Attractions

Myoken ji Temple 1

Myoken-ji Temple

Myoken-ji Temple is the oldest Nichiren Buddhist temple in Kyoto, founded to promote Nichiren Buddhism in the region. The temple offers a peaceful setting, with features like a beautifully maintained kare-sansui (dry landscape garden) and an impressive round window that…

Daigo ji Temple 2

Daigo-ji Temple

Daigo-ji Temple is Kyoto’s largest temple complex, extending across Mount Daigo in the city’s southeastern area. The temple includes three main areas: Sanbo-in, Shimo Daigo (Lower Daigo), and Kami Daigo (Upper Daigo), which requires a scenic but challenging one-hour uphill…

Ninna ji Temple 1

Ninna-ji Temple

Ninna-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an essential Shingon Buddhist temple in northern Kyoto. Originally established in 888 by Emperor Uda, Ninna-ji served as an imperial residence and is one of Kyoto’s Five Monzeki Temples, historically managed by…

To ji Temple 1

To-ji Temple

To-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of Kyoto’s most iconic temples and home to Japan’s tallest five-story pagoda, a symbol of Kyoto’s skyline. Founded in 796, To-ji was designated as a Shingon Buddhist temple by the monk…

bishamondo temple 1

Bishamondo Temple

Bishamondo Temple, located in Kyoto’s Yamashina district, is a Monzeki temple—historically managed by aristocratic or imperial lineage priests. It’s one of the Kyoto Five Monzeki Temples, which hold significant cultural and religious heritage. Known for its stunning seasonal landscapes, Bishamondo…

Otagi Nenbutsu ji Temple 1

Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple

Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple is a unique site in Arashiyama, Kyoto, famous for its collection of over 1,200 whimsical stone Rakan statues representing Buddha’s disciples, each with unique, often humorous expressions. Located in a serene, forested area, it’s an ideal spot…

Shinnyo do Temple 1

Shinnyo-do Temple

Shinnyo-do Temple (Shinsho Gokuraku-ji), located in Kyoto’s Sakyo Ward, is a peaceful Tendai Buddhist temple particularly popular for its vibrant autumn colors. The temple features an Amida Hall, a beautiful pagoda, and expansive grounds. Its quiet atmosphere makes it ideal…

manshu in temple 1

Manshu-in Temple

Manshu-in Temple is a secluded Tendai sect temple in northern Kyoto, known for its peaceful dry landscape gardens and exquisite interiors featuring traditional sliding door paintings. Its remote location keeps visitor numbers low, making it an ideal retreat, especially during…

Jisso in Temple 1

Jisso-in Temple

Jisso-in Temple, located in Iwakura, north of Kyoto, is a Tendai Buddhist temple known for its elegant “floor of reflection” in the main hall, where seasonal scenery from the garden reflects beautifully on polished wooden floors. The temple’s Kyokoku-en Garden…

Sanzen in Temple 1

Sanzen-in Temple

Sanzen-in Temple is a tranquil Tendai sect temple in Ohara, about 1 hour from Kyoto’s city center. Known for its moss-covered Shuheki-en Garden and charming warabe jizo statues, the temple offers a peaceful retreat. Highlights include Ojo Gokuraku-in Hall, which…