Matsuo Taisha Shrine in Kyoto

Gardens by famous Showa Era landscape designer

Cathy Cawood Jan 18, 2014 - 1 min read

<p>Rock and water garden at Matsuo Shrine</p>

<p>Storehouse with thick plaster walls and small window</p>

<p>Covered verandahs for viewing the garden</p>

<p>Rocks, pebbles and water in Showa Era design</p>

<p>Koi in the Undulating Stream Garden designed by Mirei Shigemori</p>

<p>Some of the fish are friendly! Clap your hands and they will come!</p>

<p>Covered walkway between buildings</p>

<p>Magnificent rocks in the Garden of Ancient Times</p>

<p>Lush spring greenery over the canal</p>

<p>Garden of Ancient Times by Mirei Shigemori</p>

Matsuo Taisha Shrine is one of the oldest shrines in Kyoto. This water deity shrine is a popular place for sake and miso-makers to pray for success. Matsuo Shrine is also famous for three Showa Era gardens designed and built by famous landscape designer Mirei Shigemori and his son in 1973. There is also a sake museum, a treasure house, and if you happen to go on the right day, a market. The shrine is a short walk from Matsuo Station on the Hankyu Arashiyama Line. There is also a bus from Kyoto Station.

Cathy Cawood @cathy.cawood

I came to Japan in 2003 to teach English. I lived in Shiga prefecture for 1 year, and it still holds a special place in my heart. I lived in Kyoto for 9 years, then moved to Machida, Tokyo in 2014 after meeting my Japanese partner. I love to take photos, and my Japan in Pictures Facebook page ha...