Discover a Quiet and Peaceful side of Kyoto
Sanzen-in is a Tendai sect temple located in Ohara, Sakyo Ward—about a 30-minute drive from central Kyoto—yet it is enveloped in tranquility, and the garden of cedar trees and moss spreading out before the Ojo Gokuraku-in Hall is truly beautiful.
Location
Located in the Ichijoji area of Kyoto’s Sakyo Ward, this Tendai sect temple traces its origins to a foundation established at the summit of Mount Hiei by Saicho, the founder of the sect.
It is a prestigious *monzeki* temple—one with a history of having members of the Imperial family serve as its head priests.
The temple offers many highlights, including gardens and sliding door paintings (*fusuma-e*) created by renowned artists.
Location
Myokaku-ji temple is a Nichiren-sect temple located in Kamigyo Ward; the Sengoku-period warlord Oda Nobunaga frequently stayed there when visiting Kyoto, and tea ceremonies hosted by Sen no Rikyu were also held on the premises.
It is a place where one can quietly experience the changing seasons, despite its location in the city.
Location
Myoman-ji Temple is located in the Iwakura area of Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, and is famous for its “Snow Garden” (*Yuki no Niwa*). This is a dry landscape garden designed by Matsunaga Teitoku—considered the father of *haikai* poetry—and it offers a beautiful view that incorporates the snow-capped Mount Hiei as “borrowed scenery.”
Location
Ninna-ji Temple is famous for its late-blooming “Omuro cherry blossoms,” but the fresh greenery of early summer is also stunningly beautiful.
The temple grounds offer a serene atmosphere, with the fresh foliage and the five-story pagoda creating a truly beautiful scene.
On this particular day, special effects—such as the use of smoke—added an even more mystical air to the setting.
