Ryōan-ji is a beautiful Buddhist temple known for its famous rock garden, which is a simple arrangement of fifteen rocks set in a bed of white gravel. What makes this garden unique is its minimalist design and the abstract composition of the rocks. The arrangement is such that only 14 rocks can be seen from any vantage point at a time. According to traditional interpretations, the 15th rock is believed to be hidden from view, and it is said that one must attain enlightenment or true understanding to be able to see it.

As you can see on the green map (in the attached photo), the whole experience consists of a walking route around the large pond (with a small shrine in the middle) and visiting one of the Temple's buildings with a view of the rock garden, which at the time of my visit (August 2023) also had exhibits of beautiful "Dragon in Cloud" sliding screens.

This place gets especially beautiful during the momiji season!

The last time I arrived there at 8:10 am, and there were already some people, which means that by midday it gets super crowded.