An oasis in Kochi City

One of my favorite ways to enjoy summer is to take a stroll around Chikurin-ji Temple. Not only is it a beautiful example of traditional Japanese architecture, but also, an escape from the blazing summer heat

As soon as I enter the precincts of the temple, I feel my body start to cool down. I recall learning that plants release moisture into the air through a process called transpiration, which is why standing under the shade of a tree feels cooler than that of a building. I feel grateful to have such easy access to nature, only 30 minutes away from downtown Kochi City by the convenient MY-YU sightseeing bus

I arrive at a retro local restaurant called Takesaki Shouten right next to the temple, and spot one of my favorite Kochi specialties…aisukurin! It’s a refreshing dairy-based sorbet that has been enjoyed by Kochi locals for over 100 years

I continue on with my walk as I take in the lush green contrasting beautifully with the bright red pagoda, sparkles of komorebi (sunlight spilling through spaces between trees), and iconic melodies of buzzing cicadas

Learn more about Chikurin-ji Temple: https://visitkochijapan.com/en/see-and-do/10056