Meigetsu-in（明月院）
Kamakura’s Hydrangea Temple with Zen Roots Meigetsu-in（明月院）is a Zen temple in Kita-Kamakura, best known for its vibrant hydrangea blossoms (ajisai) that draw thousands of visitors every June. The vivid blue flowers fill the temple grounds during the rainy season, earning it the popular nickname Ajisai-dera (Hydrangea Temple). Founded in 1383 during the Muromachi period by […]
Shosei-en (Kikoku-tei) （渉成園）
A Hidden Oasis near Kyoto Station Tucked just a few minutes’ walk from Kyoto Station, Shōsei-en Garden offers a peaceful escape from the city’s constant movement. This historical garden belongs to Higashi-Hongan-ji, one of Kyoto’s most important temples of the True Pure Land School of Buddhism. Shōsei-en traces its origins to the early Heian period […]
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. […]
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 […]
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. […]
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 […]
Shirakawa-in Garden（白河院庭園）
Step Into Serenity at Shirakawa-in Garden Tucked away in Kyoto’s peaceful Higashiyama district, Shirakawa-in Garden offers a rare blend of imperial history and modern elegance. While the garden belongs to a high-end ryokan (traditional Japanese inn), its historical roots run deep—stretching back to the early Heian period (794–1185). This land once hosted aristocratic villas, including […]
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 […]