Toko-ji in Kofu

Beautiful dry garden with magnificent standing rocks

Cathy Cawood Sep 11, 2014 - 1 min read

<p>The sand resembles the ocean lapping at the shore</p>

<p>Rock sentinels in the kare-san-sui garden</p>

<p>Paving stones set in white sand resemble a river with rocks</p>

<p>Traditionally styled open sided room - a rest area</p>

<p>Arrangement with huge rock and small statues</p>

<p>Wooden building with gracefully shaped roof</p>

<p>Blue bell-flowers beside the path</p>

<p>Lotuses in pots in front of the main hall</p>

<p>Toko-ji's pond is shaped like the ideogram for 'dragon'</p>

<p>The bell tower stands beside a gate</p>

I almost missed seeing this Kamakura Era temple. Setting out to explore Kofu by electric bicycle, I started the day off with Takeda Shrine, and went to about ten different temples and shrines including fabulous Kai-Zenkoji. I was riding along a hill road looking down over vineyards when I spied a temple roof. My first thought was "I've seen enough temples today", but the I decided to have a quick look, and I'm glad I did! There is a beautiful kare-san-sui garden with some really great rocks. There is also a pond, and a pleasant rest area styled like a traditional Japanese room complete with hanging scroll and flower arrangement.

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...