Koshoji Temple is a classic Zen temple located on the northern bank of the Uji River. It stands out for its absolutely beautiful garden with a five-storied stone pagoda.

This temple is by far one of my favorites in the whole Kyoto Prefecture, and here is the reason why - I get the most authentic feeling from this temple because you will not find even one "NO Photo" sign in there. The whole temple is a maze of narrow corridors connecting different rooms where monks reside and meditate. You may even take a glimpse of its Kitchen which was pretty cool for some reason. I guess it's all because it does not have lots of tourists coming by so that they do not disrupt their way of living in there, and in my opinion, it is as spectacular as any other major temple in Kyoto.

You need to get a ticket from a vending machine and once you enter the temple grounds, turn right and follow the route to the Reception desk where you can hand your ticket, buy some nice souvenirs, and get a Goshuin.

In the fall, the nearby maple trees make a visit to Kōshō-ji especially spectacular.