Kannonin

Kannon-in is a Zen temple in Tottori city renowned for its exquisite Japanese garden, which has been designated a National Place of Scenic Beauty. The compact strolling garden centers on a heart-shaped pond ringed by carefully shaped pine trees, mossy stones, and pruned azaleas that reflect centuries of meticulous horticultural care. Originally built in 1632 as a family temple for the Ikeda clan lords of the Tottori Domain, the garden incorporates borrowed scenery from the surrounding mountains. The temple is particularly stunning in late November when the maples turn deep crimson against the evergreen pines. It sits within walking distance of Tottori Castle ruins, making it easy to combine both sites in a single morning visit.