Tenryu-ji Temple, located in Kyoto’s scenic Arashiyama District, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Kyoto’s most important Zen temples. Originally established in 1339 by the shogun Ashikaga Takauji to honor Emperor Go-Daigo, Tenryu-ji is the head temple of the Rinzai Zen sect. The temple is renowned for its beautifully landscaped Sogenchi Garden, designed by the famous Zen garden master Muso Soseki, which remains in its original form today.
Tenryu-ji is also famous for the stunning Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, which can be accessed near the temple’s north gate, offering visitors a chance to walk through one of Japan’s most photographed natural landmarks.
The temple’s Hojo Hall features traditional Zen-style architecture, with rooms dedicated to meditation and religious practice. The surrounding garden blends harmoniously with the mountainous landscape, offering a tranquil space for contemplation. The temple is particularly breathtaking in autumn when the foliage turns vibrant shades of red and orange.
English Address:
68 Sagatenryuji Susukinobaba-cho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto 616-8385
Japanese Address:
京都府京都市右京区嵯峨天龍寺芒ノ馬場町68
Opening Hours:
8:30 am – 5:30 pm (March – October)
8:30 am – 5:00 pm (November – February)
*Admission ends 30 minutes before closing time.
Admission:
- Garden Only:
- Adults: 500 yen
- Children (Elementary & Junior High): 300 yen
- Garden + Buildings:
- Adults: 800 yen
- Children (Elementary & Junior High): 600 yen
Nearest Transport:
- Arashiyama Station on the Randen Line (5-minute walk)
- JR Saga-Arashiyama Station (10-minute walk)
- Kyoto City Bus 11, 28, 93 to Arashiyama Tenryu-ji-mae Bus Stop
Website:
Official Website
Near to Here:
Tenryu-ji Temple is located in Arashiyama, an area famous for the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Togetsukyo Bridge, and nearby attractions such as Nonomiya Shrine and Jojakko-ji Temple. For lunch, consider the temple’s vegetarian restaurant, Shigetsu, which serves traditional Zen Buddhist cuisine. As Arashiyama is usually crowded, making an early reservation at Shigetsu ensures a more relaxed dining experience. More info.