Shoden-ji Temple

正伝寺

4.6Est. 90Kyoto, Kansai

Local Pick

Overview

A Zen temple with a karesansui garden that borrows Mount Hiei as its backdrop. Ryoan-ji without the crowds.

Shoden-ji is a Rinzai Zen temple in northern Kyoto whose dry landscape garden uses shakkei (borrowed scenery) to frame Mount Hiei through clipped azalea hedges. The garden's seven-five-three grouping of bushes mirrors Ryoan-ji's famous stone arrangement. The blood-stained ceiling boards from Fushimi Castle add a haunting historical layer.

Local tips

Sit on the veranda in the early morning when mist hangs over Mount Hiei. The garden becomes an ink wash painting come to life.

Practical info

Japanese name: 正伝寺
Nearest station: Kitaoji Station (Karasuma Line)
Payment: Cash only

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