Ryōan-ji is a Zen temple located in northwest Kyoto, Japan. It belongs to the Myōshin-ji school of the
Rinzai branch of Zen Buddhism. The Ryōan-ji garden is considered one of the finest surviving examples of
kare-sansui, a refined type of Japanese Zen temple garden design generally featuring distinctive larger
rock formations arranged amidst a sweep of smooth pebbles raked into linear patterns that facilitate
meditation. The temple and its gardens are listed as one of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto, and
as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Entering the park, I immediately spotted a monkey scrambling in the tall grass just meters away. I’d not
seen this animal anywhere but a zoo. At first, being so close was a bit nerve-wracking, but it was also
refreshing to see these creatures free from a glass cage. The active ones would swing from tree branches
and run up the mountainside. The hike itself is fairly easy and takes about 30 minutes.
Following the path, at the top is a view of the city, mountains, and river, with a bright blue sky
draped over it all on a sunny day. After fawning over the view (Japan really hypes up -- and does not
disappoint -- on that “view”), there is a chance to feed the monkeys.
They're eager to gobble up apple chunks tourists can buy and offer through the safety of an enclosed
area. They grab the food right out of your hand, as they hang on the outside of the caged-in window
area.
A visit will take about 1-2 hours, and visitors can enter from 9 am–4:30 pm. /5 pm. from 15th March to
30 September. During the Autumn and Winter periods, the park is open from 9 am–4 pm, while the
Mountaintop is open from 9 am–4:30 pm
Address: 13 Ryoanji Goryonoshitacho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8001
Official Site: www.ryoanji.jp
