Saihoji

📍 Kyoto, 京都市 · kyoutoshi nishigyouku matsuo kami ke tanimachi 56

About

Mountain 洪隠山
Sect 臨済宗系単立
Principal 阿弥陀如来
Founded 731年(天平3年)
Founder 行基(開山)、夢窓疎石(中興開山)
Heritage 庭園(特別名勝・史跡)

📿 Goshuin Info

Hours

9:00–16:00

Fee

¥500

Direct-write

Available

Pre-written

Available

📍 Open in Google Maps

History

Byakko

Renowned as the Moss Temple, this sanctuary is covered with over a hundred species of moss, embodying the aesthetic beauty of ancient Kyoto. Kannon's compassion permeates this sacred ground, with each verdant moss reflecting divine light. The garden represents a pure land free from worldly attachments.

Benefits

Kannon faithSpiritual purificationHarmony with nature

Goshuin Gallery

Photos

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Visit Notes

🙏 1

The moss and sutra copying are beautiful and unique. It’s nice that you can only visit through reservation, as it means it can’t get as busy as many Kyoto temples. It is also quieter, since they do a good job of asking for silence.

More to visit

See all shrines in Kyoto