Saihoji Kokedera is a World Heritage Site founded 1300 years ago. It is truly a gem.

We started in the main temple where we were asked to sit before entering the garden. We were given an English translation sutra and a calligraphy pen to trace the sutra’s kanji on a piece of rice paper imprinted with the sutra. This meditation practice required focus and was mentally calming. This prepares one for better enjoying the serenity of the moss garden. No talking is encouraged as you walk through the entire garden. It was peaceful and magical.

After visiting Saihoji we were drawn to a nearby bamboo grove surrounding another temple, Jizo-in.