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    • Ryoan-ji rock garden
      Ryoan-ji rock garden
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    Ryoan-ji rock garden

    The enduring image of a raked gravel rock garden reflects the spirit of Zen Buddhism.

    One of Japan's most iconic images is a large rock island adrift in a sea of meticulously raked gravel. Karesansui rock gardens date back to the Muromachi Period (1336-1573) as an aid to meditation at Zen temples. The gardens themselves are meant to hint the true essence of nature. 

    While there are many Zen dry-landscape gardens across Japan, the most famous is at Kyoto's Ryoan-ji temple in the north-west corner of the city. Looking across Ryoan-ji's small rectangle of 15 rocks amid white pebbles, it's left to the visitor to ponder the meaning of it all.

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    For more information email us: [email protected] or call: + 44 117 244 3380

    Important notice: We are pleased to be able to offer so many amazing experiences in Japan. However, we are sorry that we can only include these as a part of a full Japan holiday package which includes your accommodation and transport alongside the experiences presented in this section of the web site.
     

    Ryoan-ji rock garden

    located in Kyoto

    Read more >

    Interested in this Experience? It is included in this tour:

    • The perfect introduction to the fascinating culture of Japan. Travelling in springtime means you should have a chance to catch the beautiful Cherry blossom for which Japan is famous. This tour includes day trips to Hiroshima, Miyajima Island and Himeji Castle.

      Seven Night Taster

      The perfect introduction to the fascinating culture of Japan. Travelling in springtime means you should have a chance to catch the beautiful Cherry blossom for which Japan is famous. This tour includes day trips to Hiroshima, Miyajima Island and Himeji Castle.

      Read more >

      The perfect introduction to the fascinating culture of Japan. Travelling in springtime means you should have a chance to catch the beautiful Cherry blossom for which Japan is famous. This tour includes day trips to Hiroshima, Miyajima Island and Himeji Castle.

    Other Gardens experiences

    View more >
    • Korakuen

      Korakuen

      Now restored to its Edo Period glory, Okayama's Korakuen garden is home to unique features including wide lawns, a crane aviary and tea fields.

      Read more >

    • Isamu Noguchi Garden Museum

      Isamu Noguchi Garden Museum

      Visit the home of eminent landscape gardener Isamu Noguchi

      Read more >

    • Saiho-ji moss garden

      Saiho-ji moss garden

      Magical temple gardens with 120 varieties of moss.

      Read more >

  • Kenrokuen

    Kenrokuen

    "The garden of six sublimities": spaciousness, seclusion, artificiality, antiquity, abundant water & broad views make the perfect garden in Kanazawa.

    Read more >

  • Nagasaki's Glover Garden

    Nagasaki's Glover Garden

    Meiji Period architecture, lovely European gardens and fantastic views across Nagasaki.

    Read more >

  • Bonsai

    Bonsai

    Visit Japan's premiere bonsai district and take a two hour class with a local master.

    Read more >

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    Order a brochure or enquire today

    If you'd like any help or want to know more about Japan, feel free to either enquire today, give our Japan travel experts a call, or why not get one of our beautiful Japan brochures.

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