Ryoanji, another of Kyoto’s 17 World Heritage Sites, is the home of Japan’s most famous garden. Founded in 1450, this Zen temple’s garden was constructed in the late 1400s, the whole complex a display of perfect harmony and elegant simplicity. The origin and meaning of the garden itself, a classic example of a gravel and rock dry garden, is a mystery, but is thought to be a zen riddle created by a master for his students. Fifteen boulders sit in the space, but from whatever angle you look at it, you can only see fourteen – if you can see all fifteen, you have reached the Zen state of completeness. This is one of Kyoto’s most fascinating sights.

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