Chikurin-in Temple (旧竹林院)

Flow of the course

About this spot

One of the "satbo" (retirement villas) where monks from Enryaku-ji Temple on Mount Hiei spent their later years, this garden spanning approximately 3,300 square meters is designated as a National Scenic Treasure. From the sitting room of the main hall, you can leisurely enjoy a strolling garden featuring a waterfall and artificial hill, with Mount Hachionoji as a borrowed landscape. In recent years, this has become a famous destination for "reflection photography," where the garden mirrors beautifully on the polished desk top in the sitting room—especially breathtaking during new green and autumn foliage seasons. From the second-floor sitting room, you can enjoy a different perspective, gazing down at the garden. Combined with the charm of the temple town lined with distinctive Anao stonewall masonry, a quiet moment spent facing the garden becomes a luxurious experience befitting a sophisticated journey.

Tips

Approximately 10 minutes on foot from Sakamoto Hiei-san-guchi Station on the Keihan Line; just off the approach to Hiyoshi Taisha. Admission: ¥330 for adults. Since you'll remove your shoes to enter the sitting area, slip-on shoes are convenient. Reflection photography is popular and can involve waiting in line; early morning hours before noon are less crowded and ideal.

Best time to visit

Approximately 40 minutes. Early morning hours are less crowded with shorter waits for reflection photography.

Access & map

〒520-0113 Shiga Prefecture, Otsu City, Sakamoto 5-chome 2-13