This video from Harukawa Film Works beautifully captures the essence of Kyoto’s most serene moss gardens, focusing on the silent elegance and restorative tranquility they offer. The journey begins at Saiho-ji Temple (西芳寺), also known as Koke-dera, renowned for its breathtaking carpet of over 120 varieties of moss. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Saiho-ji is cherished for its contemplative stroll gardens and the ancient temple’s deep-rooted history in Zen Buddhism.

The exploration continues with a visit to Sanzen-in Temple (三千院) in Ohara, nestled in the northern mountains of Kyoto. Sanzen-in’s tranquil temple grounds are framed by lush moss and stately trees, offering visitors a peaceful retreat away from the busier city areas. The temple’s famous moss garden, adorned with stone O-Jizo statues, provides a quintessential Japanese contemplative experience.

The final destination in the video is Gio-ji Temple (祇王寺), a small yet enchanting temple in the Arashiyama district. Gio-ji is revered for its single-room main hall and a moss garden shaded by maple trees, making it especially picturesque in spring and autumn. The temple’s legends of love and devotion add a gentle narrative to its serene beauty.

Each segment of this video is a visual meditation, presenting Kyoto’s garden culture where moss embodies the Japanese aesthetic of wabi-sabi—finding beauty in simplicity and impermanence. Whether you’re planning a trip to Kyoto or seeking a virtual moment of calm, this video is an invitation to experience the city’s most peaceful corners.