Shōren-in eBook – Discover Kyoto’s Imperial Temple Garden
We are excited to present our new Shōren-in eBook, a special release alongside our series The Secret Gardens of Tokyo.
Shōren-in – An Imperial Temple in Kyoto
During a study trip to Kyoto in early winter 2015, we visited several gardens that left a strong impression. Shōren-in fascinated us with its modern fusuma sliding doors and the calming atmosphere of its temple gardens, inspiring this eBook.
A Temple with Deep History
Shōren-in traces its origins back to the Heian period (794–1192). Founded by an Emperor as a place for his son’s education in the teachings of Gyogen, it has always been closely tied to the Imperial family. Later, it became one of the five Monzeki temples of the Tendai sect.
Famous Gardens of Shōren-in
The grounds feature several gardens, the most notable being the pond garden, most likely designed by Soami, and the Kirishima garden, attributed to Kobori Enshu. Beyond these, every corner reveals a small garden, each connected to significant temple buildings.
Treasures and Connections
Many structures within the temple house national treasures and maintain close historical links to the Tokugawa shogunate. The combination of gardens, history, and architecture ensures that Shōren-in offers endless discoveries. Despite its popularity, even being listed in Lonely Planet, the temple still feels like a secret garden in busy Higashiyama.
Learn More with Our eBook
Our eBook explores the history, gardens, and buildings of Shōren-in in detail, helping readers appreciate its cultural and historical depth.
Our 14-page eBook includes 33 photographs with detailed explanations of every highlight. Available in PDF and mobi formats for just $4.95—or you may choose to pay more if you wish to support our work.
Shōren-in Garden Guide
This eBook explores the gardens, treasures, and history of Shōren-in Temple in Kyoto.
Perfect for lovers of Japanese gardens, temple architecture, and hidden sites in Higashiyama.
Learn more before your visit—or revisit the temple from home.
Hope you have fun with your new eBook about a wonderful temple in Kyoto! Feel free to leave a comment here or a review on Goodreads!
-Anika
With twelve years of professional landscaping experience under her belt, Anika Ogusu is your perfect guide to the world of Japanese gardens. Her love of nature began early, in the woods near her childhood home and the garden of her grandmother’s house. During her teenage years she developed a strong interest in Japanese culture, and after university she decided to combine her love of Japan and gardens into a profession. Anika started her career as chief gardener in charge of the perennial valley at the Botanical Garden in Hamburg, Germany, then moved to Tokyo in pursuit of her dream. For two years she apprenticed under local landscape designers and learned the art of Japanese garden design, construction and maintenance. Now, in partnership with Real Japanese Gardens (www.japanesegardens.jp), her wish is to spread the magic of Japanese gardens to the rest of the world. Her in-depth guide books on gardens throughout Japan are available in eBook format or paperback. In her free time, Anika enjoys exploring her adopted country (especially green moss gardens), and soaking up nature and any details that interest her.
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With twelve years of professional landscaping experience under her belt, Anika Ogusu is your perfect guide to the world of Japanese gardens. Her love of nature began early, in the woods near her childhood home and the garden of her grandmother’s house. During her teenage years she developed a strong interest in Japanese culture, and after university she decided to combine her love of Japan and gardens into a profession. Anika started her career as chief gardener in charge of the perennial valley at the Botanical Garden in Hamburg, Germany, then moved to Tokyo in pursuit of her dream. For two years she apprenticed under local landscape designers and learned the art of Japanese garden design, construction and maintenance. Now, in partnership with Real Japanese Gardens (www.japanesegardens.jp), her wish is to spread the magic of Japanese gardens to the rest of the world. Her in-depth guide books on gardens throughout Japan are available in eBook format or paperback. In her free time, Anika enjoys exploring her adopted country (especially green moss gardens), and soaking up nature and any details that interest her.
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