By VIRTUAL KYOTO
In this beautifully filmed 4K walking tour, the VIRTUAL KYOTO channel takes viewers on a serene afternoon stroll through the Tenryu-ji Temple Garden in Kyoto’s famous Arashiyama district. Recorded on Thursday, March 27, 2025, the video captures the garden just after a rainfall, with the air fresh and the sights shimmering against the soft light of early spring.
Starting at the traditional approach to Tenryu-ji (天龍寺参道), the walk leads through the entrance to the majestic Sogenchi Garden (曹源池庭園), one of the oldest surviving examples of a landscape garden from the Muromachi Period. The iconic pond and carefully arranged rocks and plantings create a peaceful setting that's accentuated by the gentle rainfall.
One of the highlights is the promenade around the Tahoto Pagoda (多宝塔) area, where early-blooming weeping cherry blossoms (しだれ桜) add a delicate splash of pink to the landscape. The visit continues into Hyakkaen (百花苑), a floral garden designed to display a wide variety of seasonal plants and blooms, making it a favorite among nature lovers.
The vlog concludes with another look at the Sogenchi Garden, reflecting the tranquil blend of Zen design and seasonal beauty that Tenryu-ji is famous for. Arashiyama, already a top destination for both local and international tourists, is especially popular during cherry blossom season, and this video vividly illustrates why.
Tenryu-ji is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Kyoto's most historically significant temples, originally founded in 1339. The surrounding Arashiyama area is renowned for its bamboo grove, river boat rides, and scenic vistas, providing a perfect blend of cultural and natural attractions.
Whether you're a fan of Japanese temples, cherry blossoms, or peaceful walks through traditional gardens, this soothing video is sure to transport you to the heart of Kyoto's springtime charm.