the Moss Temple

Kokedera.the moss temple, is the nickname of the Zen temple Saihōji in the western part of Kyoto. Though famous for the thick mosses that carpet the grounds, the ubiquitous moss actually dates only from the 19th century when the temple fell into disrepair.

  Since 1977 visitors must apply in advance for entrance and are required to trace the Heart Sutra before entering the gardens.

entrance to the temple

the meditation stone

groves in the garden

steps to the wilder side of the garden

ōgonchi

the golden pond

the heart sutra

to copy

modern calligraphy on doors in sutra copying room