Saihoji (西芳寺), a world heritage site, was established in the Nara (奈良) period and is better known by its common name, Kokedera (苔寺, the moss temple). It is truly a nice place to visit during your stay in Kyoto.
*Visitors must make a prior registration.
At the temple, visitors first experience Shakyo (写経, Sutra copying) to soothe the everyday busy mind, and then enjoy the profound view of the classic garden covered with 120 breeds of moss. If you observe the moss closely, you will notice the difference between the breeds. The famous Kinkaku-ji (金閣寺, Golden temple) and Ginkaku-ji (銀閣寺, Silver temple) are said to be designed based on the concept of this garden.
When I visited there, it was raining. Absorbing a lot of moist, the moss looked animatedly growing. This season of fresh greenery is the perfect time to visit the temple.
Akane Kibune
Access:
Kokedera/Suzumushidera, Kyoto bus
URL:
MAP:
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