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 imperial family members. Known for its seasonal Omuro cherry trees blooming later than most in Kyoto, the temple offers spectacular sights in spring.

Ninna ji Temple 1

Highlights:

  • Nio-mon Gate: One of Kyoto’s three great gates, featuring statues of Agyo and Ungyo, symbolizing traditional Heian-period craftsmanship.
  • Temple Layout: Divided into three areas:
    • Central Area: Features Kondo Hall (a former imperial palace hall), pagoda, and bell tower. Free entry most days; an admission fee applies during cherry blossom season.
    • Western Area (Goten): The Goten, or former residence for imperial priests, showcasing Edo-period palace architecture.
    • Eastern Area (Reiho-kan Museum): Houses Buddhist artifacts, open in spring and autumn.

English Address:
33 Omuro Ouchi, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto 616-8092

Japanese Address:
〒616-8092 京都市右京区御室大内33

Opening Hours:

  • March to November: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
  • December to February: 9:00 am – 4:30 pm
    Last entry 30 minutes before closing.

Admission:

  • Goten (Palace & Gardens): 800 yen
  • Reiho-kan Museum: 500 yen (April-May, October-November)
  • Cherry Blossom Season: 500 yen

Nearest Transport:

  • Keifuku Randen Tram Line: Omuro-Ninna-ji Station (3-minute walk)
  • JR Sagano Line: From Kyoto Station to Emmachi Station (then City Bus 26, 10 mins) or Hanazono Station (15-minute walk or 5-minute taxi).

Near to Here:
Located in Northern Kyoto, Ninna-ji is near Ryoan-ji Temple, Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion), and Kinukake-no-michi Road, a scenic route connecting these historic sites.

For more details, visit the Ninna-ji Temple Official Website.

Kinukake-no-michi Road (The Road Beyond Kinkakuji)


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