An exquisite temple dating from 1605, Kōdai-ji (高台寺; kodaiji.com) boasts gardens designed by the famed landscape architect Kobori Enshū and teahouses by the tea-ceremony master Sen no Rikyū. The three illumination periods (mid-March to early May, 1 to 18 August, and late October to early December) show Kōdai-ji’s extensive grounds in full seasonal glory.
Entry pays for the small Sho Museum across the road, exhibiting works of maki-e (lacquerware with gold leaf), paintings and other furnishings. Also outside the temple gates is the Education Hall, where android Kannon Mindar reads the Heart Sutra on weekends (10.30am-noon & 1.30-3.30pm). It's an informative, if a little unnerving, experience.
