Moutsuji

Moutsuji is a renowned temple of the Tendai sect founded during the late Heian period by the second and third generations of the Oushu Fujiwara clan, Motohira and Hideehira. In its heyday, it rivaled Chusonji in scale and was praised as "unparalleled in our realm" for its grand temple complex. Though many buildings have been lost, the Heian-period garden remains in nearly perfect condition and is designated as a Special Historic Site and Special Place of Scenic Beauty as a masterpiece of Pure Land garden design. The beautiful garden centered on Senin Pond represents the Pure Land paradise manifested in the present world, purifying the hearts of all who visit throughout the seasons.