At the beginning of June in Kyoto, the trees become greener and a refreshing breeze begins to blow, creating a pleasant season.
Among these, one plant to pay particular attention to is the “hangesho.”
The leaves turn white, creating a truly beautiful sight that can only be seen in early summer.
We are pleased to introduce the “Early Summer Garden Special Opening” held at Ryosokuin, a small temple within Kenninji Temple in Higashiyama, Kyoto.
“Early Summer Garden Special Opening” held at Ryosokuin, a subtemple of Kenninji Temple
Kenninji Temple is the oldest Zen temple in Kyoto, founded by Zen master Eisai at the beginning of the Kamakura period (1202).
There are several halls in the spacious grounds, and the atmosphere is quiet and calm.
You can also see a replica of Tawaraya Sotatsu’s “Wind God and Thunder God” here.
Within Kenninji Temple there are several small temples called “tatchu.”
A sub-temple is a building that serves as a residence for monks within a larger temple, and today each is an independent temple that is only open to the public on special occasions.
Ryosokuin is one of them, a historic sub-temple built during the Muromachi period.
Although it is normally closed to the public, you can enjoy special viewing of the garden in spring, early summer, and autumn.
The garden of Ryosokuin Temple features a Japanese garden called the “chisen kaiyuushiki teien” (stroll around a pond), which can be enjoyed while walking around the pond.
In mid-June, a plant called hangesho reaches its best viewing season.
Some of the leaves have turned white, creating a very refreshing scene.
Viewed in the early summer light, it may feel like a dream world.
Spending time in a quiet garden, calming your mind and enjoying nature at your leisure, will be a truly luxurious experience. Why not take a break from your busy everyday life for a while?
Before heading out, be sure to check the opening dates and times on the official website.
“Early Summer Garden Special Opening” held at Ryosokuin, a subtemple of Kenninji Temple
Location: 591 Komatsucho, Yamato-oji-dori Shijo-sagaru, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto city
Period: June 1st (Sun) to July 13th (Sun), 2025
Opening hours: 12:00-16:30 (last admission at 16:00)
Admission fee: 1,000 yen
Access: 5 minutes walk from Higashiyama Yasui city bus stop
Approximately 10 minutes walk from Gion-Shijo Station on the Keihan line
HP：https://ryosokuin.com
