Sanzen-in, Ohara
三千院
A Tendai monzeki temple in Ohara, a mountain village on the northern outskirts of Kyoto. The little Jizo statue with its smiling face, peeking out from the moss garden, is unforgettable.
Sanzen-in is one of the five monzeki temples of the Tendai school. Its Ojoin hall enshrines the Amida Triad, a National Treasure. Surrounding it are the Yusei-en and Juheki-en gardens, covered in moss. The “Child Jizo” peeking out of the moss is a popular photo spot. The hydrangea garden in early summer and the autumn foliage are both famous. Admission is about 700 yen, and hours are 9:00 to 17:00 (until 16:30 in winter). From Kyoto Station, take the Kyoto City Bus for about an hour to reach Ohara. Nearby temples, Hosen-in with its “Gakubuchi Garden” and Jakkō-in, can be visited on the same trip. Ohara's pickled shiso is a local specialty.
Opening hours
09:00–17:00 (opens 08:30 in Nov; until 16:30 Dec–Feb)
Nearby sights
- Enryaku-ji, Mt. Hiei
- Rurikoin
- Kurama-dera
- Kifune Shrine
- Ginkaku-ji
- Kamigamo Shrine
- Shimogamo Shrine
- Philosopher's Path