Rural Kyoto One Day Tour of a Tranquil Landscape in Ohara

Ohara Sanzenin Temple was built 1,200 years ago by Saicho, an ambassador of Buddhism, and has been presided over by the prince and members of the imperial family for generations. Many valuable temple treasures and cultural assets can be seen here, including the Sanzonzo statue, designated as a National Treasure. On the temple grounds, there are two famous gardens called "Shuheki- en" and "Yusei-en," that a famous novelist called "jewels of the Orient”. You can enjoy the tranquil scenery throughout the seasons: cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in summer, autumn leaves in fall, and a blanket of snow in winter. The small and cute Jizo (stone statues) seen dotted throughout the moss-covered gardens are also soothing.

Shorinin Temple was built 1,000 years ago. It is famous for thefact that Honen, the founder of the Jodo sect of Buddhism, held the Ohara Mondo, where he discussed and answered questions about the doctrine of the Pure Land Nembutsu with the learned priests. It is also known as the birthplace of Buddhist music Shomyo. Shomyo is ceremonial music with rhythms and intonations added to Buddhist scriptures to convey Buddhist teachings to people, and is said to be the origin of Japanese songs of later generations. Shomyo echoes as you enter the main hall, allowing you to experience the atmosphere of the Buddhist world.

The main attraction of Hosenin is the framed garden through which visitors view the garden by using the pillars and Kamoi gate as picture frames. The 700-year-old pine trees and bamboo grove seen from inside the room are as beautiful as a picture in a frame, and the elegant sound of the suikinkutsu (water harp) attracts many visitors. You can admire the beautiful garden while enjoying a matcha green tea and traditional sweets.

Jakkoin Temple was built by Prince Shotoku 1,500 years ago and is known as a nunnery where women have served as chief priests for generations. The temple grounds have a quiet and serene atmosphere, and the cherry blossoms in spring and the autumn leaves in fall are so beautiful that they were even included in a waka poem in the Tale of the Heike. Noblemen and ascetic practitioners used to go to Jakkoin for a retreat as it is said to be very tranquil and relaxing.