Explore the Hidden Moss Temple in Kyoto with a new ¥1,000 pass

Moss is so funny! JR Tokai or Central Japan Railway Company has launched a limited-time “Kyoto Moss Tour Passport” that will give visitors discounts to six temples in the city’s most glorious Moss Surnound Semples. The proposal is part of the company’s seasonal “Souda Kyoto, Ikou” (let’s go to Kyoto!) campaign. Essentially, it’s a two-day pass that gives you access to six serene moss spaces for just ¥1,000, which is less than half the combined entrance fee.

Gioji Temple

Six stops, a peaceful route

Midsummer is usually the peak season for Kyoto’s moss gardens; this time the warm, humid climate brings their full texture and vitality. Early morning or afternoon visits are especially ideal, not only for better brightness and cooler temperatures, but also for a quieter, more reflective atmosphere.

Each of the six participating temples provides a unique view of Kyoto’s natural charm. Two are located in Arashiyama: Gioji TempleLocated in the Sagano area, it is a compact temple, shrouded in maple trees and of course thick moss – it is perfect for a peaceful rest after strolling through the nearby bamboo forest. Jojkkoji Temple (Official website in Japanese only) offers views, as well as stone steps and gardens that seem to be still in the summer heat.

Temple of Sanzen

In the rural areas of Ohara, three temples in the northeast – Sanzin-in,,,,, Shorin-in (Japan only) and Enkoji Temple – Create a rural temple trail that feels far from the hustle and bustle of central Kyoto. Sanzen-In stands out for his smiling Jizo statue, while Shorinin is known for the mossy lawns surrounding its pagoda.

The Enkoji Temple is famous for its strolling pond gardens. It is best to view the carefully designed landscape from the lobby where the garden looks like a “live picture” or a “frame scene”, which is the composition of moss, trees and stones that changes with the subtle seasons.

tofukuji Temple

last but not least, I tofuchuLocated in southeast Kyoto, it is famous for its impressive Zen architecture and meticulously maintained moss gardens. One of its outstanding features is the Hojo (Main Garden) designed by Mirei Shigemori in the 1930s, where Moss played a central role – especially in the Northern Garden where square spots of moss alternated with stones in a striking pattern of chessboards.

How to get a Moss Journey Passport

Kyoto Moss Tour passport can be purchased at JR Tokai Tours on the second floor of Kyoto Station. Can also be passed Official JR Tokai websitebut please note that the website is only in Japanese. The pass is valid for two consecutive days and can be used for each of the six participating temples.

When you purchase your passport, you will receive a folding guide in Japanese with information about each temple, including access details and different types of moss. Although the manual is currently only in Japanese, it is easy to browse with maps, pictures and clear temple names. If you plan to visit Kyoto during the summer, this pass is one of the easiest ways to explore the quieter, greener aspects of the city.

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