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Temple · Kyoto · Kansai

Shokoku-ji

相国寺

Fourteenth-century Zen temple in Kyoto founded by Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, featuring traditional gardens, rock gardens and renowned sub-temples.

Shokoku-ji Exterior
Shokoku-ji Exterior © Photo by 663highland, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Opening hours
Mon–Sun10:00–16:00
Holidays10:00–16:00
Admission
Standard
Adult¥800
Links
Official websiteEnglish · Japanese
Access
Shokokujimonzencho, Kyoto-Shi Kamigyo-Ku, Kyoto 〒 602-0898

Shokoku-ji is a Rinzai Zen Buddhist temple located in Kyoto, Japan. The temple was founded in the 14th century by Ashikaga Yoshimitsu and has a long history of being a center for Zen study. The temple is known for its beautiful gardens and its traditional Zen architecture. The main hall, the Hojo, contains a statue of the temple's founder, Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, as well as other important religious artifacts. The temple also features several sub-temples, each with their own unique gardens and architectural styles.

One of the most famous sub-temple is the Kyoyochi Pond, a small garden with a pond surrounded by various types of plants, and a waterfall that flows into the pond. The temple is also known for its rock garden, called the Karesansui, which is a traditional Zen garden with gravel and rocks arranged in patterns to represent mountains and rivers. Shokoku-ji is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of Kyoto's most important Zen temples. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, stroll through the beautiful gardens, and learn about the history and teachings of Zen Buddhism.

At Hey Japan!, we strive to keep the places listed on our website as current as possible. However, location owners or management may alter opening times or modify admission requirements without prior notice. Check official websites before visiting.

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