Kosho-ji Temple

興聖寺

4.3Est. 60Uji, Kansai

Local Pick

Overview

1233 Soto Zen temple on a hillside above the Uji River; the 600-meter approach maple tunnel is the autumn-foliage signature.

A 1233 Soto Zen temple on a hillside above the Uji River, founded by Dogen as the first Soto temple in Japan (the school was later headquartered at Eihei-ji in Fukui). The 600-meter approach (the Kotozaka, or Lute Slope) is lined with about 200 maple trees, making it one of the densest autumn-foliage tunnels in Kyoto. The main hall holds a wooden Shaka Buddha statue; the meditation hall is open to visitors who wish to attempt zazen.

Local tips

Closed during retreats (variable). November autumn foliage peak is the second to third week. Free entry to the grounds; main hall 500 yen.

Practical info

Japanese name: 興聖寺

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