Eikan-do Zenrin-ji Temple, Kyoto

Eikan-do Zenrin-ji was establised in the late 800s. It was once a great center for Buddhist teachings. I enjoyed my late December visit to this temple very much. The temple buildings are spacious and beautiful, and elegant covered wooden walkways connect them all together. There is even a curving staircase that climbs up the side of the hill behind the temple. You can also enjoy walking around the grounds. There is a pagoda high up on the hill that is beautiful to look at, and you can climb all the way to it, too. From the top, you have a view of the entire temple complex, and the hills of Kyoto in the distance. Finally, there is a simple sand garden here to enjoy.