Sogen pond (Photo: Carrie Jacobs )

Tenryu-ji Temple, Kyoto

An auspicious beginning to spring

Carrie Jacobs   - 1 min read

Tenryu-ji temple is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a leading Rinzai Zen Buddhist temple. During spring, the blossoms are intoxicating as is the delight of the crowds. Cherry blossoms (Sakura) were plentiful, along with crabapple, tulip trees and much more.

Visit during lunch and enjoy the set vegetarian menu served on site in midst of the gardens. Set meals starts at 3,000 yen. Dishes are made of seasonal ingredients and include tofu (in various forms; a soft version made of black sesame was particularly delicious), wheat gluten, vegetables, sweet rice cakes (mochi) and tea.

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Find out more about Tenryu-ji.

Carrie Jacobs

Carrie Jacobs @carriel.n.jacobs

Hailing from Portland Oregon, I am a recent transplant to Zama, Japan here in Kanagawa. Having worked for a high school international exchange organization for close to 8 years, I'm inspired by all things intercultural and love to travel! When in a new country I am like a sponge, absorbing as muc...