Daitoku-ji Ohbai-in — Attraction in Kyoto

We were almost deterred by the price, at 800 yen per person to see only one of the buildings and zen gardens out of 3 or so, but I’m so glad we sucked it up and paid the money. You could literally feel the calming and ancient energy of this place, my skin was tingling with goose bumps and we felt so at peace wandering quietly around admiring the architecture and gorgeous gardens. I would have loved to have sat and meditated however it was a very brisk Autumn day in Kyoto and a little too cold to sit quietly for too long. We weren’t allowed to take any photos but you’re not even thinking about your phone during your wander through. I felt incredibly refreshed and recharged after our visit here and would definitely...

Japanese history viewpoint. I visit to see the gardens and trees. It’s very well thought out, and you can tell that it is well cared for because there is not a single weed growing in any of the moss! This is very unusual. During the autumn leaves, they don’t allow pictures past the entry gate (I believe this is in order to keep the flow moving, so people don’t hold others up by taking pictures for too long). I’ve been at times other than autumn, and it is always beautiful. The lady working at the entry gate was very friendly and happy. She showed us the view from her position overlooking one of the entry trees, and it was beautiful. I think the entry fee is reasonable given the large size...

What a refuge from the madding crowds! A sub temple of the Daitokuji, the layout of this small temple and its immaculate zen gardens especially in winter are almost surreal. Sitting silently in the stillness, one can almost feel you have been whisked away into a different plane of existence. The garden designs are revelatory as viewing them from different angles makes them look different. There is also a heated room with a long row of chairs where you can enjoy the scenery if the weather is too cold. I must go back...