A friend translated the Monk’s story following our contemplation in the exquisite garden. She explained that the scene follows a term in Japanese that translates to “borrowed landscape”. As this is one of the few temples and gardens that’s view has remained unobstructed by urban sprawl or building. The borrowed landscape of the mountain landscape behind, seamlessly blends in to the garden and everything that lies between creating a harmonious place for quiet reflection and a reminder of the beautiful world we live in.
North part of Kyoto and not so easy to visit by public transport
But we can realize how nice this temple and why this temple is here after sit down and see garden with Hiei-Zan mountain view
Mindblowing! I cannot express how I miss this place and its serenity. My favorite spot in Japan and perhaps in the world. You can visit Tadao Ando's open exhibition (see Garden of Fine Arts) near the subway in the same area in order to experience the continuity between traditional borrowed scenery and modern Japanese architecture.
It is a sublime moment to contemplate in front of the garden that frames Mount Hiei in its background. It's one of the best example of 'shakkei' (borrowed scenery) I ever know. It's a bit out of the centre but definitely worth a visit.
The most popular time to visit Entsuji Temple is during autumn, particularly from mid to late November, when the maple trees display vibrant red and orange foliage that enhances the borrowed scenery garden. Late spring, around May, is also beautiful when the azalea bushes bloom. For the most peaceful experience with fewer crowds, visit early in the morning when the temple opens, regardless of season.
Take Kyoto City Bus 26 from Kyoto Station toward the northwest. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes to the Entsuji-michi bus stop. From there, it's a short walk to the temple entrance. The same bus route can be boarded from downtown areas like Kawaramachi. Due to the temple's location on the western outskirts of Kyoto, allow extra travel time compared to more centrally located attractions.
Yes, photography is permitted in most areas of Entsuji Temple, including the famous garden views from the main hall. The round windows and borrowed scenery garden are particularly popular subjects for photographers. However, visitors are requested to maintain a quiet and respectful atmosphere, as Entsuji remains an active religious site. Flash photography may be restricted in certain areas.
Entsuji Temple requires about 30 minutes of travel time from central Kyoto each way, plus time for the visit itself. If you have limited time and want to see major attractions like Kinkakuji or Fushimi Inari, you might prioritize those sites. However, if you're interested in authentic Zen gardens, photography, or seeking a quieter temple experience away from heavy tourist crowds, the journey is worthwhile despite the travel time required.
Entsuji Temple is famous for its shakkei or borrowed scenery technique, which incorporates the distant Mount Hiei into the garden design. The carefully positioned viewing angles from the main hall and the round windows create frames that blend the temple's immediate landscape with the mountain backdrop, making nature appear as an intentional part of the garden composition. This masterful integration of distant scenery is one of Kyoto's finest examples of borrowed scenery garden design.
