Koke-dera, which means “Moss Temple” is one of the most aptly named temples in Kyoto. It’s a lush green paradise than can only be visited by application.
Kyoto’s relatively damp and humid climate is perfect for growing moss, and nowhere is this more evident than in the garden at Saiho-ji Temple, better known in Japanese as “Koke-dera,” which means “Moss Temple.” You have to apply in advance to apply (see below). Once you arrive (at the appointed time on your acceptance postcard), you’ll first have to copy a sutra (Buddhist text like a prayer) before being allowed to tour the garden. Don’t worry too much about this. It’s all pretty self-explanatory and you can just look at what the nearest Japanese person is doing. And, you don’t have to finish the whole sutra – just wait until the first Japanese people start standing up and slipping out into the garden and then join them. Here’s how to apply:
Send a postcard at least 7 working days before the date you wish to visit and include your name, number of visitors in your group, address in Japan (this can be a hotel or ryokan), occupation, age (you must be over 18) and desired date of visit (I suggest giving two or three possible choices). The address is:
Saiho\=-ji,
56 Kamigaya-cho\=,
Matsuo, Nishikyo\=-ku,
Kyoto-shi 615-8286,
JAPAN
Enclose a stamped, self-addressed postcard for a reply to your Japanese address. If you have time, you can buy an Ofuku-hagaki (send-and-return postcard set) at a Japanese post office.
Name in English:
Koke-dera (Saiho-ji) Temple
Name in Japanese:
苔寺（西芳寺）
English address:
56 Matsuo-Jingatani-cho, Nishikyo-ku
Japanese address:
西京区松尾神ケ谷町56
Opening hours: Appointed time
Admission: 3000
Non-smoking area: Yes
Nearest Transport:
2min walk from Kokedera Suzumushidera Bus Stop, Kyoto Bus 73 or 83 from Kyoto Station
Telephone: 391-3631
Website:
None
Near To Here:
Koke-dera Temple is located in Kyoto’s Arashiyama district. See our complete list of things to do in Kyoto’s Arashiyama district, including places to eat, nightlife and places to stay.
Where Is This Place Located?
See these places on our Kyoto Google map:- Open the Kyoto map
- You will see the list of places on the left hand side. (Click the 3-line icon in the top left corner if not). Scroll down or use the map search (the magnifying glass icon) to find the place you want.
- Click the name of the place in the list. Its location pin will be highlighted on the map.
- Map pins are color coded - BLUE: Hotels | VIOLET: Ryokan | PINK: Places to Eat | YELLOW: Things to See and Do
- If you're using the map on your phone, open the map and then search for the name of the place. The map will then zoom in on its location.
Kyoto Vacation Checklist
- For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Kyoto guide
- Check Kyoto accommodation availability on Booking.com and Agoda.com - often you can book with no upfront payment and free cancellation
- You can buy shinkansen (bullet train) tickets online from Klook - popular routes include Tokyo to Kyoto, Kyoto to Osaka and Kyoto to Tokyo
- Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Kyoto
- See my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
- You can buy an eSim to activate in Japan or buy a data-only SIM card online for collection when you arrive at Tokyo's Narita or Haneda Airports or Kansai International Airport. You can also rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
- Compare Japan flight prices and timings to find the best deals
- If you're making frequent train journeys during your visit, you might save money with Japan Rail Pass – see if it's worth it for you
- World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world
- Do you want help planning your trip? Chris Rowthorn and his team of Japan experts at Japan Travel Consulting can help
