Saihoji Temple

Saiho-ji Temple is a Rinzai Zen temple in Nishikyo Ward, Kyoto City, and is commonly known as "Koke-dera" (the Moss Temple) because of its exceptionally beautiful moss-covered garden. It was founded in the Tempyo era by the monk Gyoki under the imperial patronage of Emperor Shomu. After falling into ruin during the battles of the Kenmu era, it was restored in 1339 (Ryakuo 2) when the head priest of Matsuo Taisha invited Muso Soseki to revive it. The beauty of its buildings and gardens is said to have been known even as far away as China, and its Pure Land-style garden design influenced later gardens such as those of Kinkaku-ji and Ginkaku-ji. The garden, which reaches 35,000 square meters, is designated as a Special Place of Scenic Beauty and a Historic Site by the nation, and more than 120 varieties of moss are carefully maintained. Visiting Saiho-ji requires advance application by return postcard. Visits take place once per day: in July through September, the session is held in the morning, and in other months it is held in the afternoon. First, you take part in chanting and a sutra-copying experience in the main hall and worship, and then you tour the moss-covered garden. Near Saiho-ji are Kegon-ji (Suzumushi-dera), famous for its bell-cricket sermons, and Matsuo Taisha, which enshrines a deity of sake.