里坊は比叡山の僧侶の隠居所で、美しい石積みの町「坂本」には数多く残されている。旧竹林院は、観覧が可能な数少ない里坊の一つ。約3,300㎡にも及ぶ庭園は、四季折々の風景を楽しめる。また、庭園を眺めながら、抹茶を味わうこともできる。 

Satobo are dwellings used as retreats by monks after finishing their training on Mt. Hiei.  Many of these satobo remain to this day in the beautiful cobblestone town of Sakamoto. The Kyu Chikurinin residence with its 3,300-square-meter Japanese garden is one of the few Satobo open to tourists. Tasting matcha tea, while viewing the beautiful garden during any season, is sure to become a memorable experience in Otsu.