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.
Saiho-ji “Koke-dera” Moss Temple image © Damien Douxchamps
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
Where Is This Place Located?
See these places on our Kyoto Google map:- Open the Kyoto map
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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
- A prepaid Welcome Suica card makes travelling around Kyoto easy – here's how
- 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