Discover a Quiet and Peaceful side of Kyoto
Kurodani Konkai-Komyoji Temple is the site where the priest Honen first established a hermitage; it also served as the headquarters for the 1,000-strong Aizu Domain troops—who held the post of Kyoto Military Governor—during the closing days of the shogunate, and is the birthplace of the Shinsengumi.
Its magnificent main gate is truly impressive.
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
It is known as a hidden temple in the Rakuto area.
While Shinnyo-do is famous for its autumn foliage, visitors can enjoy strolling through the spacious grounds across all seasons, taking in sights such as fresh green maple leaves and cherry blossoms.
The temple houses numerous architectural structures and cultural assets, including a three-story pagoda.
Location
At the start of the tour of Katsura Imperial Villa, the guide pointed out that the grounds contain 24 stone lanterns and 8 water basins.
The photo shows a few of these; notably, there is a water basin serving as a *tsukubai* (ritual purification basin) in front of the teahouse.
These elements, including the lanterns, serve as distinctive accents throughout the garden.
Location
The tour of Katsura Imperial Villa takes approximately 60 minutes to complete, with a guide providing detailed explanations at various points along the route. Visitors can enjoy the changing seasonal scenery from the strolling-style pond garden and the four teahouses situated around it.
Location