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

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

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"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

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Saihōji (Kokedera) Temple

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"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

Gary G.

Google

It was nice but for what it is the admission is very high. You must make reservations in advance. They claim to limit the number of guests to keep it serene but it seemed like a parade on the path. It was tough to get photos without other people in them and there are few places to relax and enjoy the serenity and focus on the garden with a constant stream of people. Other temples have moss gardens that were as nice but not as crowded and a small fraction of the entrance fee. Bring cash for the coffee shop across the street from the entrance.

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.

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!

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

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.