Mountains & Major Chill Energy

#springitinerary Is one of those spots in Arashiyama that just instantly puts you in a better mood. It’s a centuries-old Zen temple (since 1339!) but honestly, you don’t need to know the history to feel how peaceful it is. You walk in and calm. The main garden? Total show-stealer. There’s this big reflective pond, perfectly placed rocks, and the mountains in the background looking like a painting. It was designed by a Zen monk, and yeah, it shows. It’s gorgeous in every season, cherry blossoms in spring, fiery leaves in fall, and soft greens in between. The temple itself has burned down and been rebuilt a bunch of times, but it still holds that classic Kyoto vibe. It’s quiet, beautiful, and super grounding. It’s right next to the bamboo grove, so you can wander straight there after soaking in all the serenity.