Kokedera Temple(苔寺), a World Heritage site, was founded by Prince Shotoku about 1,300 years ago.The official name of the temple is Saiboji, but it is generally called Koke-dera (moss temple) because of the blanket of moss covering the garden.
The garden, designed by Muso Kokushi, is a two-tiered structure with a karesansui (dry landscape garden) style at the top and a pond garden style at the bottom. The 35,000-square-meter garden consists of four islands and eight bridges around the golden pond. 120 varieties of green mosses in 35,000 square meters are breathtaking. It is said to be most beautiful during the rainy season, when the moss becomes darker and greener.
To visit Koke-dera Temple, apply by return postcard (indicating the number of people, address, name, and desired date) or online.To visit the temple, visitors must first copy the Hannya Shingyo Sutra in the main hall, and those who have completed the sutra may walk around the garden.
Access from Kyoto Station to Kokedera Temple takes about 51 minutes by bus.
opening hours | designation※The visit takes about 60 minutes. |
regular closing day | Designated day of visit※Apply in advance by return postcard (number of people who wish to attend, representative's address, name, preferred date [multiple dates recommended], e-mail address or phone number) or online. |
entrance fee | More than 4,000 yen※No admission to the garden only ※Up to 2 people ※Ages 13 and up |
bus stop | Kyoto Bus Kokedera/Suzumushidera bus stop |
station | Hankyu Matsuo Taisha Station※Approx. 20 minutes walk from the nearest station※About the same distance from Kamikatsura station. |
parking lot | No parking |
official site | Kokedera Temple |