A UNESCO World Heritage Site in Kyoto, famous for its lush moss garden with over 120 varieties, providing a peaceful and reflective atmosphere.
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Moss on moss, known locally as “koke-dera,” or the Moss Temple, gives many Ghibli fans flocking to Japan these days a place to feel real Princess Mononoke vibes. Saihō-ji Temple has over 1,300 years of Zen history and aims to “tune” and inspire its visitors. It was revered by Steve Jobs, who called it his favorite temple in Kyoto and spoke highly of his experience while visiting.
What makes the temple unique, besides the moss, is its advanced reservation system, which helps limit crowds and preserve the atmosphere. Photographs don’t do the place justice. Each visit begins with copying sutras, if you’re comfortable with that, a practice meant to quiet the mind before basking in the temple’s lush greenery. It’s pricier than many free temples, but with a higher price comes greater Zen responsibility.
Facilities & Services
- Advance reservation required
- Sutra copying or meditation session prior to garden entry
- Open daily; specific visiting hours provided upon reservation confirmation
- No on-site parking; public transportation recommended
Contact
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