While the crowds flock to Arashiyama, a quiet, historical treasure awaits just south of Kyoto in Yawata City. Shōkadō Garden & Art Museum (松花堂庭園) is far more than a simple Zen retreat. It is a cultural crossroads where culinary history, world-changing invention, and seasonal beauty meet. From its origins as the spiritual home of the […]
Shōkadō Garden Art Museum: The Birthplace of the Shokado Bento Read More »
Close to the mountainous area west of Kyoto Station, besides the weeping cherry blossom, Shōbō-ji (西山正法寺) is a hidden plum blossom spot in Kyoto that only a few know about. The temple is nicknamed a Rock Temple (石の寺) because unique rocks were collected from all over the country. Many of them are placed in its
Shōbō-ji and Its Stunning Rock Garden and Plum Grove Read More »
Most people visit Kyoto for its traditional vibe. While the temples and shrines are certainly the must-sees in the city, you are missing out if that is all you have on your itinerary! Kyoto Botanical Garden (京都府立植物園), also known as the Kyoto Prefectural Botanical Garden, is a hidden gem in the northern part of Kyoto
Kyoto Botanical Garden: Kyoto’s Best Spot to Adore Flowers Read More »
The ancient city of Kyoto has enchanted the hearts of many international tourists, making it one of the hottest tourist destinations in the world. But while the tourism boom has certainly brought in a fortune to the local businesses, many find their visits increasingly unpleasant, with temples and shrines over-commercialized and over-crowded.
Ōhara – Where You Meet the Traditional Townscape of Kyoto Read More »
Just in front of Sanzen-in is a restaurant specializing in tofu skin cuisine. Kyoubijaya (京美茶屋), with a history of more than 60 years, has served the monks in Sanzen-in since its establishment. While tofu skin might not sound enticing to you, don’t turn your nose up without giving it a try! You will be surprised
Kyoubijaya: The Place to Enjoy Amazing Tofu Cusine in Ōhara Read More »
After you have your fill at Ōhara‘s landmark, Sanzen-in, you can follow the Rosen River (呂川) and enjoy a 5-minute hike to Raigō-in (来迎院). The temple, surrounded by rich nature, sits quietly at the top of a small hill. In autumn, the approach to Raigō-in will be one of the most vivid paths you will
Raigō-in: The Temple where a New Buddhist Sect Was Born Read More »
Next to Sanzen-in, Jikkō-in (実光院) is another temple with stunning garden views in Ōhara (大原). While the ground of the gardens of Jikkō-in is covered by moss, the flowers of around 150 different kinds of plants will catch your attention from spring to autumn. In winter, another highlight of Jikkō-in is the cherry tree that
Jikkō-in – A Temple to Adore Cherry Blossoms from Autumn Read More »
Situated at the foot of Mt. Hiei, most temples in Ōhara (大原) belong to the Tendai sect. However, Shōrin-in (勝林院) is different. While the teachings of the Tendai sect are taught at Shōrin-in, it is a temple where people chant the name of Amida Buddha, a practice of the Pureland sect. In the past, Shōrin-in
Shōrin-in – The Temple where a Historic Debate Took Place Read More »
In Ōhara, other than Sanzen-in, Jakkō-in (寂光院) is another characteristic attraction. The temple on the village’s west side has many maple trees planted in its precinct. During the fresh green and fall foliage season, the scenery in the temple attracts many tourists who are more than happy to make an effort to enjoy the masterpieces
Jakkō-in Temple – Ōhara’s Somewhat Sad but Gorgeous Landmark Read More »
Just a 5-minute walk from Kyoto Ōhara’s (大原) prime attraction, Sanzen-in, is the Hōsen-in Temple (宝泉院). While the scale of Hōsen-in is smaller than Sanzen-in, think twice before giving it a pass. Because in addition to two gorgeous gardens, the temple also has a historical element that can be traced back to 1600!
Hōsen-in and Its Amazing Gardens and Blood-Stained Ceiling Read More »
