The Kannon-do and Kaisan-do halls were designated as National Treasures in 1952.
The temple complex was largely destroyed by fire in 2003, with the Kannon-do being painstakingly reconstructed in 2008.
Muso Soseki, the founder, was a renowned garden designer who created several iconic landscapes in Kyoto.
The pond garden features a 'Garyu-kyo' (Crouching Dragon Bridge) that connects to the shore.
The temple belongs to the Nanzen-ji branch of the Rinzai school of Zen Buddhism.
Kokeizan Eihoji Temple is a historic Zen Buddhist complex established in 1313 by the monk Muso Soseki. It is situated at the foot of Kokeizan mountain and overlooks a prominent pond garden designed in the style of the Kamakura period. The temple grounds house two National Treasures of Japan: the Kannon-do hall and the Kaisan-do hall. These structures are notable for their architectural fusion of Zen and traditional Japanese styles. The temple is surrounded by a forest that turns vibrant red during the autumn foliage season. Visitors can view a large gingko tree that is several hundred years old. The site serves as an active place of religious training under the Rinzai sect.
The lakeside view looking toward the Kannon-do hall, particularly with the reflection on the water.
Wear comfortable, slip-on shoes as you will frequently take them off to enter various wooden halls.
Follow the clearly marked paths, as many of the surrounding wooded areas are restricted to maintain the Zen atmosphere.
Do not attempt to enter private living quarters of the monks or restricted meditation halls marked with signage.
Dress modestly; remove footwear before stepping onto wooden floorboards; maintain silence as monks conduct active practice here.
