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 […]
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 […]
Ryogen-in (Daitoku-ji)（大徳寺龍源院）
A Hidden Gem of Zen Simplicity in Kyoto Tucked away within the famous Daitoku-ji temple complex in Kyoto, Ryogen-in (龍源院) is one of its twenty-two sub-temples. Despite its modest size, it boasts several fascinating “firsts” and “oldests,” making it a must-see for fans of Zen gardens, architecture, and Japanese history. Founded in 1502 by the […]
Shisen-do（詩仙堂）
A Poet’s Retreat in the Hills of Kyoto Shisen-dō (詩仙堂), nestled in the northern hills of Kyoto, offers a peaceful escape shaped by poetry and nature. Built in 1641 as a retirement villa by Ishikawa Jōzan—a poet, calligrapher, and former samurai—this site later became a Sōtō Zen temple. Today, it remains a beloved destination for […]