This beautifully filmed video showcases 20 of the most distinguished and tranquil Japanese gardens throughout Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital and the heartland of its historic landscaping traditions. The selection includes renowned temples and less-visited sites, providing a diverse look at the city’s garden culture. From the lush moss gardens of Ruriko-in to the renowned zen landscapes of Ryogen-in and the classical temple settings of Shinnyo-do and Sanbo-in, the film guides viewers on an evocative journey through Kyoto’s most celebrated outdoor spaces.

Each segment highlights a different garden, introducing spiritual sites such as Hosen-in—a temple famed for its framed garden views and quiet atmosphere—and historic landmarks like Jakko-in and Kochidani Amida-ji nestled in serene forested hills. Notable stops include the poetic retreat of Shisen-do, the atmospheric Jojakko-ji with its seasonal foliage, and the peaceful Honen-in off the famed Philosopher’s Path. The gardens, many attached to Buddhist temples of various sects, exemplify a range of landscape styles including karesansui (dry landscape), pond, and moss gardens, reflecting the centuries-old relationship between nature and Japanese spirituality.

A visit to these gardens offers more than scenic beauty; it’s a chance to experience concepts such as ‘wabi-sabi’ (appreciation for imperfect, transient beauty) and Zen aesthetics firsthand. Kyoto’s temples like Enko-ji, Taizo-in, Funda-in, Zuiho-in, and Seirai-in present environments perfect for contemplation, their careful arrangements of rocks, moss, water, and seasonal plants inviting visitors to slow down and reflect. The video is a virtual guide for travelers planning garden visits and a cultural deep-dive for those curious about Kyoto’s unique horticultural legacy.

Many of these gardens are set among Kyoto’s notable temple districts, such as Sakyo Ward, Higashiyama, and Arashiyama, offering easy connections to larger tourist routes or hidden escapes for a quiet afternoon. From world-famous landscapes to hidden treasures known mainly to locals, this roundup is essential viewing for anyone seeking the authentic essence of Kyoto’s garden artistry.