Walking Course around the Temple 報国寺をめぐる散策コース

To the left of the path to the main hall is the bell tower with its traditional thatched roof. Behind it is a large gingko tree that shades the bell tower. It is particularly beautiful in autumn when its leaves turn bright yellow.

A small building to the left of the main hall is the ticket office for the bamboo grove and the temple teahouse. Purchase tickets here and proceed along the walkway to the back of the hall. Turn right and walk toward the small Zen garden with its pond and brilliant white stones. Then go up the steps and follow the path around to the right. When the path splits, continue right and look toward the hillside covered in vines. The three caves are where the temple’s yagura tombs are located.

Turn and follow the branching path toward the bamboo grove, passing the moss-covered stone pagoda. Once inside the grove, follow the stone path to the teahouse and perhaps stop for refreshment.

Exit the teahouse and take the right-hand path through the bamboo grove. The steps lead to the path back to the front of the main hall. Outside, take the left path, passing beside the large cherry blossom tree. A small stone staircase leads back toward the moss garden and main gate. At the bottom of the stairs, look to the left to see the two-story Kashodo Hall with its ground-floor meditation hall. The rough stone path rejoins the walkway in front of the main gate, completing the circuit.