Daitokuji Temple special spring opening
One of the largest Zen temple complexes in northern Kyoto, Daitokuji once flourished as a cultural powerhouse during the Momoyama period, when tea master Sen no Rikyu and leading painters of the Kano school were active here. Its sprawling grounds are dotted with sub-temples featuring refined architecture and pristine dry landscape gardens. However, many of these sub-temples are usually closed to the public, opening only briefly in spring, making this short window the best, and often only, chance to explore these lesser-known gems.
The Obai-in sub-temple, closely linked to Sengoku-period warlords, opens from March 21 to May 17 (10am–3.45pm; ¥1,000). You’ll get to stroll through the celebrated Chokuchutei dry landscape garden and step inside the Sakumuken Tea Room. Also not to be missed are the main hall’s sliding-door paintings by Ungo Togan, one of the four great masters of the Momoyama period.
Korin-in, meanwhile, welcomes visitors from March 14 to June 14 (closed March 20 and May 28), from 10am to 4.30pm (¥800). Highlights include the elegant Hojo Garden, a symbolic recreation of the mythical Mount Horai, featuring raked white gravel and carefully placed stone arrangements. This gorgeous Zen garden feels contemplative and is definitely worth taking your time.