Enjoy the Bankanen Garden Framed by the Temple Pillars, Then Rest with Matcha Tea and Sweets
About this spot
A small temple near Senin-in that has accumulated a long history as a monastic quarters of Sholin-in Temple, a center for Tendai chanting. The main attraction is the garden 'Bankanen' in the guest hall, where the space between the pillars frames the view like a picture frame—hence its alternative name, the 'picture-frame garden.' The bamboo grove and Ohara's mountain village scenery appear as if captured in a single painting. In the garden stands a magnificent five-needle pine tree said to be approximately 700 years old, designated as a Kyoto City natural monument. The admission fee includes matcha tea and Japanese sweets, which you enjoy while seated on a tatami mat overlooking the garden—a truly blissful moment. This is the perfect place for grandparents to rest after visiting Senin-in Temple, allowing all three generations to savor the quietly flowing rhythm of mountain village time.
Tips
A 3-minute walk from the gate of Senin-in Temple, located next to Shorin-in. The admission fee (900 yen for adults) includes matcha tea and sweets, so no additional orders are necessary. You'll be seated on tatami mats; if formal seating is difficult, you may relax your posture. Outside peak foliage season, you can typically sit comfortably without crowding.
Best time to visit
Plan for about 45 minutes. Late morning with bright natural light is when the picture-frame garden's greenery looks its best.
Access & map
〒601-1241 Kyoto Prefecture, Kyoto City, Sakyo Ward, Ohara Shorin-in-cho 187
Model course featuring this spot
Ohara: Senin-in Temple and the Flavors of the Countryside
Kyoto
Explore features & model courses
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