✨ Rurikōin Temple 瑠璃光院

This is maybe one of those places that can get so touristy in Kyoto, but I really think it's worth seeing (and the crowds) at least once in your life. A former Meiji-era nobleman's villa at the foot of Mt. Hiei in Kyoto's remote Yase district, Rurikōin Temple 瑠璃光院 was converted into a Pure Land Buddhist temple in 2005.

Open in the spring, summer, and fall, on the second floor of the temple's shoin (or a traditional Japanese study or reception room), is a vast lacquered black table that you've probably seen all over the internet.

But the tables perfectly mirror the maple garden outside (like the picture above) and we were lucky to see it in the fall when it's at its best imo. Reservation is recquired so make sure to book before you go!