“Shakkei” or borrowed scenery. Ever heard of it? Entsu-ji Temple is a prime example of this Japanese garden design.
Entsu-ji Temple is located north of Kyoto. It offers a unique and serene experience away from the crowded tourist spots. This Zen Buddhist monastery has a rich history and a stunning garden. It incorporates the majestic Mount Hiei-zan into its design.
Emperor Go-Mizunoo founded it in 1678. The site was once his villa. He sought a peaceful place to practice Zen Buddhism.
The garden is a highlight of Entsu-ji. Forty rocks are surrounded by moss and maple trees. Tall cedar trees and camellias add to the beauty. Mount Hiei-zan is visible in the background. It appears to be a natural extension of the garden.
The garden’s design is attributed to either Emperor Go-Mizunoo or Kobori Enshu. After World War II, the garden was restored. It had fallen into disrepair. The garden is now a National Place of Scenic Beauty. Autumn is an especially beautiful time to visit Entsu-ji. The maple leaves turn vibrant shades of red.
Enkoinbunei converted the villa into a temple. She was a former attendant of the Emperor’s mother. The tenth head priest of the Myoshinji School of Rinzai Zen Buddhism became the first head priest of Entsu-ji Temple.
Entsu-ji provides a tranquil escape. It is a 25-minute walk from the nearest station. You will find it in a typical residential area of Kyoto.
Alex Kerr called the borrowed landscape at Entsu-ji one of Kyoto’s jewels. He also noted its potential loss due to nearby construction. Photography inside the buildings is limited. Taking pictures of the grounds from inside is allowed.
When you visit Entsu-ji notice the careful placement of rocks. These rocks were brought from the sea during the Edo period. Only their tops are visible.
Entsu-ji is open from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm between April and November. From December to March, it closes earlier at 4:00 pm. Admission is 500 yen for adults.
To get to Entsu-ji from Kyoto Station, take bus 45. Get off at Entsuji Michi stop. From there, it is a ten-minute walk. You can also take the Eizan Railways to Seika Daigakumae Station. Alternatively, take the Karasuma subway line to Kitayama Station. Both are a 25-minute walk from Entsu-ji.
Entsu-ji is near Kamigamo Shrine and Takaragaike Lake. This makes it a great addition to a day of exploring Kyoto.