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Sanzen-in Temple

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Quiet stroll in the moss garden of Sanzen-in Temple in Ohara, a secluded village in Kyoto

Sanzen-in Temple is located in the village of Ohara, at the northeast of Kyoto City. Surrounded by quiet mountains, Ohara has been a peaceful retreat for nobilities since ancient times, and has been written about in many poems. The foundation of Sanzen-in Temple was in the 8th century, said to have begun its long history with the hermitage built on Mount Hiei by the monk Saicho. Its two renowned gardens offer much to admire in each of the four seasons, and it is also famous for the cherry blossoms and autumn foliage.

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Hosen-in Temple

Located nearby Sanzen-in, the main attraction of Hosen-in Temple is the “picture-framed garden” on the west side of the guest hall. The garden can be seen from inside of the temple through the space between pillars, creating an impression of looking at the garden through a picture frame. Especially captivating is the over 700-year-old Japanese white pine shaped to resemble Mount Mikami (nicknamed “Mount Fuji of Omi”), which can be appreciated from various angles in the picture-framed garden.

Jakko-in Temple

Jakko-in is a historical temple said to have been established by Prince Shotoku in 594, and is one of the representative spots of Ohara. Especially beautiful is the exquisite scenery of the narrow curved stairway enclosed by lush trees on both sides, leading up from the entrance to the main temple.

OHARA RIVERSIDE CAFÉ KIRIN

For lunch in Ohara, we recommended OHARA RIVERSIDE CAFÉ KIRIN, where you can enjoy plenty of fresh vegetables including just-picked produce from Ohara. Savor delicious vegetable dishes surrounded by clear air and the bubbling sound of Takano River, and gazing at the beautiful mountains of Ohara.

Location

Name Sanzen-in Temple
Website http://www.sanzenin.or.jp/en/Opens in a new window. In the case of an external site, it may or may not meet accessibility guidelines.
Address 540 Ohararaikoin-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
Access From JR Kyoto Station, take the Kyoto Bus #17 line for approximately 60 minutes, get off at Ohara bus stop and then walk for approximately 10 minutes.
Inquiries TEL: 075-744-2531

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