Entsuji, Kyoto

At the northern end of Kyoto City, on the first hill of note, Entsuji Temple (Rinzai Zen) garden has shakkei or a "borrowed scenery" element to it. The background, not part of the garden property but is considered part of the garden itself. Those who have visited Powerscourt House garden in Eire or Shugakuin Imperial Villa here in Kyoto, will be familiar with the concept. In this case, Mount Hiei serves as a backdrop to the stone and moss contemplation garden. It is considered to be one of the best examples of this type of garden in the world. You will also find the pleasant village of Hataeda located to the south of the temple.

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