Shoren-in Temple, located in Kyoto’s Higashiyama District, is a tranquil Tendai Buddhist temple known for its peaceful gardens and imperial connections as one of the five Monzeki temples. The temple’s lush gardens, pond, and moss-covered grounds are especially breathtaking during spring and autumn, when night illuminations are typically held. Due to renovations, however, the night illuminations will not be held until 2025.
English Address:
69-1 Awadaguchi Sanjobocho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto 605-0035
Japanese Address:
京都市東山区粟田口三条坊町69-1
Opening Hours:
9:00 am – 5:00 pm (subject to change)
*Night illuminations closed until 2025.
Admission:
- Adults: 500 yen
- Junior High & High School Students: 400 yen
- Children (Elementary): 200 yen
Nearest Transport:
- Kyoto City Bus to Jingu-michi Bus Stop
- Higashiyama Station on the Tozai Subway Line (10-minute walk)
Website:
Shoren-in Temple Official Website
Shogunzuka Seiryuden is a scenic viewpoint on the mountains overlooking Kyoto, offering breathtaking views from its wooden terrace. Historically, it is the site where Emperor Kanmu planned the founding of Kyoto. This site is especially beautiful at sunset, with panoramic views of the city.
The current Seiryuden Hall was originally part of the Dai Nippon Butoku Kai, an organization for martial arts, whose Budo Hall was located in Kyoto’s Kamigyo Ward. This structure was dismantled and relocated to Shogunzuka, where it was restored and expanded to serve as the Gomado (prayer hall) for Shoren-in Temple. The Seiryuden Hall houses a replica of the National Treasure Blue Fudo Myo-o, while the original statue is enshrined in the inner hall.
For those who enjoy hiking, there are two walking routes to reach Shogunzuka. You can hike up from behind the Giant Bell of Chion-in Temple, which takes about 30 minutes. Alternatively, if you’ve just visited Shoren-in Temple, you can walk up the path starting behind Sonsho-in Temple, also taking about 30 minutes.
English Address:
28 Zushiokukachocho, Yamashina Ward, Kyoto, 607-8456
Japanese Address:
〒607-8456 京都府京都市山科区厨子奥花鳥町28
Opening Hours:
9:00 am – 5:00 pm (subject to change)
*Night illuminations closed until 2025.
Admission:
- Adults: 500 yen
- Junior High & High School Students: 400 yen
- Children (Elementary): 200 yen
Transportation Options:
- By Taxi: 10 minutes from Shoren-in Temple, costing around 1,000 yen.
- By Bus: Kyoto City Bus No. 70 (check for service irregularities on the Japanese website).
- By Foot:
From Shoren-in Temple: 30-minute walking route begins behind Sonsho-in Temple, located northeast of Shoren-in Temple.
From Chion-in Temple: 30-minute hike starts behind the Giant Bell.
Website:
Shogunzuka Seiryuden Official Website
Near to Here:
Shoren-in Temple is situated in Kyoto’s Higashiyama District, an area rich in cultural landmarks. Nearby, you’ll find Chion-in Temple, renowned for its giant bell, and the vibrant Yasaka Shrine, a popular spot for both tourists and locals. You can also stroll along the Philosopher’s Path, especially beautiful during cherry blossom season. For panoramic city views, take a 30-minute walk or short taxi ride to Shogunzuka Seiryuden, offering stunning vistas of Kyoto’s skyline.