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Church & Religious Site

Saihō-ji

📍 Saihō-ji, Kyoto, Japan
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4/ 5.0
★★★★☆

Quick Facts

Location
Japan, Kyoto
Category
Church & Religious Site
Duration
1-2 hours
Address
Saihō-ji, Kyoto, Japan
Coordinates
35.0200, 135.6700

Introduction

Saihō-ji, on Kokedera street in Nishikyō, Kyoto, is popularly called 'Kokedera' (Moss Temple) for the 120 moss species carpeting its garden. The garden is a World Heritage site, and visits follow a strict reservation system by mailed postcard — one of Kyoto's hardest temples to book.

✨ Highlights

1
120 mosses
A garden like a green velvet carpet.
2
World Heritage
Part of Kyoto's historic monuments listing.
3
Strict booking
Apply by mailed postcard — extremely hard to get.

🛈 Practical Info

→Location:56 Matsuo Jinyachō, Nishikyō-ku, Kyoto, Japan
→Time needed:About 1.5 hours including sutra copying
→Ticket Information:About 4,000 yen including sutra copying

💡 Tips

• Apply by post one to two months ahead.
• The visit includes sutra copying — allow time.
• Rain makes the moss greener and more magical.

FAQ

How much is the admission for Saihō-ji?

About 4,000 yen including sutra copying

Any practical tips for visiting Saihō-ji?

Apply by post one to two months ahead. The visit includes sutra copying — allow time.

How long should I spend at Saihō-ji?

A typical visit takes 1-2 hours.