Tōji-in is a Rinzai branch Zen temple dating back to the 14th century. The temple is one of two funeral temples dedicated to Ashikaga Tadauji 足利尊氏 of the Ashikaga Dynasty (1333–1573). Asides from numerous cultural artifacts of the Ashikaga period and a smaller karesansui garden on its southern side, the temple’s main garden is a large wet-landscape garden designed by Musō Soseki 夢窓疎石 (1275–1351). This garden can be admired, while enjoying a cup of Maccha, from within the temple’s main building, and also be freely strolled around.
For photographers, Tōji-in is perhaps most interesting to visit during Satsuki season in late May–early June, and during the maple foliage season. In 2016, I fondly remember that I was left at awe at the colors in the pond area, and I failed to properly shoot good pictures, having just changed to full frame some two weeks earlier. Over the years, I have realized some changes (a maple tree that was at the center of one of my 2016 pictures was apparently cut down), but the temple is highly recommend to be visited, especially on lightly rainy, misty days.

Admission: open year-round
Nearby places of interest: Kinkaku-ji, Ryōan-ji, Ritsumeikan University (Peace Museum)