Appeasing an Imperial Ghost

Ashikaga Takauji turned an imperial villa into a Zen temple. He hoped to calm the restless spirit of Emperor Go-Daigo, his former rival.

The Borrowed Scenery Garden

Sit on the Ōhōjō verandah and admire the Sōgenchi Garden. It is one of the few original medieval designs remaining in Kyoto.

Carp, Dragon, and Stone

Look at the pond's sharp-edged rocks. Soseki designed them to look like carp swimming up a cascade to become powerful dragons.

Exit Through the Bamboo

The North Gate leads directly into the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Keep walking quickly to find a spot that is not crowded.