Kezoji Temple

Zen temple in Nishio, Aichi Prefecture, in the same city that produces much of Japan's ceremonial matcha. The temple's garden features a central moss lawn, a koi pond, and stone paths under clipped pines that have been maintained in a style consistent with Zen garden principles. The connection to the local tea culture is felt in the seasonal tea events held on the grounds, where visitors can drink matcha in a setting that emphasizes stillness and unhurried attention. The temple itself is not large, and a visit takes about 30 minutes, but the garden holds up well to slow and careful looking.