Saiho-ji (Moss Temple)

  • Kyoto
  • Sightseeing
  • Spring
  • Summer
  • Autumn
  • Winter

Saiho-ji, also a World Heritage site, is globally known as "Koke-dera" (Moss Temple) for the mystical beauty of over 120 types of moss covering the grounds. Visiting here requires advance reservation, featuring a style that emphasizes spirituality, where visitors participate in religious activities like sutra copying before viewing the garden. The garden, like a green carpet wrapped in silence, is said to have been loved by Steve Jobs and brings deep peace to the heart. This sanctuary is chosen by travelers seeking to experience the ultimate beauty where Zen spirit and nature perfectly harmonize beyond mere sightseeing.

Saiho-ji (Moss Temple)
Favorite
西芳寺｜Saihoji Temple 　　　Music by　haruka nakamura

西芳寺｜Saihoji Temple 　　　Music by　haruka nakamura

Saiho-ji (Moss Temple)

Address
56 Matsuo Jingadani-cho, Nishikyo-ku, Kyoto
Website
https://saihoji-kokedera.com/
Operator
Saiho-ji Temple (Kokedera)

Nearby Spots

Suzumushi-dera Temple
Kyoto

Suzumushi-dera Temple

Formally known as Kegon-ji, "Suzumushi-dera" is famous for the sound of bell crickets chirping all year round, offering a very rare experience in Japan. The "Suzumushi Seppo" (Sermon) by the chief priest is full of humor and provides life wisdom, attracting many worshipers. It is also famous for having Japan's only Jizo statue wearing "Waraji" straw sandals (Kofuku Jizo), said to walk to your house to grant your wish. The belief that it will grant exactly one wish is strong, and it is a place to spend a spiritual time facing your own desire in a precinct surrounded by a...

  • Kyoto
  • Sightseeing
  • Spring
  • Summer
  • Autumn
  • Winter
Hoshinoya Kyoto
Kyoto

Hoshinoya Kyoto

From Arashiyama’s Togetsukyo Bridge, travel upriver by private boat to the quiet sanctuary of Oku-Arashiyama. There you find "Hoshinoya Kyoto," a luxury resort designed as a "waterside private residence." The space, a modern restoration of a 100-year-old traditional building, is a supreme hideaway where you can monopolize the murmuring of the Hozugawa River and seasonal mountain views from your window. With programs like traditional Kyoto confectionery making and morning Zen services by the water, it offers the "ultimate Japanese experience" beyond mere accommodation. It fascinates travelers worldwide seeking silence and sophistication in nature's rhythm.

  • Kyoto
  • Accommodation
  • Spring
  • Summer
  • Autumn
  • Winter
Kyoto City Nishikyo Area
Kyoto

Kyoto City Nishikyo Area

The Nishikyo area in western Kyoto City is a spiritual region where unique famous temples gather, such as the World Heritage site "Saiho-ji (Moss Temple)" and "Suzumushi-dera," known for the chirping of thousands of bell crickets. Close to Arashiyama, the calm flow of the Katsura River and beautiful mountain ridges blend into the daily scenery. It also houses "Katsura Imperial Villa," considered a masterpiece of Japanese gardens, where you can glimpse the height of Japanese architectural beauty and landscaping techniques. It is a popular area for travelers who want to step away from busy tourist spots and thoroughly enjoy traditional...

  • Kyoto
  • Sightseeing
  • Spring
  • Summer
  • Autumn
  • Winter
Tenryu-ji Temple
Kyoto

Tenryu-ji Temple

Located in the center of Arashiyama, Tenryu-ji is a premier temple registered as a World Heritage site. Built by Ashikaga Takauji to mourn Emperor Go-Daigo, the greatest highlight of this temple is the "Sogenchi Garden," the first place in Japan to be designated as a Special Historic Site and Special Place of Scenic Beauty. The garden, incorporating Arashiyama and Mt. Kameyama as borrowed scenery, preserves its appearance from 700 years ago, and the view of mountains reflecting in the pond is breathtaking. The giant "Unryu-zu" (Cloud Dragon) painted on the ceiling of the Hatto hall offers a mystical experience where...

  • Kyoto
  • Sightseeing
  • Spring
  • Summer
  • Autumn
  • Winter
Kyotoに戻る