[Shiga Prefecture] Shiga's famous spot of upside-down autumn leaves! Former Chikurin-in Temple

When it comes to upside-down autumn leaves in western Japan, Ruriko-in Temple in Rakuhoku, Kyoto comes to mind.

A place with beauty comparable to that of Ruriko-in Temple is Motosatobo Kyu-Chikurin-in Temple in Shiga Prefecture,
just 5km east of Ruriko-in Temple.

*Although it is only 5km away in a straight line from Ruriko-in Temple, it takes about an hour by car to get there because you have to go around Mt. Hiei.

Ruriko-in Temple is always extremely crowded, and the admission fee for advance online reservations is 2,000 yen,
but this temple is still a little-known spot, as it is relatively empty and the admission fee is only 330 yen! There is also a free parking lot with space for 20 cars.

Motosatobo is a residence for monks from Mt. Hiei when they went into seclusion, and is furnished with a teahouse and gazebo.

Each of the two-story teahouses has a small lacquered table, and you can enjoy the upside-down autumn leaves as shown in the first and second pictures.

Red Japanese umbrellas are also set up in the garden, creating a tasteful landscape.

The fourth picture is difficult to see due to the backlight, but it is a spot where you can enjoy the scenery with Mt. Hachioji, which is said to be the most beautiful garden of the former Chikurin-in.

When we visited in mid-November, the leaves were still about 70-80% autumn, but it was quite beautiful and many groups were visiting.

The best time to see them is around November 20th every year.

The moss garden is also wonderful and worth a visit.

#tripdomestictravel #shigaprefecture #autumnleaves #greatview #shrinesandtemples