Saihō-ji, Japan

Saihō-ji is said to have been established as a temple some time between 710 to 794AD but the site had previously been a residence of Prince Shotoku (574 to 622AD)

The best time to visit is from mid-June to mid-July when the moss is at its densest or in autumn when the leaves of the maple trees turn red and orange

Saihō-ji is said to have been established as a temple some time between 710 to 794AD but the site had previously been a residence of Prince Shotoku (574 to 622AD).

Today, it's still functioning as a temple though it's also known for the peaceful atmosphere created by the 120 different varieties of moss covering the floor.

The best time to visit is from mid-June to mid-July when the moss is at its densest, or in autumn when the leaves of the maple trees turn red and orange.

To visit, you have to write to the temple and ask for written permission and entry is around 3,000 Yen (￡22.05).