< Over View >
Experience Zen meditation and a Sencha tea ceremony. Meditating first lets you embrace the serenity of tea culture, immersing in its beauty and depth—something rarely found in a typical setting.
The Story Behind
Hi, this is Denei. We would like to share the story behind our tour. Let’s check each topics.
About Jojuji Temple
Established in the year 810, Joju-ji is a historic temple with a legacy spanning over 1,200 years.
Today, it serves as a sanctuary for Obaku Zen, one of the three main Zen sects in Japan. The temple preserves a unique atmosphere, characterized by its distinct architectural style that blends traditional Japanese design with historic continental influences.
The temple grounds are beautifully adorned with seasonal flowers throughout the year. The scenery is particularly breathtaking in autumn, when the approach to the temple transforms into a vivid “tunnel of maple leaves,” painting the stone steps in a stunning shade of crimson.
The Garden and Bamboo forest
The temple grounds bloom with seasonal flowers, but autumn is truly exceptional, as vibrant maple leaves carpet the moss-covered stone steps.
Beyond the foliage, you can find rare bamboo species, including Kikko-chiku (Tortoise-shell bamboo) with its unique patterned nodes and Shiho-chiku (Square bamboo). These rare natural wonders, nestled within the historic setting, offer a serene and distinctive landscape found nowhere else.
Architectural Heritage & Samurai Intrigue
The Main Hall, a designated Tangible Cultural Property of Kyoto, was rebuilt in 1697 and features the unique architectural style of the Obaku Zen sect.
The Hojo is an authentic remnant of an Edo-period samurai residence. It contains fascinating defensive features, such as the “Musha-kakushi” (warrior hiding spots) and a secret escape hatch hidden within the alcove wall, offering a rare glimpse into the stealth and ingenuity of the feudal era.
Denei’s tours are filled with countless details and hidden stories that we simply cannot capture in words. We invite you to come and experience them for yourself. We look forward to welcoming you soon!
