KyotoTravel

Sit on the veranda and quietly gaze upon the world-famous stone garden to your heart's content

About this spot

One of the World Heritage sites designated as "Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto," this Zen temple is known worldwide for its Abbot's Hall garden—the famous "Ryoan-ji Stone Garden" with fifteen stones arranged on white sand. Its reputation spread internationally after being praised by Queen Elizabeth II. Sitting on the veranda to quietly contemplate the arrangement of stones also serves as a rest for grandparents who have walked here. It is said that all fifteen stones cannot be seen at once from any single viewpoint, and counting the stones together with your grandchild becomes part of the enjoyment. Behind the Abbot's Hall stands a "tsukubai" (stone water basin) inscribed with "We are satisfied in knowing only our sufficiency." The circuit path that loops around Kyōyō Pond in the grounds features beautiful seasonal flowers and trees, and the view across the pond can be savored at leisure. This renowned temple, where one experiences quiet itself, is an ideal place for three generations to spend unhurried time together.

Tips

From Kinkaku-ji, walk along the Kinugasa Trail for about 20 minutes, or take City Bus to "Ryoanji-mae" station for immediate access. To enter the Abbot's Hall where the stone garden is located, remove your shoes before ascending; there are stone steps inside, so grandparents should hold onto the handrails. The veranda allows for seated viewing, and if you visit in the late morning before crowds arrive, you can settle in and view the garden leisurely. There is also a parking lot for visitors (with time restrictions).