Saiho-ji Temple
西芳寺
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The Moss Temple
Saiho-ji Temple is a historic shrine and temple in Kyoto, Japan. We've gathered 16 videos so you can explore it across the seasons on screen.
Saiho-ji, popularly known as Kokedera or 'the Moss Temple,' is a UNESCO World Heritage Zen temple in western Kyoto. Its celebrated garden, laid out by the priest Muso Soseki in the 14th century, is carpeted in some 120 kinds of moss; entry is by advance reservation and includes a session of sutra copying.
History & Culture
A Garden of Moss
The Zen master Muso Soseki transformed the temple in 1339, creating a two-tiered garden that later became famous for the moss that gradually carpeted its grounds.
Model for Japanese Gardens
Saiho-ji's design influenced later gardens including Kinkaku-ji and Ginkaku-ji, and in 1994 it was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of Historic Kyoto.
Matsuo, Nishikyo-ku, Kyoto
- Kokedera / Suzumushi-dera bus stop (Kyoto City / Keihan Bus)
Advance reservation required (visit includes sutra copying)
From ¥4,000 (reservation)
Hours and fees are a guide and may change — please check official information before your visit.
