River View Temple
Honrakuji Temple in Mima, Tokushima, is a historic Shingon Buddhist temple founded in 828, renowned for its unique gardens and scenic location overlooking the Yoshino River. The temple features a distinctive karesansui (dry landscape) garden designed by Tadakazu Saito, which uniquely incorporates the river as borrowed scenery, symbolizing longevity with crane and turtle stone arrangements. Another highlight is the kaiyū-shiki (strolling) garden, showcasing natural rock formations, a waterfall, and vibrant seasonal foliage. Visitors can also enjoy matcha in the sukiya-style teahouse "Hifumi-an" and savor traditional shōjin ryōri (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine) with prior reservation. Honrakuji offers a serene blend of spiritual heritage and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination in Tokushima.
