Ryoanji Temple

Map

History & Origins

Hosokawa Katsumoto founded the temple in 1450 (the 2nd year of Hotoku), but it was destroyed by fire during the Onin War (from 1467). Hosokawa Masamoto rebuilt it in 1488, and it has continued to the present. The creator of the rock garden and its exact date of construction are unknown. The garden, which distills Zen thought, has drawn researchers and visitors from Japan and abroad.

Highlights

The hojo garden (the rock garden) is a rectangular space 25 m wide and 10 m deep, covered with white gravel and set with fifteen large and small stones in groups of 5, 2, 3, 2 and 3. It is famous for being designed so that, from any angle, at least one stone is always hidden behind another. The grounds also include Kyoyochi Pond, a stroll garden with a pond, where the seasons can be enjoyed.

Visitor Guide

Get off at Ryoanji Station on the Keifuku Electric Railway Kitano Line and walk about 7 minutes. Hours are 8:00-17:00 in summer (March-November) and 8:30-16:30 in winter (December-February). Admission is 600 yen for adults and 300 yen for elementary and junior high school students. The rock garden looks beautiful in the morning light, so arriving right at opening is recommended. Allow about 45-60 minutes.

Best Season

The rock garden is beautiful in every season, but April, when the cherry blossoms bloom, and November, with autumn foliage, color the whole grounds and make for a special atmosphere. On snowy days, the white gravel and snow blend into a profound, subtle scene.

Blessings

Annual Events

• March

  Nehan-e (Nirvana Memorial Service)

  A service commemorating the death of the Buddha is held.

• November

  Autumn Special Opening

  The grounds are colored by autumn foliage, and many worshippers visit. The foliage around Kyoyochi Pond is said to be especially beautiful.

Travel Plan

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