Hosen-in（宝泉院） - Real Japanese Gardens

Framed Garden Views and Silent History in Kyoto

Hōsen-in（宝泉院）is a peaceful sub-temple of Shōrin-in, located in Kyoto’s rural Ohara district. This hidden gem is known for its beautiful framed garden view and quiet atmosphere. The garden sits in front of a lush bamboo grove. From the tatami room, the wooden pillars and beams naturally frame the scenery like a living painting. This view is one of the temple’s highlights and a reason many visitors come.

Guests are invited to sit on the tatami floor, relax, and enjoy a bowl of freshly prepared matcha tea while admiring the peaceful garden. Additionally, the calm setting and subtle sounds of nature create a truly meditative experience.

However, Hōsen-in also holds a darker reminder of Japan’s violent past. Some of the ceilings and floorboards come from Fushimi Castle. Fushimi Castle was the site of a tragic mass suicide by samurai warriors in 1600. Therefore, these “blood ceilings” (血天井, chitenjō) are stained with the warriors’ blood and have been preserved in temples like Hōsen-in as a memorial to their sacrifice.

The contrast between serene beauty and silent remembrance makes Hōsen-in unique. It’s not only a place to appreciate Japanese garden design but also a site that connects visitors to deep cultural and historical layers.

Nestled in nature and a bit off the beaten path, Hōsen-in offers a slower, more reflective visit than many popular temples. Whether you come for the tea, the garden, or the history, Hōsen-in leaves a lasting impression.

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Gallery

Framed garden view from the tatami room at Hōsen-in

Spring vibes in front of Hōsen-in garden

Garden view next to the tatami room at Hōsen-in

Directions

How to get to the garden

From Kyoto station, take the Ohara line bus towards Ohara (大原). It takes a little more than 1 hour to get to Ohara. Hosen-in is behind Sanzen-ji, so just follow the other visitors to Sanzen-ji (600m to the east) and then walk further uphill (north) for 200 meters.

View Google Map (Google Website)

Address

JP: 京都市左京区大原勝林院町187
EN: Kyoto-shi, Sakyo-ku, Ohara Shorin-in-cho 187

Official Website

Opening times

9am – 5pm

(Last Admission at 16:30)

Admission fee

Adults: 900 yen
Junior and Senior High School students: 800 yen
Elementary school students: 700 yen
(10% discount for groups of 30 or more)

Facilities & Accessibility

Matcha tea included with admission
Restrooms available
Shoe-off tatami room experience
Some uneven steps, partial wheelchair access limited

Best time to visit

Autumn is considered the best time to visit Hōsen-in. During late October to mid-November, the maple trees around the temple explode in fiery reds and golds, creating a breathtaking contrast with the lush bamboo grove.