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

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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

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

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.

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.

Abi T.

Google

Most stunning place I have visited in Japan. Especially beautiful in the autumn. There is a limit to the number of guests able to visit per day, so book ahead as it is reservation only. This is great, because means it is one of the lesser crowded places to visit, and therefore feels authentic and easy to enjoy as it is intended.

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.

Jessica C.

Google

A must visit location for a bit of self eflection amd tranquillity amongst a beautifully maintained heritage site. Book online prior to coming, there is no entry otherwise on the day. Prepare to copy a written text prior to visiting the gardens, this was a unique experience using a writing desk in a temple. The sutra is a blessed token you can take woth you to remember your experience by. Of course with all the photos you'll no doubt take.

Chelsea P.

Google

You have to buy/reserve tickets beforehand. I believe we got ours a week before. It keeps the crowds at bay so better photos! Earlier times have less people as with most temples in the area. Absolutely beautiful.

Roman Č.

Google

⚠️ Instagram tourist trap ⚠️ • The entry needs to be reserved in advance and costs 4000 yen per person! • The sutra copying is a gimmick, if you are a tourist. If you are a Buddhist, then there are definitely more accessible options. • The garden is nice, but overrated. If you've ever been to any forest in Japan, then you could find a lot of moss covered places. I get it that is is not so neatly organized as in a garden. • The walk in the garden is roughly 20 minutes. • The price is so high just because Steve Jobs visited. Before is was few hundred yens (according to other reviews). • There are other, much cheaper alternatives, e.g. Gioji temple. Totally not worth it. Total rip-off.