Hogon-in (Tenryū-ji)（宝厳院）

Hidden Zen Garden in Arashiyama

Hōgon-in（宝厳院）is a tranquil sub-temple of the famous Tenryū-ji temple in Kyoto’s scenic Arashiyama district. Originally built in 1461 in Kyoto’s Kamigyo Ward, the temple has a long and eventful history. It was first commissioned by Hosokawa Yoriyuki, who admired the Zen master Musō Soseki. Although Musō Soseki passed away before construction, his teachings deeply influenced the temple’s design. Seichūeikō, the third-generation disciple, brought the vision to life.

The temple was destroyed during the Ōnin War but was later reconstructed. In the Meiji period, it was relocated to its current serene location beside Tenryū-ji. Today, Hōgon-in is known for its breathtaking Zen garden called “Shishiku no Niwa” (獅子吼の庭), or “The Lion’s Roar Garden.” The garden features winding paths, moss-covered stones, and seasonal plants that change with the time of year, offering visitors a calm and contemplative space.

This hidden gem invites guests to walk slowly, observe the details, and enjoy the harmonious balance between nature and design. It is particularly striking in autumn when the garden is ablaze with red and gold leaves. Spring offers delicate greenery and fresh growth, while summer reveals deep shades of moss under the canopy of trees.

Despite being lesser-known than nearby Tenryū-ji, Hōgon-in is well worth the visit for its quiet beauty and rich heritage. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or someone seeking a peaceful retreat, Hōgon-in offers a unique experience rooted in Zen principles and timeless Kyoto charm.

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Gallery

Autumn leaves in the garden of Hōgon-in temple

Pathway under maple trees at Hōgon-in, Kyoto

Zen garden at Hōgon-in with moss and stones

Directions

How to get to the garden

Take the JR Saga Line (ＪＲ嵯峨野線) to Saga-Arashiyama Station (嵯峨嵐山駅) with 8min walk. Take Keifuku-Arashiyama Line (京福電気鉄道嵐山本線) to Arashiyama Station (嵐山) with 5min walk. Kyoto Bus (京都バス) Number 71 and 72 to Keifuku-Arashiyama Station (京福嵐山駅前). City Bus (市バス) Number 28 to Arashiyama-Tenryū-ji Mae (嵐山天龍寺前).

Follow the road to Tenryū-ji entrance, but go to the left over the parking lot before entering the temple.
Hōgon-in lies to the right side.

View Google Map (Google Website)

Address

JP: 京都府京都市右京区嵯峨天竜寺芒ノ馬場町36
EN: Kyoto, Ukyo-ku, Saga-tenryu-ji-susukinobaba-cho 36

Official Website

Opening times

9:00am – 5:00pm
Opens twice a year.

Admission fee

During the special viewing opening times:

Adults: 700 to 1000 yen
Elementary and junior high school students: 300 yen

Facilities & Accessibility

Not wheelchair accessible (some gravel and uneven paths)
Restrooms available at Tenryū-ji temple nearby

Best time to visit

Mid-November to early December during the special viewing opening times.