Saihōji (Kokedera) Temple

Buddhist temple · Kyoto-shi ·

Saihōji (Kokedera) Temple

Buddhist temple · Kyoto-shi ·

Zen temple famed for moss garden, requiring advance reservations, offering contemplation

Information

56 Matsuojingatanicho, Nishikyo Ward, Kyoto, 615-8286, Japan Get directions

@travelleisure

28,641 Postcards · 5,542 Cities

25 Most Beautiful Cities in the World

"A tranquil, garden-rich temple famed for its moss-covered grounds and requiring advance reservations to visit, offering a contemplative experience often likened to walking through a living Studio Ghibli scene." - Anne Olivia Bauso Anne Olivia Bauso Anne Olivia Bauso is a travel writer and hotel expert based in New York City. She has written hundreds of hotel reviews, from 5-star Ritz-Carlton properties to treehouse eco-resorts in the jungle. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines

https://www.travelandleisure.com/most-beautiful-cities-in-the-world-6931288

Saihōji (Kokedera) Temple

@afar

25,132 Postcards · 3,702 Cities

"It’s said that the human eye can see more shades of green than any other color. Put the theory to the test at the Koke-dera, or Moss Temple, a veritable spectrum of jades, mints, artichokes, emeralds, and olives. TheUNESCO World Heritage site, formallyknown as Saihoji, ishome to around 120 types of moss, which carpet the temple ground’s forested floor in ways Akira Kurosawa couldn’t have dreamed up. Reservations to the temple must be made by snail mail months in advance in Japanese. After arrival, visitors are also asked to participate in Koke-Dera’s religious activities by observing kito and shakyo (respectively, the chanting and copying of Buddhist scriptures, called sutra)."

The Best Things to Do in Kyoto

Photo by John Lander/age fotostock

Saiho-ji

M. Hunter H.

Google

What a special place. We found copying the sutras inspired peace prior to the garden visit. What a marvel this wonderful place is, with so much to offer the open heart. We went in late Fall when it was neither too busy, nor devoid of people. Photographs don't do it justice. This was likely as close to Yoda's Dagobah as we will get. Sorry to the people who don't get the Star Wars reference. Would absolutely go back if given the opportunity.

Noa S.

Google

A truly peaceful and unique experience! The visit began with Sutra copying, which was incredibly calming and brought a deep sense of quiet to my mind. Afterward, I took a serene stroll through the moss garden, which was absolutely beautiful and so tranquil. I highly recommend visiting this special place it's unlike any other. Just be sure to book in advance, as number of visitors per day is limited

Romina J.

Google

One of the best temples we visited in Japan - it is so peaceful and the garden is absolutely stunning! And the fact that you have to pre-book your visit time means less crowds, which is a breath of fresh air after Kyoto's amount of tourists!

Jakub P

Google

Absolute gem. Tranquil and beautiful. The unusual sutra copying calms your mind and the garden visit is in one of the most beautiful gardens I've seen in Japan. Definitely with the admission fee, need of resort reservation and the drive.

Elisabeth A.

Google

Cathedral like vibe .. from a western visitors point of view! Having gone to the wrong Saiho-ji temple (there are two in Kyoto) … I was obliged to take a taxi or be very late for my 11.30 time slot.. but yes it was 100% worth the 4000¥ entry fee, pre booked in the U.K. and the 4600¥ taxi fare! This is a unique strolling garden of understated beauty & peacefulness. Not perhaps for those wanting to tick off another site on their “seeing Japan in 10days holiday/vacation!” People were quiet, calm, sitting, taking it in with their eyes & photos. Someone in these reveiws said it wasn’t worth coming to .. and gave it one star, but it’s definitely one that will remain in the mind after.

Guido de W.

Google

one of the most serene places I’ve ever visited. The experience begins with a moment of quiet reflection through sutra copying, setting the tone for a mindful visit. The moss garden is breathtaking. lush, soft, and shimmering in countless shades of green. Every corner feels timeless and beautifully still. A visit isn’t just sightseeing; it’s a gentle reminder to slow down and reconnect with the present. Truly unforgettable.

Wittapon J.

Google

Such a peaceful and tranquil place that reflects the essence of both Buddhism and Zen. The early fall colors contrast beautifully with the moss colors. The garden designed by Musō Soseki is still the source of inspiration for modern landscape designers.

Ray G

Google

This is a temple that moss enthusiasts must visit during the rainy season. The moss here is well-maintained and features a variety of species, unlike other temples that have a more limited selection. The design of the courtyard is also very innovative, with a different scenery at every step, making it suitable to spend several hours exploring at a leisurely pace. The reservation system also helps maintain a relatively quiet atmosphere in the temple. During my visit, I explored the entire courtyard in heavy rain, and I hope to have the opportunity to return here after the rain next time. After all, having wet shoes and socks can affect the overall experience.