Ryōan-ji

Jonathan Lee a week ago

This might have been the best part of our visit to Kyoto in Japan! Ryoan-ji is a Zen Buddhist temple from the Muromachi period. The nature is absolutely beautiful and so peaceful. It is wonderful to sit and ponder at the simplistic rock garden. I truly enjoyed wandering around the grounds of Ryoan-ji.

Raphael Gorjian 4 weeks ago

This was one of my favorite temples we visited. It was very serene. The scenery was gorgeous. The different gardens beautiful to see and truly a nice experience. I would recommend others to visit.

Ross Daniels a month ago

Just absolutely amazing place the gardens are exquisite and Temple consists of 15 carefully arranged rocks placed on a bed of white gravel. The rocks are arranged in such a way that, from any angle, only 14 of the rocks are visible at a time. This design is meant to symbolize the transience of life and the impermanence of all things.

Kelly K 3 months ago

One of the last spots in Kyoto with autumn leaves in early December. The grounds themself were pretty but the zen garden was small. Lots of pretty trees around the lake area. Overall a peaceful and calm place. Bus 52 took us there but it’s also one of the only busses to take you back. Came about 20+ min between each so watch the time when you are trying to leave. Cannot bring drinks inside.

T Tangkoskul 3 months ago

Possibly the most iconic rock garden in Japan. There are 15 rocks in the garden, but no matter which angle you look at, you will only see 13-14 rocks. The earthen wall is not level but rather slope down toward the corner to give an illusion that the garden looks bigger than it's actually is. The round stone basin (looks like a coin) has a hidden meaning "I just know enough" which symbolises Zen Buddhism teaching to be content with what you have. Recommended you to go as early as possible to avoid the crowds and get full experience of this temple.