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Saiho-ji (Koke-dera) 1
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Saiho-ji (Koke-dera)

attraction

Attraction

star

4.4 (1203 reviews)

Zen Buddhist temple known for its extensive moss garden & requiring an advance reservation to visit.

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

+81 75-391-3631

Highlights from Reviews

peaceful atmosphere

The temple offers an incredibly calm, serene, and almost timeless atmosphere, making it a deeply relaxing experience.

sutra copying

The unique experience of hand-copying sutras before entering the garden is described as calming, therapeutic, and grounding.

stunning moss garden

The moss garden is breathtaking, surreal, and unlike anywhere else, featuring diverse species and innovative design.

limited crowds

The reservation system effectively limits visitor numbers, preserving an authentic and intimate experience from mass tourism.

spiritual experience

Many found it to be a quiet, spiritual, and deeply reflective experience, reflecting the essence of Buddhism and Zen.

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