I love accidental discoveries, and I discovered Koso-ji while I was on a cycling excursion to another temple. At first I was greatly struck by the unusual guardian statues, but as soon as I passed through the gate, the enchantment of this pretty temple garden gripped me. Although it is not large it has been skillfully designed to include a number of different areas. Every time I turned a corner there was a new surprise. I especially enjoyed watching the small but deep koi pond, which bubbled with a strong underwater 'fountain'. Large koi swirled around the edges and made powerful dashes through the current.
- 1 min read
Kozo-ji
Exceptional garden at an off-the-beaten-track temple
![A long pine lateral has been trained across the front of the temple. I was told this means "welcome."](https://a1.cdn.japantravel.com/photo/13937-81525/320x240!/tokyo-kozo-ji-81525.jpg "A long pine lateral has been trained across the front of the temple. I was told this means "welcome."")
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It wasn't marked as a temple on my map, Peter, and I only found it because I was biking past.
Peter Sidell
10 years ago
So I checked on the map to see where it is, and was surprised to find it's quite near where I work! I should explore my own area more...
It really is a lovely garden, James. I hope you get a chance to visit it.
James Forest
10 years ago
It looks so beautiful there!
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