Saga

<p>A glass-windowed tea house reflects the autumn foliage</p>

A glass-windowed tea house reflects the autumn foliage (Photo: Mandy Bartok)

Saga

Mountain Gardens of Daikozen Temple

Stunning foliage in Saga prefecture

Mandy Bartok Nov 24, 2014 - 1 min read

<p>A glass-windowed tea house reflects the autumn foliage</p>

<p>The changing maples look like red lace against the sky</p>

<p>A chozubachi is covered with maple leaves</p>

<p>Numerous paths crisscross the garden</p>

<p>The torii from a small shrine is reflected in one of the garden's pools</p>

<p>A maple provides a beautiful backdrop for a rest house in the garden</p>

<p>Fiery maples against a thatched roof building in the garden</p>

Daikozen-ji, a 1300-year-old mountain temple retreat, draws numerous visitors in autumn with its spectacular fall foliage. But the best display of red and yellow leaves is found in the garden behind the temple's main hall. A fee of ¥500 enables visitors to hike the crisscrossing paths to the top of the slopes. Hidden amongst the azalea-lined walkways are streams, tea houses, small shrines and viewing platforms. When the sunlight filters down through the foliage, it's a sight well worth the admission price.

More info

Find out more about Daikozen Temple.

Mandy Bartok

Mandy Bartok @mandy.bartok

Japan resident for 10 years, with time spent in Okinawa, Kumamoto and Tokyo.