光明院
Kōmyō-in Temple
A tranquil subtemple of Tofuku-ji, Kōmyō-in is a study in stillness—where a single raked stone garden captures the essence of Zen.
Attractions
Temple, Zen Garden, Hidden Gem
MK Guide Recommends
Often missed by tourists rushing to Tofuku-ji, Kōmyō-in offers a quiet counterbalance just steps away. Founded in 1391 and belonging to the Rinzai Zen school, this understated subtemple centers on a stunning karesansui (dry landscape) garden designed by modern master Shigemori Mirei. Known as Hashin-no-niwa (Garden of the Spiritual Heart), the space features meticulously placed stones, white gravel, and a minimalist composition that shifts in feeling with the light. Visitors can sit on the veranda and take in the scene—framed like a living scroll—while cicadas buzz or maple leaves fall. For lovers of Zen aesthetics, Komyō-in is a sanctuary of silence, line, and light.
Facilities & Services
Dry landscape Zen garden by Shigemori Mirei
Simple tatami hall with garden views
Minimal signage; photography allowed
Quiet, contemplative environment
Short walk from Tofuku-ji Station
Kanchi-in Temple
A hidden scholarly sanctuary within Tō-ji’s shadow—Kanchi-in preserves the intellectual heart of Shingon Buddhism and Kyoto’s medieval past.
Tōfuku-ji Temple
A vast Rinzai Zen temple famed for its fiery autumn canopy and wooden bridge views—Tōfuku-ji is Kyoto’s seasonal pilgrimage site.
Kōmyō-in Temple
A tranquil subtemple of Tofuku-ji, Kōmyō-in is a study in stillness—where a single raked stone garden captures the essence of Zen.
Genkō-an
A Rinzai Zen temple known for its “Window of Enlightenment” and “Window of Delusion”—Genkō-an turns architecture into meditation.
Hōrin-ji
A quiet hillside temple above the Katsura River—Hōrin-ji offers sweeping views, esoteric depth, and a contemplative escape from the crowds below.