The Must-Visit Spot in Kyoto (8): The Zen Beauty of Sanzen-in

Sanzen-in | Encounter the Zen Beauty Interwoven with Nature and History "A winding path leads to a secluded place, where the Zen room is surrounded by flowers and trees." This poetic line perfectly describes Sanzen-in in Kyoto 🏯✨. Nestled in the mountains, this ancient temple is like a hidden gem, radiating a unique charm. Sanzen-in is a Tendai sect temple located in Ohara, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, Japan. It was founded in 1118 and is also known as "Gyozan." Having withstood the test of time, it has witnessed countless stories 📜. The main deity enshrined here is a wooden statue of Amida Nyorai, flanked by two attendant statues, all of which are designated as nationally important cultural properties, rich in historical and cultural value. 🗺️ Highlights You Shouldn't Miss ✅ Shuhekien Garden: This is a pond-viewing garden that visitors can admire from the guest hall. It is said to have been constructed by the Edo-period tea master Kanamori Sowa. The pond's crystal-clear waters reflect the surrounding greenery and architecture, exuding a serene and harmonious beauty 🌿. ✅ Yuseien Garden: A strolling pond garden, its name originates from a poem by the Chinese poet Xie Lingyun, "The mountains and waters have a clear sound." The garden is filled with cedar trees, lush moss, and is especially famous for its autumn foliage 🍁. Near Benten Pond, you'll also find many moss-covered Jizo statues, which are irresistibly adorable. Finding them has become a fun part of the visit 🧐. ✅ Ojo Gokuraku-in Hall: It is said to have been built by the Tendai Pure Land master Eshin Sozu Genshin to pray for his parents. Inside the hall, the solemn and majestic Amida Triad statues are enshrined, radiating an aura of compassion 🙏. 💰 Admission and Opening Hours Admission: 700 yen per person, cash only 💴, so make sure to prepare in advance. 🚌 How to Get There From Kyoto city center, take Kyoto Bus No. 17 to the final stop "Ohara." It's just a short walk from there 🚏. The journey takes about an hour, costing 510 yen one way or 1,000 yen round trip 💸. ⚠️ Note that buses run only once an hour, so check the schedule carefully to avoid long waits! 💡 Tips: - Visit on a weekday morning to avoid crowds. - Bring small change for the admission fee. - Autumn, during the foliage season, is the best time to visit 🍂. - There is a tea room inside the temple where you can rest and enjoy matcha 🍵. Sanzen-in is truly a place where you can quietly experience Zen, escape the hustle and bustle of the city, and enjoy a moment of tranquility 🍃.