About Moss and Rake Kyoto
Respectful digital guides honoring the sacred beauty of Kyoto's imperial and temple gardens
Preserving Sacred Traditions Through Thoughtful Technology
Founded in the heart of Kyoto, Moss and Rake emerged from a deep reverence for's garden heritage and a commitment to sharing this information responsibly. We believe that understanding can enhance appreciation, and that technology should serve contemplation rather than distract from it.
Our digital guides are developed in collaboration with temple administrators, master gardeners, and cultural historians who work to ensure every route, insight, and recommendation honors the spiritual significance of these sacred spaces while providing practical navigation information for modern visitors.
Deep Cultural Understanding and Scholarly Collaboration
Our content development process involves consultation with Buddhist monks, Shinto practitioners, garden historians, and master craftsmen who maintain these living cultural treasures. Every symbol explanation, etiquette guideline, and seasonal recommendation aims to reflect authentic cultural knowledge.
We work with temple administrators to help ensure our routes respect prayer schedules, ceremonial activities, and conservation efforts. This collaborative approach aims to provide visitors with accurate information while supporting the ongoing preservation of these sacred spaces.
Mindful Innovation in Service of Contemplation
Our approach to technology aims to enhance rather than distract. GPS navigation provides quiet guidance to viewing points, audio content can be paused for silent reflection, and offline capabilities help ensure uninterrupted contemplation even in areas with limited connectivity.
We believe that understanding the symbolic meaning of garden elements—from the placement of stones to the pruning of pine branches—can deepen appreciation and encourage the respectful behavior these sacred spaces deserve.
Supporting Conservation Through Mindful Tourism
A portion of every subscription supports garden maintenance, cultural preservation projects, and educational initiatives throughout Kyoto. We partner with conservation organizations to help ensure that increased visitation can contribute positively to the long-term care of these irreplaceable cultural treasures.
Our guide network consists of local experts who are passionate about sharing their knowledge while maintaining high standards of cultural sensitivity and environmental stewardship. Through their expertise, visitors can gain authentic insights that may foster lasting appreciation forese garden traditions.