[2025 Kyoto Attraction] Travel Guide for Sanzen-in (Updated Jul)

Ohara in northern Kyoto is famous for its autumn foliage, but it is also a great place to enjoy cherry blossoms in spring. Sanzen-in Temple in Ohara boasts a variety of cherry blossoms, including weeping cherry, sato-zakura, and Somei Yoshino cherry trees. These blossoms, combined with the traditional Japanese strolling garden, add vibrant colors and an elegant atmosphere. At the entrance of Sanzen-in, the Goten-mon gate is adorned with a lush weeping cherry tree. The pale pink and white petals add a touch of ancient elegance to the gate. Besides cherry blossoms, the vibrant azaleas, fresh green moss, and towering ancient trees also offer stunning scenery. The most convenient way to reach Ohara Sanzen-in is by bus. First, take the subway to Kokusaikaikan Station, then transfer to a bus to reach the temple.

I'm so glad I didn't listen to them and went! Otherwise, I would have regretted it so much❗️ Sanzen-in Temple gave me a unique moment of tranquility✨ - The courtyard is full of towering trees🌳🌲 and green moss🌿 The Japanese garden landscape is very beautiful, and you can also sit down and have tea. A cup of matcha with a small pastry is 600 yen. Follow the signs all the way, and outdoors is a beautiful maple-lined stone path, perfect for taking photos📸 The sunlight shines through the gaps in the maple trees, and the light and shadow are indescribably beautiful. The whole world feels healing and beautiful☺️ In summer, there are also large hydrangea forests, absolutely stunning! - ⛩ Sanzen-in Temple, Ohara, Kyoto 🎫 Tickets: 700 yen (Cash Only) 🚌 Transportation: Kyoto City Bus No. 17/19, about one hour to Ohara Station, then a 10-minute walk! 🕰 Visiting time: About 2 hours, including round-trip transportation, it is recommended to arrange half a day.

Sanzen-in, is definitely my favorite place during my trip to Kyoto⛰️ Because Li Xian also went there😊😊 I went on a Monday, there were very few people, and it was very quiet! The towering trees in the Jodo Garden🌳🌳, the green moss on the ground Sunlight through The gaps between the leaves are scattered, and the light and shadow are swaying☀️ The eyes are full of green, really very healing🌱🌱 Sitting in front of the temple, you can't help but put down your phone🎵 Feel the wind, listen to the water flow, and breathe fresh air🍃 Enjoy the comfort brought by the green eyes🌿🍃

After visiting Osaka N times, I finally came up with a great 4-day tour guide for Kansai 📖. I recommend spending 1️⃣ days in Osaka, 2️⃣ days in Kyoto, and if there is still time, add 1️⃣ day in Nara. Osaka and Kyoto are both in Kansai, but they are completely different styles, but both are super suitable for taking pictures. You can appreciate the unique beauty of the ancient city, avoid the crowds as much as possible, and take pictures at the same time. Friends who are visiting Osaka for the first time can copy it with confidence! : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : ☑️ When traveling in Japan, many places can be reached within a 10-minute walk. You can enjoy the beautiful scenery while walking. At this time, music is like adding BGM to the scenery along the way. When I travel, I always bring LIBRATONE's new Bird UP headphones with me. Their design is very different from other headphones, simple yet refined. They are also very light, so I won't feel uncomfortable even if I use them for a long time during long journeys. It is an open-back headphone that allows you to hear the melody of music while feeling the natural sounds around you, making your trip full of a different atmosphere. Moreover, it has a high dust and water resistance rating (IP57), making it suitable for all scenarios and weather conditions. Friends who like outdoor activities, sports, travel, and daily music listening, don't miss it~ #大坂之旅

Hey girls! Want to experience the charm of Japan's ancient towns? This 8-day Japan travel guide will take you on a deep tour to experience a different kind of Japanese charm! -------- Japan is located in East Asia and has a rich history. 🗾 From the magnificence of Mount Fuji 🗻 to the charm of the ancient capital of Kyoto 🏞️, Japan exudes a unique Japanese charm. It is often called the Land of Cherry Blossoms 🌸, and the cherry blossom season in spring is not to be missed! -------- 🎉 Itinerary: Day 1: Depart from Wuxi - Arrive at Osaka Kansai Airport - Head to Nara Hotel Depart from Wuxi and fly directly to Osaka Kansai Airport. Upon arrival, you will be met by a guide and transferred to Nara Hotel to rest and adjust to the time difference. Day 2: Nara Park - Todai-ji Temple - Byodo-in Temple Stroll through Nara Park and feel the tranquility and harmony of nature; visit the ancient Todai-ji Temple and experience the depth of Buddhist culture; finally, head to Byodo-in Temple to admire the exquisite and Zen-like Japanese garden. Day 3: Amanohashidate - Ine no Funaya Head to Amanohashidate and experience the wonders of nature; then visit Ine no Funaya and experience the unique Japanese fishing village style. Day 4: Sanzen-in Temple - Kyocera Museum of Art - Kinkaku-ji Temple - Arashiyama First, visit Sanzen-in Temple and experience the fusion of Zen and nature; then head to the Kyocera Museum of Art to appreciate the charm of ceramic art; then visit the golden Kinkaku-ji Temple; finally, stroll through Arashiyama and enjoy the tranquility and beauty of nature. Day 5: Gotemba Park Lanes Spend the whole day at Gotemba Park Lanes, enjoy shopping, and admire the beautiful view of Mount Fuji. Day 6: Free time in Tokyo Enjoy free time in Tokyo, visit local attractions, taste authentic food, or go shopping and relax. Day 7: Free time in Tokyo Continue to enjoy free time in Tokyo and experience the prosperity and vitality of this modern metropolis. Day 8: Depart from Tokyo - Return to Wuxi Head to the airport at the designated time and take a flight back to Wuxi to end your pleasant trip to Japan. 🛫 -------- 🧳 Travel Preparation: 📞 Remember to prepare a Japanese SIM card so you can stay connected. 🔌 Don't forget the plug adapter, as Japan's voltage is 110V, which is different from ours. 🪪 Bring your passport, visa, and driver's license. 👔 It's still quite cold in Japan in February, so bring a thick coat and warm clothes. 👟 Wear comfortable shoes when visiting attractions so you won't get tired from walking. 🔋 Bring a charger and power bank so you can keep your phone charged. 💰 Bring some cash and credit cards for convenient shopping and dining. -------- Enjoy your trip to Japan! Don't forget to share your travel stories~🎉

Sanzen-in Temple in Kyoto is a famous Buddhist temple located in the Ohara area of Kyoto Prefecture. It is widely praised for its tranquil environment and beautiful gardens. The greenery of Sanzen-in Temple is layered, from deep to light, together creating a vivid natural landscape. Moss green: Sanzen-in Temple is famous for its ancient moss-covered gardens. This moss thrives in a humid climate, creating patches of soft greenery, giving a sense of tranquility and simplicity. Tree green: The trees around the temple, such as pine, maple, and cherry, show different shades of green as the seasons change. Spring green, summer green, and autumn green are all part of the green landscape of Sanzen-in Temple. Bamboo green: The bamboo forest near Sanzen-in Temple provides a fresh green background. The tall bamboo and the rustling of the bamboo leaves in the wind add a tranquil atmosphere to the temple. Garden green: The design of the Sanzen-in Temple garden is exquisite, cleverly using the terrain and plant greenery to create a harmonious environment. The green vegetation in the garden contrasts with the stone, water, and sand, highlighting the essence of Zen aesthetics. Seasonal green: The greenery of Sanzen-in Temple changes with the seasons. In the hot summer, the dense green shade cools the heat and brings a hint of coolness. Light and shadow green: The sunlight penetrates the gaps in the leaves, sprinkling on the moss and stone steps, forming mottled light and shadow, adding a sense of mystery and tranquility. The shades of green in Sanzen-in Temple are not only pleasing to the eye, but also bring tranquility to the mind. Here, you can temporarily escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in this ancient and tranquil green world.

Sanzen-in Temple in Ohara, Kyoto It is a historic courtyard. There is a small red bridge and a stream inside There is also a smiling Ksitigarbha statue Layers of green shade surround the temple Sitting quietly in the courtyard for an afternoon is really a very leisurely enjoyment~ A great place full of spirituality and artistic conception! ㊙️ You can get there by using Kyoto's 1-day pass, taking the subway and then the bus 🚇! A great way to save money on the cheap! 🚌 #100TravelWays #100TravelWays #Kyoto #Sanzenin

Kyoto's summer is the breeze, the cicadas' chirping, the sound of wind chimes, and a dream soaked in greenery. A temple, a courtyard, a shop, a cup of tea, it's easy to daydream away an afternoon. - 1️⃣ Yusai-tei 2️⃣ Yusai-tei 3️⃣ Ruriko-in 4️⃣ Kibune Shrine 5️⃣ Sanzen-in 6️⃣ Sanzen-in 7️⃣ Tenju-an 8️⃣ Eizan Electric Railway 9️⃣ Wakakusa Mountain 1️⃣0️⃣ Nakamura Tokichi Byodo-in Store 1️⃣1️⃣ Nara Shisui 1️⃣2️⃣ Kibune Shrine 1️⃣3️⃣ Sanzen-in 1️⃣4️⃣ Eizan Electric Railway 1️⃣5️⃣ Nanzen-ji 1️⃣6️⃣ Yusai-tei 1️⃣7️⃣ Sanzen-in 1️⃣8️⃣ Kamo River

#JapanTravel I'll introduce you to a Kyoto neighborhood that will calm your mind just by looking at it🤗 ⭐️Location: Sanzenin (540 Ohararaikoincho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 601-1242 Japan) 🍯Information: ✔️It closes at 4:30 PM, so you should visit before then! ✔️It's a place that many people visit, and the scenery is beautiful🌳 ✔️You can feel your mind calm just by looking at it🥰 ✔️There are many photo spots inside, so it's great for taking pictures📸

Absolutely loved this temple, the architecture was gorgeous, the atmosphere was very peaceful. Paid for the tea serving and it tasted like the forest itself. I visited in autumn, and although it was very warm in Kyoto, it did get a bit chilly so I’d definitely recommend bringing a windbreaker. A quietly environment, feeling calm when you entered into it. The scent is subtle but makes you feeling fulfilled and calm for the whole day. The restaurant near to it served healthy food with a nice vibe #songkran2024#mytravelhacks#cherryblossom2024#historicallandmarks#localguides#familytrip#trip#instatravel#goodfoods#langkawi#foodphotography#chinatown#ipoh#temples#familyfun#siemreap#edinburgh#คาเฟ่ห้ามพลาด

🍵Sanzen-in Temple is a place I like very much. Compared with other famous temples, it has fewer tourists visiting it. So you can feel a relatively leisurely and quiet atmosphere here. 🍵Although I came here during the weekend, I still felt the leisure time. Fortunately, it was a cool and sunny day, which added a lot to the whole experience. 🍵This is a very beautiful and elegant temple. The entire Sanqianyuan area is very large, and the buildings are very historical and beautiful. These buildings are completely integrated into the environment of the mountains and forests. If you come here in late autumn, you can see the whole mountain covered with red maple leaves. 🍵You need to walk about 600 meters of mountain road before entering Sanqianyuan. There are many green stalls along the way, and some local agricultural products are worth buying. #Osaka Attractions

Sanzen-in Temple What an amazing hidden place Away from the hustle and bustle of tourists and worldly disturbances There is a tranquility and beauty here that most people don’t know At every step It is a cobblestone road that walks through the long river of history. In every breath Feel the freshness of nature and the mist of the ancient temple Don’t just go to those crowded check-in spots If you want to go Just go to a place like Sanzenin where there are few people and beautiful scenery. Here Every inch of land is filled with stories Every leaf whispers an ancient poem Lush trees Flowers bloom in silence In the ancient temple courtyard The stone lanterns quietly watch over the passage of time And I At this moment As if isolated from the world I only wish to bring this tranquility and beauty Treasure in my heart Never Forget Here I found a place that truly belongs to me #Japan and Korea Springtime Destinations

#sightseeing It's famous for its autumn leaves and hydrangeas, but I happened to have a chance to go now, so I said "hey!" and headed out. Sanzen-in Temple, Ohara, Kyoto One of the Tendai sect temples A prestigious temple where a member of the imperial family once served as the chief priest It began when Saicho built a hermitage in the south valley of the eastern tower of Enryaku-ji Temple, and has since moved several times It moved to its current location in Ohara after the Meiji Restoration So I learned that many of the buildings are relatively new The famous Warabe Jizo statue is also there! I was surprised. ᐟ.ᐟ (My understanding is a bit shaky, so google it for more details ·͜· ︎︎ᕷ) It was late summer, but the green maples and moss-covered garden were wonderful The relaxed and humid atmosphere was lovely and I enjoyed the view leisurely I'm looking forward to the autumn leaves season, but I wonder if it will be very crowded... • ───── ✾ ───── • Kyoto Ohara Sanzenin lov @sanzenin_temple_official 540 Ohara Raigoincho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture About 10 minutes from Ohara bus stop ᵒᴾᴱᴺ9:00-17:00 (November 8:30-17:00, December-February 9:00-16:30) Admission fee: 700 yen for adults ⚠︎︎No parking available Nearby private parking costs around 500 yen ⚠︎︎There is a difference in elevation between the bus stop and the temple grounds, so it's a good idea to wear comfortable shoes • ───── ✾ ───── • #KyotoOharaSanzenin #KyotoTourism #KyotoOhara #WarabeJizo #TendaiSectFiveSiteMonzeki

🏯Three thousand courtyards 📍540 Ohara Yingin-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto ⏳9:00~17:00 🎫 700 yen Surrounded by the mountains of Ohara, the courtyard is covered with ancient trees and moss At the three waterfalls, you can take a beautiful picture of the first picture📸 The little Jizo of the healing system merges with the moss and is filled with spiritual energy The embroidery flowers bloom in June and are also very beautiful. It is a good place to wash your eyes and cool off 🌽 Lai Neighbor (at Ohara Station) 📍114 Ohara Yingin-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto ⏳11:30-16:00 💰1500-2000 yen A very characteristic wild vegetable all-you-can-eat, the whole restaurant is surrounded by greenery There are 8 main dishes of rice balls 🍙 and two kinds of curry rice (not spicy). Take all kinds of vegetables at will, cauliflower, green pepper 🫑 eggplant 🍆... There are also some unnamed wild vegetables, which are delicious! 🐱Cat Temple 📍520 Hase Konoe-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto ⏳11:00-17:00 🎫800 yen As said to be a temple, it is practically a kitty museum There are all kinds of toys, furnishings, paintings, canvas bags related to 🐱 Cat shrine, cat bar, cat owner cabinet, and cute cat host If you are a cat lover, this will surely heal you 🏯Rurikoin 📍55 Kamikono Higashiyama, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto ⏳7.1-8.21 (10:00-17:00) 🎫 2000 yen 🍵1,000 yen In previous years, it was only open for spring and autumn, but this summer also opened [Party R]. Green moss covered the entire courtyard like a carpet Sit quietly in the Garden of Glaze, drink a glass🍵 and listen to the sound of frogs Empty your thoughts again and again, you can really reach the state of samadhi🧘🏻♀️ Cr: three horizontal and one vertical

🇯🇵 Osaka travel destination 'Sanzen-in Temple' 540 Ohararaikoincho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 601-1242 Opening hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Admission: 700 yen ㅡㅡㅡㅡㅡㅡㅡㅡㅡㅡㅡㅡㅡㅡㅡㅡㅡㅡㅡㅡㅡㅡㅡㅡㅡㅡㅡㅡㅡ This is a place that you would regret missing out on as a travel destination near Osaka It's a place that you can count as one of the best travel destinations in your life, and even though it rained, It was such a great place that I definitely want to visit again! The smell of grass was so nice and I felt at peace, I sat blankly and watched the rain fall, lost in thought, It was a leisurely moment during my busy trip, so I would like to introduce it to you because it is a place that will be remembered for a long time, so I recommend that you visit it at least once💚 #OsakaTravel #LifePhoto #PhotoSpot #TempleStay #Contemplation #PeaceOfMind #JapanTravel #PhotoSpot #GoodPlaceToGoOnRainyDays #TravelAroundOsaka #PlacesIWantToKnowOnly #BestTravelAroundOsaka

I went to Sanzenin Temple, where you can enjoy Kyoto's beautiful gardens. In the garden of this historic Buddhist temple, you can enjoy hydrangeas in the rainy season and autumn leaves in the fall. The garden, covered in beautiful moss, was very beautiful. Because it is a little far from the center of Kyoto, there were fewer tourists than temples in the center, so I was able to leisurely enjoy the beautiful garden. Thank you for visiting Trip Memory 😊 Please like and follow us. #KyotoTourism

Address: 540 Ohara Raigyoincho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture 601-1242 Sanzenin is a Tendai sect temple located in Ohara Raigyoincho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City. The mountain name is Gyozan. The principal image is Yakushi Nyorai. #trip2023 #coupletrip #hotspring #wintertrip #gourmet

Visited in November 2022 Ohara, Sanzen-in Sanzen-in is a Tendai sect temple located in Ohara, Kyoto☺️ Its origins date back to the 8th century, when Saicho built Enryaku-ji Temple on Mount Hiei, and it is said to have begun as a hermitage built under a pear tree. In the late Heian period, members of the imperial family began to enter the temple, and they continued to serve as chief priests thereafter✨ After the Meiji Restoration, it moved from downtown Kyoto to Ohara and was named "Sanzen-in"☺️ The autumn leaves were at their peak and it was very beautiful🍁 #KyotoTourism#AutumnLeafViewing #Sanzen-in

Address: 540 Raigyoincho, Ohara, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto 601-1242 Access: Bus🚌　 (If you are going by car, there is also a parking lot at the bottom of the hill🚗) In the mountains north of Kyoto City. It is located in Ohara, surrounded by trees🌿 The green moss is also beautiful, and walking makes you feel like time is passing slowly. 😌 The slope leading to Sanzenin is also lined with a stream, which is very pleasant✨ There are many charming shops lined up, and you can enjoy the vibrant shiso juice that is a specialty of Ohara🥤 This spot could be the main attraction of your Kyoto trip🚄 #Kyoto #KyotoTrip #Sanzenin #AmazingView

It's about a 60-minute bus ride from Kyoto Station, and if you have a car, we recommend going there by car. 🚗 You can enjoy the scenery of the four seasons at Sanzenin, and it's a place you'll want to visit every season. Especially during the autumn foliage season, the red of the leaves shines and the scenery is spectacular. #Spectacularview #Kyoto #Sanzenin #JapaneseGarden #trip2022

Access: 17 or 19 system bus. A one-day subway bus pass (1100 yen) covers this route. It's a great deal. Tourist attractions: Sanzen-in, Ruriko-in Hotel: Keihan Hotel Meals & Restaurants: Convenience stores Shopping: Nothing in particular #Useful Travel Info

#summervacay It sounds like your journey on the Eizan Electric Railway was a beautiful immersion into Kyoto's lush greenery! You're right, green is a color full of life, and these serene mountain areas are perfect for artists seeking inspiration. The vibrant green everywhere truly feels cooling to the eyes – so refreshing! Your Planned Route & Experience You originally planned to visit three spots (Sanzen-in, Ruriko-in, and Kifune Shrine), but a small detour on the train meant Kifune Shrine had to be left for another time. It's good to embrace a little bit of imperfection in travel! Why Sanzen-in is a Must-Visit 💚 You strongly recommend visiting Sanzen-in Temple, stating its entrance fee of 700 JPY is well worth it. It's a wonderful place to wander around, feel comfortable, and truly "breathe in the oxygen." Your Route to Sanzen-in (from Shijo Karasuma): Subway: From Shijo Station (四条駅), take the subway to Kokusai-Kaikan Station (国際会館駅). Bus: Transfer to the Bus System 19 (19系统) and ride it to Ohara Station (大原駅). Walk: From the bus stop, it's a pleasant 650-meter walk to Sanzen-in Temple. This journey cost you approximately 690 JPY and took about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Even with a slight change of plans, immersing yourself in Kyoto's tranquil, verdant landscapes sounds like a truly rejuvenating experience. Sometimes, the unexpected detours lead to discovering the most profound serenity! #KyotoTravel #EizanRailway #Sanzenin #KyotoGreenery #NatureWalk #JapanTravel #KyotoTemples #ExploreKyoto #GreenVibes

| The Perfect Way to Beat the Summer Heat in Kyoto. Welcome to our new column #JALStaffRecommendations#, where insiders share travel inspiration! This edition’s recommender is JIANG san from the Shanghai Cabin Crew Team 🎉 ==============Main Content=============== How to escape the scorching summer heat? I recommend a day trip to Sanzen-in Temple + Kifune Shrine in Kyoto. Surrounded by lush greenery and hidden mountain streams and waterfalls, this journey offers both visual and physical relief from the summer heat. If you’ve already visited the crowded Kiyomizu-dera, Kinkaku-ji, and Fushimi Inari Taisha, why not take more time to explore Kyoto’s verdant landscapes and experience the traditional Japanese summer? 🎐 🍃🍃 Sanzen-in Temple One of the three major Tendai sect temples. Nestled among green mountains and clear waters, it’s a short walk from the bus stop along a stream. ✔ Meditate and copy Buddhist scriptures in the temple. ✔ Sip matcha tea while enjoying wagashi sweets in the serene garden. 🍵 📣 Attention stamp collectors! The temple has six stamp stations. Collect all six cute Jizo stamps and exchange them for a special gift at the Golden Fudo Hall! 🎁 On your way back, pick up some Kyoto pickles as unique and affordable souvenirs. 🍃🍃 Kifune Shrine 【Why Visit?】 ✔ The lantern-lined staircase at the main shrine is incredibly photogenic. ✔ Try the water fortune slips—a uniquely Japanese experience where messages appear when dipped in water. ✔ Enjoy Kyoto’s summer specialties: nagashi somen (flowing noodles) and kawadoko dining (riverside cuisine). 【Tips】 1> Nagashi somen is only served until noon and sells out quickly. 2> Kawadoko dining requires reservations. But don’t worry if you can’t book—any riverside restaurant lets you sit on tatami by the stream for photos. 📸 🚗 How to Get There Fly from Shanghai Pudong to Osaka on JAL JL894 ✈ Take the train to Kyoto Station 🚎 👉 To Sanzen-in Temple: ① Take Kyoto Bus 17 to Ohara and walk. ② Take the Karasuma Line to Kokusaikaikan Station, transfer to Bus 19 to Ohara, and walk. 👉 To Kifune Shrine: ① From Ohara Station, take Bus 55 to Kibuneguchi, then transfer to a shuttle bus. *Limited bus schedules—check times in advance. ② Take a taxi directly to Kifune Shrine (~20 mins, ~¥4,000). *Saves time, ideal for families with kids or elderly. Now’s the perfect time to book! Round-trip flights from Shanghai ⇔ Osaka start at just ¥650* (excl. taxes). Fly with JAL and start your cool summer getaway ✈ 👉 Promo Details Click our profile to visit the JAL Official Flagship Store for more info.

Didn't expect Kyoto's rainy season to be this intense - it poured nonstop for three days and two nights. From Nara to Arashiyama to Kyoto, what a hassle. Yet another highly productive day. June 2025. Since this is my fourth visit to Kyoto, I'm no longer interested in checking off tourist spots among crowds. This time I chose the Prince Ponds International Hotel Autograph Collection near the International Conference Center - spacious rooms, beautiful quiet surroundings, essentially living within a garden landscape. After breakfast, took a bus to Kyoto Kyocera Museum of Art near Heian Shrine, then hopped on Route 32 City Bus to Sanjo-Kawaramachi. Visited one of my favorite department stores, BAL - must say BAL is truly stylish and shopper-friendly with numerous boutiques, completely outclassing the old-fashioned Daimaru nearby... On impulse, decided to visit Sanzen-in Temple for the first time - previously avoided due to distance, but staying at the International Conference Center made it conveniently accessible. Took Kyoto Bus #19 from the MOMA stop at Sanjo-Kawaramachi (note there are two adjacent stops - make sure to board the Kyoto Bus, not City Bus). After 45 minutes, alighted at Ohara. Followed the crowd up the temple approach - the continuous uphill walk required some stamina (about 15 minutes). Finally reached the entrance. Sanzen-in is famous for its vibrant moss gardens, even more lush after rain. The downpour left the grounds immaculate, with air so fresh it felt liquid. Thick, velvety moss carpets stretched before us like emerald rugs. Thanks to the rain and nearing closing time, crowds were thin - mostly Chinese female tourists determined to get their perfect shots, lingering endlessly at the red Japanese bridge. The hydrangea path wasn't in full bloom yet (needs 2-3 more weeks) - Kyoto's hydrangeas seem later than Kamakura's. Checking photos from last year, Kamakura's hydrangeas were already spectacular by this time. Spent about an hour strolling before descending the same path (much easier downhill). Shops along the route had already closed - Japanese businesses aren't into overtime, closing more diligently than opening. Returned to Ohara Station for Bus #19 back to the International Conference Center, stopping at a supermarket en route for some sake and snacks to enjoy in my room. Sanzen-in Temple absolutely lived up to expectations - definitely ranks among my favorite Japanese gardens now.

Here is a carefully curated travel guide for Sanzen-in Temple in Kyoto, covering beautiful scenery, delicious food, and cost-effective accommodation recommendations to help you easily plan your trip: --- ### 🌿 **Must-See Scenery at Sanzen-in** 1. **Jubikan Garden** - A pond-style garden in front of the guest hall, designed by Edo-period tea master Kanamori Sowa. Sitting inside the hall’s tea room (matcha + sweets 600 yen), you can enjoy a Zen-like view of maple leaves and moss through the window lattice—a perfect experience to soothe your body and mind. - **Best Season**: Mid-November during the autumn foliage (red and yellow mix), and May when azaleas bloom. 2. **Yuseien Garden & Ojo Gokuraku-in** - The garden is like a moss carpet scattered with adorable “Child Jizo” small Buddha statues (6-8 in total), with cute poses like resting their cheeks or praying, hidden among moss fields and stone lanterns waiting for you to discover. - Deep inside, Ojo Gokuraku-in houses the national treasure Amida Triad statue, with a rustic thatched roof surrounded by ancient cedar trees. 3. **Golden Fudo Hall and Kannon Hall** - At Fudo Hall, you can get protective charms or hand-paint a “Okigari Koboshi” wishing doll; climb the stone steps to Kannon Hall, where the golden Kannon statue and the “Garden of Compassionate Eyes” create a tranquil atmosphere. - **Bonus**: The Ritsukawa Path often has wild birds, and the hydrangea garden in early summer (June-July) looks dreamlike. --- ### 🍱 **Oohara Specialty Food Recommendations** 1. **Kyoto Pickles (Tsukemono)** - Along the “Oharame Path” to Sanzen-in, many long-established shops offer Kyoto-style pickles made from local northern Kyoto vegetables. Recommended are sweet and sour radish and pickled eggplant, perfect as souvenirs. 2. **Shojin Ryori (Vegetarian Cuisine)** - Family restaurants near the temple like **Obanzai Oohara** serve vegetarian dishes such as tofu soup and vegetable tempura, with set meals around 1000-1500 yen. 3. **Tea House Breaks** - Enjoy matcha with red bean cake at the guest hall tea room (600 yen), or try the free specialty shiso gold leaf tea at “Wagokoro-do” beside the Golden Fudo Hall. --- ### 🏨 **Cost-Effective Accommodation Recommendations** The following hotels are within a 15-minute walk from Sanzen-in, affordable and highly rated: 1. **Ryoso Chatani Japanese Inn** - **Location**: 10-minute walk (750m)｜**Price**: About ¥640/night - Offers free bicycles, hot spring baths, traditional tatami rooms with garden views, and a simple breakfast included. 2. **Yunoyu Onsen Ohara Sansui Hotel** - **Location**: 15-minute walk (1.2 km)｜**Price**: About ¥1,050/night - Focuses on affordable hot spring experiences, includes a foot bath café, some rooms have mountain views, ideal for soaking and relaxing. 3. **Convenient City Access: The Prince Kyoto Takaragaike** - **Location**: 30-minute bus ride (7 km)｜**Price**: About ¥680/night - A four-star value hotel surrounded by Japanese gardens, with convenient subway connections, suitable for combining city sightseeing. --- ### ⚠️ **Practical Tips** - **Transportation**: Take bus lines **17/19 from Kyoto Station to “Oohara Station”** (1-hour ride, 560 yen one way), then a 10-minute walk. It’s recommended to buy the “Kyoto Subway & Bus One-Day Pass” (1100 yen) for unlimited rides without extra fare to Oohara. - **Tickets & Hours**: Adult admission 700 yen｜Open hours: November 8:30-17:00, other months from 9:00. - **Suggested Itinerary**: - Morning: Sanzen-in (2-3 hours) → Noon: Hosen-in (800 yen admission, dry landscape garden) → Afternoon: Jakko-in (quiet nunnery). - In summer, extend to Kibune Shrine (water divination + riverbed dining), taking the Eizan train through the autumn foliage tunnel. > 💡 **Autumn Foliage Season Alert**: Mid to late November is peak season; it’s best to enter right at 8:30 opening to avoid crowds; the moss garden is greener after rain, so bring a macro lens to capture Jizo details. The beauty of Sanzen-in lies in the Zen spirit and harmony with nature through the seasons. Spending half a day quietly sitting before the garden will surely bring you healing beyond expectations. Have a pleasant journey!

#cityplaybook #localguides Nestled in the peaceful mountain village of Ohara, just north of Kyoto, Sanzen-in Temple is a tranquil haven known for its elegant gardens, historic halls, and gentle atmosphere that invites quiet reflection. Founded over 1,200 years ago by the revered monk Saichō, this Tendai Buddhist temple is both spiritually and visually captivating. Visitors enter through a charming moss-covered path, leading to the Kyakuden Hall, where beautifully framed views of the Shūhekien Garden unfold like a painting. Beyond lies the Ojo Gokuraku-in Hall, a sacred space housing a graceful statue of Amida Buddha, surrounded by peaceful scenery. Sanzen-in is especially enchanting in autumn, when its gardens glow with red and gold maple leaves, and in spring, when cherry blossoms and fresh moss create a dreamlike atmosphere. Scattered throughout the grounds are whimsical warabe jizō (childlike stone statues), peeking through the moss and adding a playful charm. 📍 Ohara, Kyoto (approx. 1 hour from central Kyoto by bus) 🕘 Open daily: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (seasonal changes apply) 🎟️ Admission: ¥700 for adults #Sanzenin #OharaKyoto #HiddenKyoto #JapaneseGarden #TempleRetreat #CityPlaybook #MossGardenMagic

#Osaka Transportation Guide 📍Address: 540 Ohara Einmachi, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture (That’s right! Although it’s called Osaka Sanzen-in Temple, it’s actually in the suburbs of Kyoto, and you can get there in 1 hour from Osaka!) 🚆Transportation Tips ❶ Osaka Station → [JR Tokaido Line] → Kyoto Station (30 minutes) ❷ Kyoto Station → [Bus No. 17] Ohara-bound terminal (1h) ❸ After getting off the bus, walk along the mountain trail for 15 minutes (the sound of streams and the old miso shop along the way are super atmospheric!) 📸Must-take amazing photos ▫️Main Hall "Jubi Garden": Kneel on the tatami and look at the moss garden (the light and shadow are amazing!) ▫️"Child Ksitigarbha" stone statues: the cute little ones hidden in the moss are so cute that they melt your heart ▫️Houshan Maple Forest: November red maple season comes with a luminous filter (it is recommended to wear white clothes!) 🍵Garden Teahouse Experience ▪️Matcha set 1200 yen: rich matcha🍵+fruit+tatami view seat ⏰Golden Timetable 7:30 The first wave of people came to the site to contract the unmanned courtyard 11:00 The Tyndall effect of light and shadow penetrating the treetops 🎫Ticket Information Adults 700 yen / Junior high school students 400 yen / Elementary school students 150 yen 🌟Closed on the second Tuesday of every month! Don't run away! 👗OOTD Suggestions Light-colored cotton and linen long skirt + straw bag Choose your slippers carefully! Many stone steps are slippery 🍱Nearby food ▫️Qingsheng Tea House: Soy milk hot pot + wild vegetable tempura (window seats require reservations) ▫️Shinomatsumon: 300-year-old sesame tofu shop ▫️Ohara Coffee: Drink Kyoto Latte in a Traditional Bun-Shaped Cup 📌Tips: The Kansai Free Pass can cover all transportation, and it is even more photogenic when combined with Kibune Shrine/Rurikoin! #Beautiful scenery during the journey #Osaka Travel #Secrets of Kyoto #Sanzen-in Temple #Japan Free Travel #Niche Attractions #Green Travel

#Osaka Transportation Guide After visiting the World Expo, there was still one day left, so I decided to go straight to Kyoto! Sanqianyuan, recommended by countless people, is full of greenery, like a hidden paradise, completely isolated from the hustle and bustle of the outside world. June is the season when hydrangeas are in full bloom, and the vast sea of ​​blue and purple flowers injects full summer vitality here! It is strongly recommended to set off early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy the healing greenery 💚💚! 🚃 Osaka ⇄ Kyoto Sanzen-in Temple Transportation Guide 1. Tram + Bus: ◦ From Osaka Umeda Station, take the JR Kyoto Line to Kyoto Station (approximately 30 minutes). ◦ Transfer to Keihan Bus No. 88 at Kyoto Station and get off at Sanzen-in Station (approximately 50 minutes). It is a 3-minute walk from here. 2. Express trains: ◦ Take the Sagano Express train from Osaka Station to Kyoto Station, and then transfer to the bus to save time in the city. 3. Charter/rental car: ◦ Suitable for group travel or travelers seeking convenience, with direct access to attractions and flexible itinerary arrangements, but the cost is relatively high. 🌿 One-day selected routes Sanzen-in Temple→Arashiyama Train→Bamboo Forest Trail→Tenryu-ji Temple→Togetsukyo Bridge→Shinsaibashi Bridge→Dotonbori 🍴 Attractions, food and special features • Sanzen-in Temple: For lunch, we strongly recommend the tofu dishes at Kyomei Tea House or the soup leaf set meal at Rokawa Tea House to taste the most authentic Kyoto flavor. • Sagano Train: A must-try in Arashiyama! Traveling along the railway tracks through the green mountains is like walking into the fairy tale world of Hayao Miyazaki. • Bamboo forest path: the same scene as in Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon! The bamboo shadows sway in the backlight, and any shot you take is a masterpiece. • Tenryuji Temple: A must-visit World Heritage ancient temple in Arashiyama, where Zen and nature blend perfectly. • Togetsukyo Bridge: The filming location of the Conan movie “Crimson Love Letter”. Whether you are taking pictures of the reflection of the bridge or the distant mountains, it is super beautiful! • Arashiyama Station Foot Bath: When you are tired of shopping, come here to soak in a Yufuin-style foot bath, paired with a small dessert, and instantly restore your energy! • Shinsaibashi/Dotonbori: After returning to Osaka, head straight here to feast on okonomiyaki, takoyaki and other specialties! If you want to take a relaxing one-day trip to Kyoto, just copy this guide! There are many attractions in the Arashiyama area, so you won’t feel tired after playing there. #旅游万粉支持计划 #Let's go first #Kyoto one-day tour #Kyoto Arashiyama route #Kyoto Sanzen-in Temple #Togetsukyo Bridge #Osaka Travel #Japan Free Travel

#AprilGoodDestinations2025 At Sanzen-in Temple in Kyoto, moss is a major feature of the garden, covering every inch of the garden and forming a unique green landscape. These mosses shine with vitality under the sunlight, making people feel the tranquility and harmony of nature. Strolling along the trails of Sanzen-in Temple, you will be surrounded by a tranquil atmosphere, and the soft touch of the moss and the fresh scent will make you feel happy. This is an ideal place for meditation and relaxation, away from the hustle and bustle of the city and immersed in the beauty of nature. Sanzen-in Temple is not only a great place to appreciate moss, but also has ancient temples and beautiful gardens that are worth savoring.