Hosen-in is a Buddhist temple in Ohara, Kyoto, known for a garden of bamboo, moss and a 700-year-old five-needle pine. From the reception hall, the garden is framed by the temple’s beams, with mountain views beyond. The 900-yen entrance fee includes matcha and a Japanese sweet, served as you sit on tatami mats. The temple’s calm setting and its blood-stained ceiling, linked to the tragedy at Fushimi Castle, add both natural beauty and history to a visit.
The garden and its old pine
Hosen-in is in Ohara, in Kyoto, and is known for its garden of bamboo, moss and a five-needle pine said to be 700 years old. Supports hold up the pine’s branches. From the reception hall, the garden sits within the frame of the temple’s beams, with mountain views beyond.
The garden’s quiet relationship with nature is part of Hosen-in’s appeal. Its beauty is also associated with Murasaki Shikibu’s classic novel, The Tale of Genji.
Tea and a piece of temple history
Admission costs 900 yen and includes matcha and a Japanese sweet. You can enjoy them seated on tatami mats while looking out at the garden.
Hosen-in also has a blood-stained ceiling, known as a chi-tenjo, connected to the tragedy at Fushimi Castle. Ask staff about the story if you would like more context during your visit. Spring and autumn light-up events bring another view of the garden.
FAQ
How much is admission to Hosen-in?
Admission is 900 yen. Matcha and a Japanese sweet are included.
What is Hosen-in known for?
The temple is known for its bamboo and moss garden and a five-needle pine said to be 700 years old.
When does Hosen-in hold garden light-up events?
Light-up events take place in spring and autumn.
