Hakone Museum of Art’s Moss Garden is a lush, serene landscape tucked into the cool, misty mountains of Hakone. Beneath the canopy of around 200 maple trees, narrow stone paths weave through vibrant green moss, offering a peaceful stroll through nature. The unique climate of Hakone—cool, […]
Kosei-in（廣誠院）
A Hidden Zen Gem with Serene Garden Views in Kyoto Tucked away in central Kyoto, Kōsei-in is a small but refined Zen temple of the Rinzai school. While it doesn’t attract large crowds, it offers an authentic and contemplative temple experience. Its quiet presence and elegant design make it a perfect stop for those looking […]