Ryosokuin Temple

One of the sub-temples of Kenninji, Kyoto’s oldest Zen temple, it was founded by Ryuzan Tokken, a monk of the Rinzai school. It is usually closed to the public, but opens for special viewings during the New Year season and for special garden viewing in early summer. It is also open to the public only during zazen meditation and sutra copying experience sessions.

The garden is a beautiful front garden by the Chinese-style gate, with sand, moss, and green pine trees. In early summer, some of the leaves of the hangesho plants growing in clusters by the pond turn white, as if they were blooming. A special garden viewing is held during this season. The dates are usually from June 1 to mid-July, and admission is 1,000 yen for adults. In the New Year season, there is also a special opening of the 32 fusuma sliding door paintings in the Hojo, painted by Sesshu Tenkai.

Zazen meditation experiences are also available, and after the meditation session and Buddhist talk, visitors can worship the principal image and tour the garden. Reservations are required in advance, and you can choose a date and time from the available schedule on the official website. Sutra copying experiences, held almost daily, can also be reserved in advance or joined by applying on-site.