Discover a Quiet and Peaceful side of Kyoto
As the head temple of the Obaku school—founded by the eminent Chinese Zen master Ingen Ryūki—it retains the atmosphere of China’s Ming Dynasty, distinguishing it from typical Japanese temples.
Three of its main structures, including the *Hattō* (Dharma Hall), have been designated as National Treasures.
The temple grounds are expansive and offer many sights to see; I was able to tour the site in a wonderfully tranquil atmosphere.
Location
Located south of Shimogamo Shrine, this site features a quiet garden and a traditional Japanese house that evokes a sense of nostalgia.
It is open to the public as the former villa of the wealthy Mitsui merchant family.
When I visited, the bellflowers were in beautiful bloom.
Location
After passing the “Kamogawa Delta”—where the Kamo (or Kamogawa) and Takano Rivers converge—you proceed along an approach through the Tadasu-no-Mori (Forest of Tadasu) to reach Shimogamo Shrine. This forest preserves the same type of primeval vegetation found there as far back as the 3rd century BC. Shimogamo Shrine is considered one of Kyoto’s oldest shrines, with origins dating back to before the Heian period.
Location
The “Nirvana Garden” uses garden stones to depict the scene of the Buddha’s passing, while offering a magnificent view that incorporates Mount Daimonji as “borrowed scenery.”
The “Zuien Garden” is a modern dry landscape garden that incorporates the family crest of the Mitsui family, who had deep ties to Shinnyo-do Temple.
Location
Right next to the entrance, there is a display of the portable shrine actually used by the Retired Emperor Go-Uda; additionally, the *Shinden* (main hall) is packed with highlights, such as sliding door paintings by Kano Sanraku.
Location