Daitoku-Ji, Kyoto

A large walled complex of Zen temples, and sub-temples originating in the fourteenth century, which have undergone extensive restoration and rebuilding over time. Daitokuji is famed for the aesthetic beauty of its gardens and four of them are open to the pubic. Daisen-in contains two contemplative rock gardens. Ryogen-in holds a miniature Zen garden, supposedly the smallest in Japan. Kotoin is noted for its moss garden and Zuihoin for its natural simplicity. Two excellent vegetarian restaurants are located within the compound, as well as sub-temples offering meditation sessions.

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