Kokedera Temple (Saihōji)

Religious spot

★ 4.9 (21K+ reviews) • 445K+ booked

Discover the enchanting Saihōji Temple, also known as Kokedera or the Moss Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled in the heart of Kyoto. As it nears its 1,300th anniversary, this serene sanctuary invites you to embark on a journey of self-discovery and renewal amidst lush greenery and tranquil surroundings. Famously dubbed the 'Moss Temple,' Saihōji captivates visitors with its lush garden adorned with over 120 varieties of moss, offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. A visit to this historic Zen temple promises a unique and unforgettable experience, offering a glimpse into the harmonious blend of nature and spirituality. Whether you're seeking a tranquil escape or a deeper connection with nature, Saihōji Temple is a must-visit destination that will leave you feeling rejuvenated and inspired.

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

Overview

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4.9 /5

21K+ reviews

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Andrew *****

1 Jul

Amy did is awesome job of getting the group to the sites we wanted to see. she was helpful in explaining the different areas we went as well as taking pictures if you asked her.

Gunadi **************

1 Jul

nice hotel and strategic places, very near to Kyoto station only one station and the park view very beautiful

Mary *****

1 Jul

Such a peaceful and scenic ride—perfect for relaxing and soaking in Arashiyama's natural beauty!

클룩 회원

30 Jun

I usually prefer independent travel, so I was reluctant to take a package tour. The schedule is tight, there is little freedom, and sometimes a semi-mandatory shopping schedule is included, so I have always chosen to plan my trips on my own. However, this trip was my boyfriend's last trip to Japan before he leaves for the US for a few years, so I put a lot of thought into the planning and wanted an efficient and satisfying schedule. Then, I found out about the Kyoto bus tour of 'Travel One Bowl' on the internet, and since the reviews from actual users were all positive, I made a reservation with half doubt. To conclude, I was very satisfied. I was able to enjoy the beautiful bamboo forest of Arashiyama, Togetsu-kyo Bridge, the dazzling Kinkaku-ji Temple, Fushimi Inari with its numerous red torii gates, and Kiyomizu-dera Temple, the symbol of Kyoto. I was able to leisurely enjoy Kyoto's key attractions with ample time. There was almost no time error in the schedule, so I was able to enjoy the trip as planned, which was especially satisfying. Even though I went without any information, the route and explanation were clear, so I was able to tour without any confusion. When I told the guide that the air conditioning seemed weak, he took immediate action and kept checking to see if there were any inconveniences, so I was impressed by the service. The bus was comfortable, the guide was cheerful and kind, and the photo shoots at each photo spot were really sincere. He also told me the best photo spots, so I got a lot of great photos. This was my first time with such a kind guide. Thank you, guide Jeong Sang-hoon! I had no idea where to eat in a new place, but he gave me detailed information about good restaurants, cafes, and souvenirs, so it was much easier and more informative. Thanks to him, I was able to make really precious memories with my boyfriend, and it was a trip full of warm memories. Next time I go to Japan, I want to go to Fukuoka, and I want to use Travel One Bowl again. Thank you for creating memories that will last a long time.

Klook客路用户

30 Jun

I hope you all come to take this photo. The service is great, there are so many choices, the clothes are all new, neat and beautiful, and basically any style can be satisfied. Every clerk has a very good service attitude.

전 **

30 Jun

"You know <Travel One Bowl>? I'm Inma! <Travel One Bowl>, so I ate! I went to a cafe! I went shopping! I went sightseeing! I did everything!" It was really the best trip! Kyoto is a place where it's hard to move between tourist spots. If you just stay in Kyoto for a few days, you can enjoy the atmosphere of Kyoto and take your time sightseeing... But what if!!! If you come to Osaka and can't miss Kyoto and stop by for a day, there are so many things you want to see, but you have to wait for the bus. What about a taxi? Oh~ It's so expensive... Especially these days, when the temperature is over 30 degrees and it rains sometimes, it's just stressful. That's what the weather was like when we actually visited... If you brought adults or have children, it would be even more chaotic... In times like this! "Travel One Bowl"'s Kyoto tour was the perfect product. The important explanations are finished on the bus! We only go to the important points together, and from then on, you're free. It was a program that only combined the advantages of a real package and independent travel. Of course, because of the nature of the package, you may not feel like you have enough time... But "Travel One Bowl" has the longest stay time at each tourist site compared to other Kyoto tours. Thanks to that, we were able to take a lot of pictures, eat at a restaurant we had already chosen, visit a cafe twice, and go around cute shops to buy furikake and souvenirs, and eat famous snacks~ Even if you don't have a restaurant or cafe in mind, the guide will give you a map and send you a list of recommendations via KakaoTalk, so don't worry~ If you say, "I'm hot and tired, I want to rest," you can wait in the air-conditioned bus until the other travelers come back~ Also, at Arashiyama and Kinkaku-ji, they took pictures with the camera you brought, and they said they would edit them and send them to you~ They even sent you a Japanese fortune-telling translation via KakaoTalkㅋㅋㅋ → Thank you to our guide, Seo Chae-hee, for doing all this! I really recommend it!

Sandra ***********

30 Jun

Unfortunately, it rained heavily on the day of travel, but the ride on the Sagano Romantic Train was still unforgettable. The entire train crew bids you a sweet farewell upon departure, and the conductor tells you all about the route. There's a great little museum and café at the station, and all in all, the ride is highly recommended; the river and the forests are beautiful.

클룩 회원

30 Jun

It's June 30th. I went on a tour with Noh Min-ho as a guide. It's absolutely impossible to do this without a tour in such hot weather. The guide's detailed explanations and ample viewing time were great. The guide's guide to the meals and tea house were also good. I had the very cheap 950 yen cold udon with egg and ma, and it was so delicious. I really appreciate the sense of taking a few pictures for me. My wife really liked Kiyomizu-dera Temple. The temple itself was nice, but it was also appealing to be able to see many places near it. I will recommend this to my friends who couldn't come with me because their reservation schedules didn't match~ Kyoto~! If you want to save time and see everything, go with the Travel One Bowl Tour~~!!

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Remarkable Landmarks and Must-Visit Sights

Moss Garden

Welcome to the enchanting Moss Garden at Kokedera Temple, a true masterpiece of Japanese garden design. This lush oasis, crafted by the legendary Zen priest Muso Soseki, is home to over 120 varieties of moss. As you wander through this verdant paradise, you'll be captivated by the heart-shaped pond and the vibrant tapestry of colors that emerge in autumn. Whether you're seeking inspiration or tranquility, the Moss Garden offers a serene backdrop for reflection and relaxation.

Sutra Copying and Chanting

Step into a world of spiritual tranquility with the Sutra Copying and Chanting experience at Saihōji. This unique opportunity allows you to engage in the sacred practices of kito and shakyo, immersing yourself in the chanting and copying of Buddhist scriptures. It's a chance to connect with the temple's rich religious traditions and find a moment of peaceful introspection amidst the serene surroundings.

Main Hall and Fusuma Paintings

Discover the cultural treasures of Kokedera Temple's Main Hall, where the exquisite fusuma sliding screens come to life with the artistry of 20th-century painter Domoto Insho. This seasonal attraction, available during the winter months, offers a unique glimpse into the temple's artistic heritage. As you explore the Main Hall, you'll be transported into a world of intricate beauty and historical significance.

Cultural and Historical Significance

Kokedera Temple, also known as Saihōji, is a treasure trove of history and culture. Founded in the 700s by Bodhisattva Gyoki, it has been a spiritual haven for centuries. The temple's gardens, crafted by Muso Kokushi in the 1300s, are a testament to its enduring beauty and have inspired iconic landmarks like Kyoto's Golden and Silver Pavilions. Despite facing natural disasters and war, the temple's moss-covered landscape has become its signature allure. Originally a villa for Prince Shotoku, it was transformed into a Zen temple during the Nara Period, reflecting its deep cultural significance and ongoing spiritual practices. The site, once an ancient temple, was reimagined in 1339 by the esteemed monk Muso Soseki, whose garden designs embody the essence of Zen Buddhism in Japan.

Local Cuisine

While exploring Kyoto, treat yourself to the city's exquisite culinary delights. Experience kaiseki, a traditional multi-course Japanese meal that showcases the art of seasonal ingredients. Don't miss the chance to savor Kyoto-style sushi and tempura, each offering a delicate balance of flavors that reflect the region's rich culinary heritage.

Kokedera Temple (Saihōji)