The 49 best spots for fall foliage in Kyoto

Visited Tofuku-ji Temple in summer, about two hours before closing. It wasn’t crowded, and the green, calm atmosphere helped cool down the hot summer heat. A peaceful and refreshing visit.

Skip the crowds of Kiyomizu and come here. This is a beautiful temple where you can actually feel some peace and calm because it isn't packed shoulder to shoulder. The rock garden is very serene and there are people just sitting and meditating in the beauty. We missed the color change by maybe a few weeks but this place would be spectacular when colors change. It is packed with maples.

Incredible temple with the best Zen garden I have ever visited. I write this review from the Hondo garden, where I have been reading and contemplating the sculptures for hours. So peaceful, and not as busy compared to the other temples in Kyoto. Take your time here, be respectful, and disconnect for a bit.

Absolutely loved it. As others have said, zen like feeling walking around here. No pushy, crowded, ignorant tourists like the the well known temples and castles. We legged it from our hotel opposite Kyoto station via the back streets, mixing with the locals. Crossed railway tracks with boom gates, fantastic. A great day. A true lesser known gem.

One of the more peaceful sites we visited while in Kyoto. Tōfuku-ji is one of the city’s great Zen temples, founded in the 13th century.

Visiting Tofuku-ji on a rainy day offered a completely different atmosphere — calm, serene, and deeply poetic. The rain brought out the rich greens of the moss and made the gardens feel even more peaceful. The stone paths glistened, and the whole temple grounds seemed to turn into a living ink painting. With fewer visitors around, I was able to really take in the quiet beauty and meditative mood of the place. I highly recommend coming here in different weather conditions — especially the rain — for a truly unique experience.

It's worth checking out! The ticket is required if you visit its old bridge and garden which is 500 Y (3.33$). The garden is spectacular. I went there on 31 July 2025. Imagine if that was in Autumn 🍁! The photo is prohibited at the bridge. But I read it's seasonal.

One of the best temples in Kyoto as It is one of the signature World Heritage sites in Kyoto. We would recommend to come early and also in the evening. Better to visit twice. Such beautiful scenery all around ie lush green forest and perched between them is this majestic temple which you can view from far Walk itself to the temple is lined with lot of eateries and souvenir shops especially lookout for matcha ice creams and drinks You can spend easily few hours here and plan in advance to visit various places within the temple compound as it ll take time due to its popularity Crowd was moving fast hence it was easy to navigate From their update lots of good information Kannon also known as Avalokiteśvara Over 1250 years have passed since the foundation of Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Halfway up Mt. Otowa, one of the peaks in Kyoto’s Higashiyama mountain range, stands the temple, to which large numbers of visitors come to pay their respects to Kannon, a deity of great mercy and compassion. For this reason, our temple is known as a “Kannon Reijo.” “Reijo” is a Japanese word meaning a “holy place” with which the Kannon’s compassion is abundant. Visitors will stand before the Kannon with thankful hearts—feelings of gratitude for coming into this world, your tranquil daily lives, and your loved ones, friends, and acquaintances who are always there beside you. In other words, worshiping Kannon means taking a hard look at your true self. Find the Kannon’s compassion in your everyday deeds. We at Kiyomizu-dera Temple, along with the deity Kannon, wish for the happiness of all people across in the world. When you visit the temple, simply put your hands together when in front of the statue of Kannon and offer a prayer of thanksgiving.

This is one of Kyoto's most famous temples, and the crowds match its fame. I would recommend arriving early (ideally, before 7:30 am). The temple is a beautiful and it is located in a gorgeous area. It is also walking distance to many other temples and historical streets, so it is possible to start your day at this temple and then go on to see other interesting places. This is a wonderful temple, and if you can arrive earlier, it truly becomes a magical experience.

If you have to see one place in Kyoto do this. Spend half a day walking around and exploring the temple grounds. There is a trail going alongside the hill to another temple as well. We visited last year 2024 March during Sakura season and again in 2025 November to see the autumn colors. Both times it’s been beautiful. Be prepared for large crowds. The shops as you come down are bit touristy but that’s the whole fun of the place too, eat as you go along, have matcha soft serve, rice cakes, coffee at the cutest Starbucks.

Kiyomizu-dera is truly a must-visit in Kyoto. The temple is not only beautiful, but it also offers breathtaking views of the city and surrounding nature. Walking through the historic wooden halls and seeing the iconic veranda built without nails is an experience in itself. The atmosphere feels peaceful yet vibrant, especially with the sound of flowing water from the Otowa Waterfall, where visitors can drink for good fortune. The paths leading up to the temple are lined with charming shops and local treats, which make the journey as enjoyable as the destination. Whether you go during cherry blossom season, the lush greenery of summer, or the autumn foliage, the scenery is absolutely stunning. This is one of those places where you can truly feel the blend of culture, history, and natural beauty all at once. A highlight of Kyoto that I would highly recommend to anyone visiting Japan.

Arrive early and you will have place to yourself. Spend the money to take a cab. We were there at 0600 on a Friday in early November. Maybe 100 people on the entire grounds. Easy to take any photo you want and help others get group shots. I would go to Kyoto and just see this in am and be happy. All the approach streets empty so the walk to see architecture is worth it. No shops open but similar shops can be found most everywhere so no loss in trade off for no people. By 0645 the streets were starting to fill and make harder to stop for pictures. The views of temple, valley, and city spectacular. Hilly route but you can avoids stairs.

I recently visited Kiyomizudera, and it truly felt like stepping into a dream. The view from the temple overlooking Kyoto is breathtaking, especially during sunset. The atmosphere is calm yet full of life, with traditional streets leading up to the temple adding even more charm. It’s a place where you can feel both history and peace at the same time. Definitely one of the most beautiful and unforgettable spots in all of Kyoto — a must-visit for anyone coming to Japan! 💞💞💞💞

We had the pleasure of visiting Kiyomizu-dera twice, and it was an unforgettable experience. In the bright light of midday, the temple's vibrant colors and intricate details truly shine, with a lively, bustling atmosphere. Returning for sunset was magical. Watching the sky change colors and cast a warm, golden glow over the wooden stage and the city of Kyoto below was incredibly peaceful and breathtaking. Both visits were beautiful and offered a unique perspective of this stunning temple. Highly recommended!

Based on reviews here, I decided to go early to avoid the crowds. My friend and I left the hotel around 6:30 and we enjoyed a pretty empty visit in the bamboo grove. Definitely recommend this to others interested in a more peaceful stroll. Many of the shops and restaurants are closed in the morning but I still prefer it to being packed in.

Nice, tucked away area of Kyoto in the hills. Nice scenery, seed a lot cooler than downtown. Easy to get to by bus. Some overpriced food and souvenir options, but not much else except scenery and temples. Quite crowded with locals and tourists, but nothing crazy.

It’s a pretty place. You first walk through a row of nice shops and food stalls — very happening and lively. Then you reach the bamboo path, which looks lovely. We went in the evenings — embraced the crowds— I’m not obsessed with getting the place to myself. I actually really liked the shops outside. They were just cute. Very Kyoto. And definitely tourist prices but fun.

One of my favorite places in Japan. The scenery in all seasons are just amazing. Was here several times in Spring during full Sakura bloom and now in fall for the colors. Amazing. Can’t possibly explore the whole area in a day.

There’s NO bamboo forest in this location! Bamboos is on another side of the river. However, the walking path goes along the river and leads to an old temple. Temple is original and there are no tourists. You can also have a break on the riverside rocks.

Arashiyama mornings are pure magic Since the stores were still snoozing, we grabbed our trusty Aquarius drinks and set off for a stroll. Crossing the iconic Arashiyama Bridge, the soft morning light made everything glow like a dream — naturally, we stopped for a million photos. It was a holiday, so the area was buzzing with tourists, locals, and even a school field trip — but somehow the serene vibe still won us over. And because Arashiyama clearly loves surprises, we even spotted a Poke Lid of Ho-Oh — yes, that legendary firebird joining our morning adventure. Moral of the story: mornings here are less about shopping and more about sipping your drink, soaking in the calm, snapping your best shots, and maybe, just maybe, catching a legendary Pokémon along the way.

The famous bamboo forest of Arashiyama is worth visiting. Allocate at least two hours for this excursion and time it early in the morning to avoid the crowds, too.

I visited this temple on another rain soaked morning. It has been drizzling since breakfast and in spite of that, many tourists like us was undeterred and pressed on! We bought tickets at the front counter and explored the grounds. The buildings and surroundings were well kept and neat. There were clear signs to guide us along the path. Some paths may be slippery because of the rain so caution is advised. The compound is beautiful and you can almost feel the history when you step into the old temple and feel the original woodwork. There is a tea house inside as well as quaint cafes outside so if you feel peckish, there are nice, quite places to stop and replenish and rest.

A lovely temple with several buildings over a spacious garden. It’s very popular with many tourists: I saw three buses in the parking lot, but it’s spacious enough that it didn’t feel crowded. It’s on a slight hill so you can go up stairs and paths up into slight wooded areas. There is a small bamboo thicket that you can pass through to get the feeling of a bamboo forest. One of the buildings requires removing your shoes to explore. There is another building where you can sit & take some tea for an extra fee. I explored this place alone, and enjoyed it a lot. It was verdant and the air was refreshing. This is one of those destinations where people take photos in their rented kimono outfits, which seemed odd to me. As a western female redhead it would never occur to me to do that but there were lots who did. There are several rental shops nearby. I took a city bus to get to the temple which was easy and inexpensive.

Beautiful light illumination experience! The main illumination show was excellent — vibrant lights, great sound, and an engaging story that I wanted to watch again, though it was a bit short (around 5 minutes). The temple grounds themselves are calm and pleasant to walk around at night. The lighting on the trees is nice, though not particularly special. There’s also a small bamboo garden which adds to the atmosphere. Be careful while walking: many paths have stone steps that can be slippery. There’s no stamp available on your own booklet. Instead, they sell a pre-stamped temple paper for 500 yen. Evening illumination entrance ticket is 600 yen per person.

Going to this temple at night whenever they have their special ligh show and illumination is a wondrous experience. It is just so gorgeous. The light show is nice and fun, but the best part are the trees reflecting on the lake, all illuminated, and simply gorgeous. The fact it was fall and they had all these different pretty colors made it all even better. I have been to this temple both during the day and at night, and I found the night experience even more memorable. I would very much recommend going whenever they have their temple illuminated.

Kōdai-ji is such a peaceful and beautiful temple to visit in Kyoto. The gardens are stunning — especially with the reflection ponds and bamboo grove that give off a calm, relaxing vibe. The temple buildings are elegant, and the pathways are well kept. If you visit in the evening, the light-up display makes it even more magical. It’s not as crowded as some other Kyoto spots, so it feels more relaxing and personal. Definitely worth a visit if you enjoy nature, history, and quiet moments.

Beautiful temple in the Higashiyama area. The garden is absolutely beautiful, especially during Koyo (autumn) when the leaves are changing colors. The bamboo forest is incredible too, and if you don’t want to go all the way to Arashiyama (or don’t have time), this place is a great option to visit. Also wasn’t too busy, even for late October.

We visited this temple at night for the special light up event! It was a lot of fun and such a cool experience. The walk through their mini bamboo forest was much more enjoyable than the famous Arashiyama one. Great fall foliage here as well.

The atmosphere was calm, quiet, and full of charm, with long rows of lanterns creating a truly magical scene. It’s the kind of place where you can slow down, take a deep breath, and really feel the history and serenity of Kyoto. I was also lucky enough to see a monkey performance during my visit, which added a fun and unique cultural touch to the day. The shrine grounds are well-kept and spacious, and it’s easy to spend time just wandering around and admiring the traditional architecture and nature around you.

Magnificent shrine especially at night with all the lanterns lit up. The plum blossom bonsai were beautiful. It's a pity the blossoms aren't blooming yet but even then the walk was magical with all the tea lights in the trees - and the rare blooming tree was such a treat! I wish we were here for the blooming time!

Best flea market we found in Japan. It tales places the 25th of each month ( if I’m not wrong ) you can find there a lot of stuff but the best is to go before it’s crowded! You can combine it with a visit of the parc / shrine. We saw some beautiful cherry trees and a small monkey. Don’t hesitate to plan this during your next trip to Japan !

It is a beautiful and historic shrine dedicated to the god of learning, Sugawara no Michizane. It’s a peaceful place to stroll, especially during plum blossom or autumn leaf seasons. When I visited, there was a monkey performance right at the entrance — the monkey was so cute and clever! It was fun to watch and added a charming surprise to the visit. A great spot for both culture and unexpected entertainment.

A unique shrine seldom frequented by tourist ( thank God) but by locals. U can see plum blossom here . One can also see plum blossom here as one garden just nearby . Sadly , it has not flower yet and so I spent money to see the bonsai ( which is quite nice but the collection is quite small). Keep the ticket as there will be complimentary biscuit and tea. I quite like the white lantern lighting up . It is quite unique. Despite visiting so many shrine; this one still worth the visit . Oh yes on 25th February there is offering of plum blossom that is quite unique. Please don’t forget to visit the museum . Need to pay 1000 yen. As there are not many people, I got a complimentary personal guide tour. See high quality painting ( cannot take photo), bronze Japanese map cum mirror; beautiful swords ( beautiful handle, some of them is made of shark skin) and the scabbard can be made of expensive jewel or lacquer. Also See the samurai mask and armour suite.

Great place to go on 七五三 where small kids and their families are wearing kimono. They are so cute!

On our way back to the hotel from Kinkaku-ji, we unexpectedly came across Tenmangu Shrine. Many locals visit this shrine to pray for success before exams, so we decided to stop by as well. The shrine was peaceful and serene, offering a tranquil atmosphere away from the tourist crowds.

I'm surprised that this beautiful temple isn't as popular as the other ones in Kyoto because hands down, this was my favorite. It wasn't crowded, the place was serene, the view amazing and the fall colors just really came alive. Must visit if you find yourself near the philosophers street.

We walked in because this was rated 4.6 and were very happily surprised! This should be on a must see list- the garden, the temple itself, the route, the waterfall, and the pond with lotuses! Come here especially to see Japanese maples in autumn!

I didn’t go inside the temple, just walked around the garden and pond. The area is small but nice for a short stroll. The temple itself seems large, but it was rainy and crowded, and you need to remove your shoes to enter. Worth visiting if you enjoy temple interiors, otherwise the outside area is quite small.

Such a beautiful temple complex and the fall foliage was finally starting to turn! It was very cool to get high up into the trees for some views and then back down below by the pond in the garden for others.

This temple should definitely be on your must-visit list in Kyoto. It’s a large area with a beautiful garden and a uniquely designed temple. We came in the afternoon and enjoyed the sunset on the top of the temple.

An excellent place to enjoy autumn leaves. Photos can’t capture what the eyes truly see. Sunlight filters through the layers of red leaves and reflects onto the window glass like a dream—absolutely beautiful.

View from the top of the grounds is very expansive and pretty. The small green areas can be calming and colorful. Lots of great photo opps around the pond

One of those Kyoto spots that are not as popular among tourists. Definitely worth the visit if you are around the area. 10/10 could have been more beautiful if the momiji was around.

A must see Kyoto attraction as a tourist. A bit far from the station, which was great for a more quiet, relaxing visiting. There's both paid and free areas, both are beautiful. Definitely worth a visit. Also one of the few temples where there's opportunities for tourists to take their shoes off and walk freely inside. Please be considerate of staff instructions and posted signage.

Amazing zen temple a bit away from main Kyoto attractions. There was not that many tourists there as in most popular temples which contributed to the calm and spiritual vibe. If you can I recommend going for matcha tea room there as it’s so beautiful and relaxing. I absolutely recommend coming there to enjoy cultural side of Kyoto.

A bit of walk to get to. The nearest bus stop is 10 minutes walk, but it takes you through a beautiful part of the city. Interesting aqueduct that's worth checking out. The grounds are very peaceful and the sound of running water is all around you.

We are a family of 5 and were looking for an alternative to the busy tourist areas of Kyoto. At Nanzen-ji this is exactly what we found. Very few people between 9 and 11 am. Beautiful views and impressive landscaping and historical buildings. We explored the area for about 2 hours. Highly recommended!

Technically it's free of charge if you don't enter Ten Juan garden. You likely just walk around and can't enter the temple itself. But the garden around is quite nice. There's also subway station nearby.

Nanzen-ji Temple is an awe-inspiring and peaceful place to explore, full of history, natural beauty, and stunning architecture. We began our morning here and it was the perfect start to a day of quiet reflection and discovery. Walking through the massive Sanmon Gate into the lush temple grounds felt like entering another world. The Dharma Hall (Hatto) was particularly impressive, with its intricately painted ceiling and serene atmosphere—it gave a real sense of the depth of Zen tradition. One of the highlights for us was the Suirokaku Aqueduct, a beautiful brick structure nestled among the trees that felt almost European in design, yet harmoniously integrated into the temple grounds. It was peaceful, photogenic, and a great spot to pause and take in the surroundings. The entire temple complex is spacious and calming, and it connects beautifully with the start of the Philosopher’s Path. A must-visit if you're in Kyoto, especially if you enjoy quiet places rich in culture and character.

Gorgeous temple with a call Zen garden, forest walkways, and mountainside views. Fantastic historical pieces and art on display inside. As a tourist, I did not perceive this as a place advertised as a Kyoto must-see. After attending, I think it is. It's not too far from nearby hiking and running trails. Entry fee was 800 yen. It is a very peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the busier parts of Kyoto

This was a beautiful little temple! We had a very nice visit! We nearly had the whole place to ourselves. The garden was so lovely, I could have sat there and listened to the cicadas sing for hours! It was well worth a visit!

This wonderful temple was suggested to us by an AI inquiry. We visited about 10am after a visit to the Golden Temple which was crowded with school groups. By contrast we almost had this place to ourselves and it was so beautiful, tranquil, and spiritual. The gardens especially are stunning.

Amazing place! Really peaceful, quiet. Beautiful garden and view, bamboo forest. Highly recommended to go here instead of overcrowded places in Kyoto city center

I was impressed about the stone garden and backyard green garden. Please go through the gate over the stone garden. I could sit down on the floor like zazen about 30 minutes or more. Trees and green are beautiful. And also we can see Kyoto city because here is in the mountain. It takes about 15 minutes from Shirakawa street on foot. ☆

Great place for serene quietness. It does not have the rush of crowds of tourists, just calm surroundings where one can contemplate life.

My favorite, it's so peaceful and (for now at least) is a great escape from the crowds. Beautiful for both sakura and momiji seasons.

This was an experience. It’s old and run down and could do with a lick of paint. But you know what, it’s what keeps many tourist away. So the atmosphere is a lot nice than Kinkakuji because the crowds take away from it all. There was one section which to get further there was lady wanting another 500yen. I was initially annoyed at it but then I got a guided tour and it was pretty cool listening to the guy. The toilets could do with a clean but hey, I guess that’s why they’re not that busy.

We visited in early Nov and the leaves are starting to turn red. This temple has beautiful gardens, you can opt in doing a 2hr hike up and down the mountains in the very back. The entrance is 600yen for one place, 1000yen for 2 places, 1500yen for 3 places. We picked 2 places and ended up spending an entire afternoon there.

Visited during cherry blossom season. Wasn’t too busy when we arrived in the morning, but it gets busy in the afternoon. Overall, lots to do learn and do in the area. One of the nicest pagodas I’ve seen!

Unbelievable. I highly recommend getting the 3-zones ticket as they all have something great to offer. Pretty lowkey compared to other temples in Kyoto but memories you will never forget.

A great escape from the crowds at an iconic temple. Some of the buildings may not be as "shinny and polished" as some of the others but in Japan it's all about the authenticity and it's well worth a visit!

Daigoji Temple offered a perfect morning of sakura viewing. The full bloom created a stunning, immersive experience as we walked the temple grounds.

The best temple I have visited so far in Kyoto with not so many tourists

Mainly reviewing in case others were concerned, as I’d been, that the “special opening” involved anything inconvenient—it couldn’t be simpler; no reservation required, photography allowed everywhere, there’s sutra copying but it’s optional. This is really an old resort home/restaurant that became a temple recently, so it doesn’t have many of the structures you might expect: instead you can see two excellent gardens and some interesting architectural features inside. I got in for half price as a student, the usual fee of 2000¥ admittedly seems a bit steep. Probably even nicer but even more crowded in the fall.

A perfect place to see how the wealthy, high ranking people lived in the (very) past. This house has beautiful architecture and is amazingly well maintained. When in the area, it sure is worth a visit, certainly when architecture, style, culture, and ‘Zen’ are of your interest.

*visited 7 July 2025 * Oh my god, breathtaking place! It really looks like the pictures, off the typical tourist path just a short walk away from the Main Street along the river. Can get a pit crowded, but the staff is very good at managing the rooms so that not too many people are in one room at once, they also check so that people don’t stay too long in the photo spots. Super relaxing and calming atmosphere surrounded by nature, it’s a sensory experience. It is pricey for Japan I must say, but if you consider it’s not a museum it’s an artist hub and this is how they support the artists working there.

The place was quite crowded, and the line to check tickets took a long time even though I had already bought tickets in advance. Even with a pre-purchased ticket, you don’t really enter at your selected time slot — people who arrive earlier just line up first, while some guests with 11:00 or 12:00 tickets showed up much later and still joined the queue. If you haven’t bought a ticket beforehand, there’s a separate line. After all online-ticket visitors enter, they let the walk-in line in to purchase tickets. I visited in late November, but the leaves hadn’t fully changed yet, so the background inside the temple was still mostly green. There isn’t much storytelling or historical explanation about the site, but if you’re coming to enjoy the scenery and stroll around the temple, it’s quite beautiful and worth a visit. Inside the temple it was surprisingly cold even in autumn — almost as cold as outside because all the doors were open and the wooden floor keeps the chill. The location is a bit far from the city center - almost 1 hour by bus, and it’s hard to combine this spot with other attractions on the same route. However, you can pair the visit with the Eizan Railway — the train ride itself is beautiful during autumn, with colorful foliage visible along the way to the temple. A nice visit if you plan your trip around it, but not the most convenient location.

very long drive to the hillside snd small temple easily overwhelmed by tourists the main scene was small and unless you rent the whole place and set it up for photography it looks very little like what is seen in postcards and calendars fee is not cheap and parking is limited

What a stupid way to spend 2000yen per person. A tiny house with some nice views on the garden. So over hyped. You are crunched in small rooms with other tourists taking the same stupid photo of the table reflection. The beautiful Nijo castle with vast gardens and incredibly painted interiors is just 1300yen. This place is just a rip-off.

The man who had the idea to place a low black reflective table in front of that window is a marketing genius!. Ruriko-in is beautiful place but there are more beautiful places in Kyoto, Lots! That low table has created a big business employing at least a dozen people just to control and direct the flow.; Now the second genius move was to instil a sense of scarcity by imposing a reservation system. it works, you are eager to come, nervous to be late, happy to be the chosen one. All in all the place is much too crowded ( if you want a meditation moment that ain't the place) and seems essentially to be considered like an instagram moment by a lot of young people. Why else coming? There are more beautiful pictures, than the one you can take, shot by professionals easily downladable from internet. But Hey, if you look for a great business plan model around a small beautiful residence visiting Ruriko is definitely a MUST.

We visited the Chionin Temple as part of our walking tour of the historic district in Kyoto. The main gate is massive and so impressive leading into the larger area where the main temple is. Chionin is the head temple of the Jodo sect of Japanese Buddhism, one of the most popular Buddhist sects in Japan. The temple has spacious grounds and large buildings. The Sanmon Gate, Chionin's main entrance gate, stands 24 meters tall and 50 meters wide, it is the largest wooden temple gate in Japan and dates back to the early 1600s. The grounds are very beautiful including many other buildings and a display of large Lotus flowers in bloom. Worth a short visit if you are in Kyoto.

This is a huge temple complex. The main gate is enormous and beautiful (the stairs to go through it are also impressive lol). There are many interesting sights and temples. One of the more moving moments was a ceremony that was happening to honor the ancestors of local families in the main temple (which is beautiful and majestic inside, though no pictures or videos are allowed). I would recommend visiting this temple complex, and the gate as well as the main temple are the highlights, in my opinion.

We visited this temple (for free) around 09:00 on a Tuesday. Very few tourists, but a lot of Japanese partaking in a ceremony. We were allowed to watch (but not take photos or video), very interesting! For a small fee, you can also visit a nice garden. From this temple, you can access a small cemetery and also access the Kyoto trail. I recommend this temple if you want to escape the crowds and experience something more authentic, but still very close to Gion and the city center.

Entrance was impressively huge. It's also free. You won't spend too long here, maybe 20 minutes, and there's also a garden but I didn't go. Maruyama park is nearby.

Beautiful temple design is worth visiting, but make sure to go through the right stair path. The left one from the entrance is for men, and the right one is for ladies. (Use the right side path if you're using kimono/dress)

The temple is a serene and enchanting destination that perfectly embodies Japan’s spiritual and cultural heritage. Nestled amidst lush gardens, the temple’s architecture reflects traditional Japanese craftsmanship with intricate woodwork and graceful design. Visitors can explore peaceful courtyards and experience the calming sound of wind chimes swaying in the breeze. The temple’s tranquil atmosphere is complemented by its historical significance, with centuries-old artifacts and carefully preserved interiors. Whether you’re seeking a spiritual retreat or simply an escape from the hustle and bustle, this temple offers a profoundly peaceful experience. Be sure to visit during early morning hours or in cherry blossom season for an even more breathtaking view.

A great temple to visit that may get a little less crowded. I went mid day and it was far less busy than expected. There are a few shrines and a large bell here.

Went here last year’s autumn at 6 AM just to avoid the crowd 😂 But it was worth it, there’s no crowd, so you can take picture freely. The foliages had already fallen a lot, but it’s still very beautiful. The only downside is the temple had not opened yet, so i couldn’t have a look.

The foliage is late this year so not quite a peak as xepectes, but it's still worth visiting. Will come again to see the floor all red with fallen momoji leafs.

it was beautiful but a bit of a trek and not so much to see / do once you get there. they did have absolutely beautiful goshuin if you collect those. you can enter the temple and see old artwork and enjoy the atmosphere. photos are not allowed inside. there is a very slow process to purchase tickets as it's one window.

definately will be back in autumn. in summer all the flower are gone so it is not much to see. the temple tour is 700 yen and the goshuin is 400

A little out of the way from the main tourist area in Kyoto, this shrine is located on a hill after walking past the quiet residential area. The shrine is known for the beautiful autumn leaves. It was too early in the season for me to enjoy that but I was glad I decided to visit here. You can rent a device for a pretty good self-guided tour on the history of the place. No photos allowed but there were several good water colour paintings on fusuma doors.

Stunning temple! We got a fantastic tour of the interior from a very friendly monk, and watched wedding couples in ornate kimonos taking photos in the grounds. The autumn leaves are stunning. Recommend taking a taxi up to the temple as it’s quite an uphill hike.

I wouldn't recommend it for people with limited time in Kyoto as there are a lot of places you should see before this one. But if you're in Kyoto for a long period and you happened to be in Yamashina during autumn, it is nice place to enjoy autumn leaves with less people than in the most famous temples and shrines of Kyoto. I was there a bit too early in the season, so my pictures are not as beautiful as they could have been one week later...

This place was really beautiful and relaxing, unlike very crowded tourist areas. There were no disturbance from other people. My kids loved it here. Highly recommend!

Tucked away in Kyoto’s peaceful outskirts, Sanzen-in Temple feels like stepping into a hidden paradise. Note: Entry costs 500 yen (cash only), so come prepared. The experience begins in the main temple, where you’ll remove your shoes to walk on pristine tatami floors while admiring the stunning views outside—though be prepared to share this photogenic spot with other visitors. The real magic begins when you step outside. Meander along red arched bridges spanning gentle streams, discover charming miniature Buddha statues tucked among the foliage, and lose yourself in the temple’s exquisite gardens. Every turn reveals new tranquility. With so much to explore, plan for at least 2-3 hours here—it’s well worth dedicating half a day to fully appreciate this oasis of calm.

10/10 recommend! The most beautiful garden I have ever been too.

Lovely temple grounds with a moss garden and hydrangeas in the summer. Even the walk up here was quite enjoyable with a stream to the right and local shops to the left. The main building can be pretty crowded with tourists but the garden wasn’t that bad. Not too difficult to access by public transport from central Kyoto.

Very calm temple with a garden area. Definitely an area I would recommend. After paying the entrance fee, you'll visit the inside of the temple without your shoes. Take this time to clear your head and sit down and you'll understand why the notion of "zen" is japanese. The gardens and the views you'll see are beautiful and peaceful. Afterwards you'll reach an open area with a lot of flowers and trees, separated by a small river. You can cross the bridges and see small statues on the ground, green as the grass. They'll protect you with their blessing!

Such a peaceful experience and lovely views. My camera doesn’t do it justice, it’s a very beautiful temple.

Beautiful grounds, must visit if you are in the area!

the most beautiful, peaceful and quiet out of all the temples I went to in kyoto! the gardens have some of the most stunning trees I have ever seen, you really get to experience the fullness of the temple (unlike a lot of the more touristy ones in kyoto that you just walk around and take pictures of within 5 minutes)! such special touches too like a book you can leave a message in and the gorgeous bamboo grove and ugh love !!!

Tranquil, stunning and rich in culture. This temple was a brilliant introduction to Kyoto and was such a good vibe. Was so zen and quiet. A lovely way to spend a few hours. Take shoes off on entry as no walking on wooden floors with shoes on. Shoe lockers provided. Then shoes back on for walking around the garden. Very clean. Very clean toilets. Staff nice. Cash only ticket fee.

So serene. Somewhat off the typical tourist path so not too crowded. Entry price is very cheap given the amount of things to see inside the buildings and the beautiful garden grounds which you can roam. A highlight of the smaller temples. Can't recommend it highly enough.

A must visit in Kyoto! A serene experience away from the crowds, we visited on a weekday afternoon in June and only a handful of visitors were there. You can enjoy learning about the history of the temple, the beautiful art and calligraphy as well as wandering around the gardens and a small bamboo forest. Cannot recommend enough!

PLEASE DO NOT SHARE THIS PLACE ON TIKTOK AND RUIN IT! Best place/tempel/shrine I have visited in Japan, so peaceful so quiet, so much history absolutely stunning garden you feel at peace just being there. NOTE: you are not allowed to take pictures inside still many people do…… you are not allowed to wear shoes since it is inside.

Amazing serene garden and temple just a few minutes away from the insanely busy Sannenzaka/Ninenzaka streets. This is a great place to relax after getting over-stimulated by the mass-tourism of Kyoto.

It is on the way from Yasaka Shrine to Ginkaku-ji by foot. The temple has main hall and rock garden next to it. It is very quiet and peaceful. Good place to be relaxed and away from over-tourist areas.

Okay, this is really a beauty. However that is because of the nature the shrine is embedded in. There are more impressive shrines in and of themselves, but it's the area that really makes it worth it. The bus brings you to the local village from the train station, the way down you can do on foot. Enjoy the restaurants, they really have a special view by integrating the water springs. All in all, beautiful experience. Please donate a small sum so that the mountain will be continued to be preserved

Magical and serene.⛩️🍃 Tucked deep in the Kyoto mountains, Kifune Shrine feels like a portal to another world. The iconic lantern-lined staircase is even more breathtaking in person, especially on a misty day. The forest air is crisp, the sounds are peaceful, and there’s a calm energy that’s hard to describe — you just have to feel it. Perfect spot to pause and reconnect with yourself.

This beautiful shrine was so peaceful. Got there at 6am via taxi and only saw 3 other people. The latterns were still glowing on the trail. We got to walk through and take our time without feeling rushed through prayers and photos. On our walk down, we started passing several families and busses. Glad we went early!

The shrine and the journey to get there were beautiful. We were very lucky to attend the Fire Festival, which was a deeply moving cultural experience.

Two bus rides from the center of Kyoto this shrine is a beautiful change from the heat of the city. Not a tour bus in sight, we were able to stroll around and enjoy. The bonus was the wonderful lunch we had on the platform that straddled the babbling creek.

Gorgeous. A great escape from the city, it was so peaceful and beautiful I couldn't get enough of it! We hiked up towards the shrine then had lunch before we left. 10/10 would recommend! 😄

Go early, the shrine is beautiful 😍 I recommend then taking the trail to kurama, be prepared for a couple hours hike in the forest though.

Free entrance in the city, almost nobody in the streets. The bonsai garden is small but impressive, considering the age of the bonsai, up to 800 years !

Peaceful and relaxing visit. We only had 2 hours to visit which was unfortunate. To really enjoy the various temples and take it all in, I recommend about 4 hours or more. This would give more time to relax, experience the ambiance and reflection.

Awesome place to visit. Easy to get to from Kyoto station...subway train then a short bus ride all well sign posted. You pay for each area you visit within the temple. If you love zen gardens this is the place. Don't miss the smallest zen garden. It was very quiet as I think not on the main trail of tourist places.

Beautiful and serene temple in Kyoto, you also can join Zazen Meditation session in the weekend evening at 16.30-17.30 and it only ¥1000 (incl tea ceremony after zazen)

Very big palace complex with 4 temples you have have to pay if you want to see them. Not many tourist came here but it was worth it

Some temples are commercialized, this is the total opposite. Serene and peaceful sprawling concept, but most temples are closed and there is not much else to see.

Super place to visit. Amazing gardens and hardly any people.

I recently visited Kinkakuji, and it completely captured my heart. The golden pavilion shining over the calm water is one of the most stunning sights I’ve ever seen. The reflection on the pond looks almost unreal, like a painting brought to life. Walking through the peaceful garden feels timeless, surrounded by nature and beauty at every step. It’s an unforgettable place that perfectly represents Kyoto’s elegance and spirit. I’d highly recommend everyone to visit and experience its magic in person! 💞💞💞💞💞💞

Beautiful golden temple especially on a sunny day. The golden temple shimmering over the pond feels almost unreal, especially when the reflection is perfectly clear. The surrounding gardens are peaceful and beautifully maintained, with little paths and viewpoints that make you slow down and take it all in. It was crowded, but a quick visit is enough to leave a strong impression

​The Crowded Experience at the Golden Pavilion, Kinkaku-ji ​A visit to Kinkaku-ji, widely known as the "Golden Pavilion," is often a highlight on every traveler's "must-see" list for Kyoto. It appears on every postcard and guidebook, but as you experienced, the great anticipation doesn't always align with the reality on the ground. ​The Gap Between Expectation and Reality ​The expectation was to see the dazzling structure, covered in pure gold, perfectly reflected in the tranquil waters of the pond, just as seen in photographs. Without a doubt, the building itself, standing on the water's edge, is a magnificent sight in its architectural beauty and golden gleam. ​However, the reality is that the experience often becomes challenging, primarily because of the unbearable crowds. ​The Crowds That Undermine the Experience ​The central issue at Kinkaku-ji is the massive audience. Visitors are directed along a narrow path that circles the pond, and everyone is trying to capture the exact same moment, from the same viewpoint. ​Difficulty Appreciating the Beauty: When you have to push and move with the masses, it's very difficult to "absorb" the beauty and experience the serenity that should prevail in a Zen temple. Instead of deep contemplation, it becomes a race to take a photo and move on. ​Lack of Intimacy: The place, which by its nature should encourage quiet and meditation, feels like a mass tourist site where the temple is merely a fleeting visual attraction. The pressure to keep moving doesn't allow one to fully enjoy the golden reflection or the meticulously maintained surrounding gardens. ​In summary: Although the Golden Pavilion is a visual masterpiece, the crowds destroy a significant part of the opportunity to truly appreciate the power and beauty of the location. In this case, the gap between the temple's image and the actual visitor experience is quite wide.

The temple and surrounding gardens are absolutely stunning. Breathtaking actually. Unfortunately the experience doesn’t allow for that to be enjoyed. There are literally bus loads of people there. You more or less line up to take a photo then feel compelled to move quickly from that vantage spot to allow the next person to take their photo. The grounds are a one way walking system which is orderly and likely much less chaotic than if it was not implemented. But it is also hard to meander or linger and enjoy the views. There was no peace to find. And you cannot enter the temple. I arrived at 10.30am in September. You can easily buy tickets at the entrance. There were some stalls and tea rooms at the end of the walking circuit.

Reading the comments, I thought there would be hundreds of tourists. Yes, there are a lot of visitors but I found that you still got to enjoy the grounds and take nice pictures without too much hassle. Also, everyone stops (me included) right at the first sight of the Golden Pavilion, because it truly is amazing, but a few steps to your right and you’ll have plenty more space for photos/selfies and the views are also beautiful. The Pavilion was once the retirement villa of the shogun Ashikaga Yoshimits and after his death it became a Zen temple, and now we can all enjoy it 😊 Since it was raining half the time during my trip to Japan, I tried to plan this visit on a sunny day, so that the light would reflect even more on the gold leaf. It must also be amazing at golden hour ❤️

It’s a gold temple... iconic, elegant, and definitely photogenic. That said, the visit itself is a bit short and underwhelming since you can’t go inside. Still, the ticket doubling as a blessing talisman is very cool and makes for a nice souvenir.

Another must-see temple in Kyoto. The image of this building, with its 2 top floors covered in gold leaf, and appearing to float on the water, is an iconic view in this city. The whole scene is breathtaking, so do not rush your visit here. Walk around the building and see it from different angles. The serenity of this Zen temple will certainly leave an impression on you. Beautiful!

This is about a 15 min ride from Kyoto Station. Walking through the castle feels like walking back in time of the Shogun. The interior is phenomenal and well maintained. The craftsmanship of the paintings is out of this world. The grounds are beautiful with an exquisite garden. The tour can be viwed at your own pace or you can purchase the audio tour with the ticket. Keep in mind photos/videos are not allowed inside the castle.

My absolute favorite cultural site in Kyoto. Unlike the overly crowded Kiyomizu-dera and the always-popular Fushimi Inari, the crowds here are far more manageable. You can easily visit this after Kiyomizu-dera since the Osaka City 202 bus has stops nearby. The place is incredibly beautiful. Even with its rich history (if you’re a fan of Shogun, this is a must), it feels like you’re suspended in time. The palace gardens are the highlight, and in autumn they’re some of the most stunning in Kyoto. Highly recommended. Don’t skip it. Ticket: 1,300 yen for Ninomaru-Goten and the garden.

I enjoyed a lot my visit to the castle, a World Heritage Site and an important part of the shogun history. I arrived a little after it opened so it wasn’t too crowded. I got the combined ticket to go inside and it’s worth it (1300 yen I believe). Most of the panels are not original but you still get a glimpse into the past and it’s beautiful. The nightingale floor sounds need to be listened in person, it really sounds like there are birds inside! You’ll also see a lot of Japanese children in school tours which is lovely, and their teachers looked really invested in explaining them the history behind the castle. Unfortunately, no photos are allowed inside but they sell postcards with nice pictures. Also, you have to take your shoes off to go inside the castle. The gardens are also pleasant. The perimeter outside the castle seems to be a favourite spot for runners 👍

My mom and I explored the castle while visiting Kyoto. We really enjoyed walking through the Ninomaru-goten Palace and viewing the beautifully painted wall screens. It was also fascinating to learn about the nightingale floors and hear them in action! The gardens and entrance gates were also intricate and beautiful.

Super cool experience! The gardens are perfect for a stroll, and the palaces are beautiful. Seeing the official palace also gives you an amazing understanding of Japanese history and power through time. It is super interesting to look at the architecture and understand its cultural significance

The autumn colours were beautiful at Nijo-jo Castle and the Honmaru Castle. No need to battle the crowds like at other scenic spots in Kyoto. Joining the guided English tour at Nijo Castle brings more life to the buildings. There is no guided tour at Honmaru Palace but they will play a short video in Japanese with English subtitles to tell the significance of this place in the history of Japan.

I did the tour of Nijo castle with an English tour guide. Hideko was so sweet and gave us great insight into the history of the castle and discussions between all of us was great. Definitely opened up my eyes. With have Hideko with us, it definitely helped the experience of seeing everything or reading a small paragraph about what we saw. I highly recommend visiting Nijo Castle and if able do a tour.

Me and my parents visited this place in the evening and the view was stunning! Although only a little red leaves when we were there, the layers of colour (green/ yellow/ brown/ red) mixed together in harmony. The temples and Buddha statues were breath taking as well! Highly recommended. If not because if the time constrain, I'd love to visit there in daytime too.

One of the best temples we have been too. Won't bore you with temple part, but the best thing was, the sunday we went, they had a huge flea market. It was just awesome. All this great 2nd hand stuff within the grounds. Just blown away with happiness. I got a way cool wind up small clock and Mrs got some strange dolls lol

Absolutely spectacular! It was crowded and warm in September, as to be expected, so bring water, dress cool and arrive early! It’s stunning! The gardens and the grounds are serene and the pagoda is remarkable! Be respectful, as this is a holy place and people are there to pray at the temples.

The 2 huge main halls smell like ancient wood, very calming & zen… The garden is quite small, pond water is kinda dirty, but got a big grey bird & nice photo views of the pagoda. Good to visit for once.

To-ji Temple surprised us with how tranquil and serene this place was. It was also neat to visit this temple’s pagoda, the tallest wooden structure in all of Japan. We lucked out because the pagoda happened to be open, a rare occurrence usually only reserved for special occasions. The temple gardens were lush and calming, especially by the pond. Inside the temple itself stood massive sculptures that make us feel so small, though no pictures were allowed inside. Time wise we spent about an hour and a half to two hours here comfortably. We’d love to come back here someday. Make sure not to miss this wonderful place!

The gardens at this temple were the highlight of our visit. We were lucky to time it to see the gorgeous fall colors and the cool calm day was perfect. It was not at all crowded the afternoon we were there which contributed to the peaceful atmosphere. We didn’t see it at night when it’s beautiful under the lights.

We are staying a couple blocks away from this temple and walk through it every morning to get to th train station. Such a wonderful experience. Right now from Nov 9- Dec 14 they light up the temple at night and you pay 1000 yen for a night experience.

Beautiful gardens with amazing views. I was disappointed though that on my visit the tea house had closed down ( it was removed from the signage too). The price at 1000Y was high when compared with the most famous gardens in Japan. If you are in the bamboo forest, a walk through the free park there is equally rewarding.

Free water & variety of tea at the resting place, view is great in the late summer, quiet spot amongst the crowded bamboo tourist area. It’s worth the price, just take a stroll & enjoy the views. Will come back to checkout the autumn scenery!

As per its description, it is a beautiful garden. We really enjoyed strolling around, following its path. Not crowded (not as the bambou forest is), It is a wonderful peaceful place.

Well worth to visit this beautiful garden estate, in my opinion even more than the garden of a hundred flowers. Incredible scenery and perfectly cared for plants. The Zen garden part should not be missed. We probably spend 30 minutes there relaxing and taking it in.

Beautiful chilled circular walk around a lovely garden. 1000¥ price keeps out the crowds. Takes a slow 40 mins approx. Nice little display at the end with pics of the actor who created it.

For just 1,000 yen, you’ll discover the best part of Arashiyama—far quieter than the crowded bamboo forest, with sweeping views of Kyoto city and the surrounding mountains. Absolutely worth every yen.

Beautiful gardens, relaxing tea house and amazing views away from the busy bamboo forest path. Highly recommend!

One 25 minute bus out of Kyoto and you arrive. It's definitely worth the time. It's very quiet there and not overcrowded with people. There's a large pond for you to walk along but also there's a very unique bamboo forest where I was the only person. Silence... Additionally there was Plumb Orchards. This is a very peaceful environment to be in with zero crowds. I highly recommended

We came here specifically for the special occasion Kangetsu No Yube, or moon viewing night, during the mid autumn festival observed through the Sinosphere. Dailakuji is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Japan and specifically the event venue the Daiwaza Pond is renowned for its history. The ceremony is so peaceful that is really out of this world. Next time we will definitely make reservations for the tea and boat ride.

It was an unplanned visit while waiting for a bus, but we were pleasantly surprised. The staff was really kind. The pond area is worth visiting, very relaxing. There is even a path in a bamboo forest! We went there on a Saturday morning and there were very few people.

This is a great get-away temple from all the crowds in Arashiyama area. I’d highly recommend the pond area. We happened to see two monks praying and spent an hour+ on a walk around the pond. Highly recommend.

One of the most beautiful places we have been to on our honeymoon. The lake is stunningly beautiful, the tranquility is all around. We were lucky to have witnessed a Buddhist ceremony. Can't wait to go there again.

Daikaku-ji Temple is a historic temple in Saga-Arashiyama, Kyoto. It was once an imperial villa and later became a Buddhist temple. The temple is famous for its peaceful gardens, traditional buildings, and the beautiful Osawa Pond. It’s a quiet and relaxing spot near the popular Arashiyama area

Found it randomly when taking the wrong bus. Beautiful, historical, hardly any people here. One of the few temples in Kyoto that feel like a temple rather than an overcrowded theme park.

An absolutely wonderful park visit. There’s no “huge” attractions but it’s excellent because you immediately forget you are in a city the second you step in. There are various small shrines, the main castle is very cool (even though you can’t enter). For us after walking for a long time, it was a nice little break to cool the mind off as well.

It’s pleasantly surprised to find such a quiet place with many big tall trees in Kyoto. The Garden is serene with great energy. I totally love the big tall trees with low branches that I can feel and connect. We can see the various entrances to the Palace which are gated and fenced not allowing for entry. A lovely place for someone who loves trees.

the palace is close on mondays. the nice gardens are all inside the palace, so make sure to check the opening hours of the palace. the place is really big, wear comfortable shoes as it will be a long walk. really nice place to look at maples leaves during autumn. drones are not allowed at this place

Visited in July recently on a third trip to Kyoto. This time just one day to cover Koyozumi-dera and the surrounding area and finished up here before ending at Kyoto tower. The garden is reasonably large for a good walk. It is more a park than a garden as there were not any flowering plants.

Really relaxing we had our breakfast in there and satyed for around 4 hours before we start the day exploring kyoto the park Really amazing and peaceful

Kyoto Gyoen National Garden is a massive green space perfect for just walking around or sitting on the benches. I visited during Obon week so I couldn't enter the Imperial Palace, but I still enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere of the garden.

I could not go in the temple cause it was already closed but I went around and just enjoying the parc. And it's really pretty and super huge! But this place gave some relaxing time!

Was a pretty quiet temple, not many tourists. It's small but really lovely. Loved the square and circle windows. Noticed the bloodied footprint on the ceiling - apparently they used the floors of a different place as the ceiling here

This is a small but unforgettable temple which you should not miss if you visit Kyoto. Admission is ¥400, and it's completely worth it. The main hall's ceiling is built with blood-stained floorboards salvaged from Fushimi Castle, where Torii Mototada and his 380 samurai made their final stand and committed seppuku in 1600. Looking up, you can still make out handprints, footprints, and dark stains in the wood. Balancing that somber history is a beautiful garden and two striking windows: the round "Window of Enlightenment" and the square "Window of Confusion," each carrying deep Zen symbolism. The contrast between the peaceful setting and the chilling story behind the ceiling makes this place truly unique. Goshuin are available as pre-made sheets rather than written directly in books, but that didn’t take away from the experience. Genko-an left a strong impression on us, both serene and eerie at the same time.

If you’re a history buff, must visit! This temple has the 德川 family seal, the 血天井 is about the famous fight of the loyal family lord worriers 鸟居元忠… HUGE Respect to him & his brave soldiers, they didn’t die in vain at all. Now they’re resting in peace at this beautiful place… I’ll go back again to see the autumn leaves. It’s relatively quiet & less people in Sept.

With fewer tourists, the temple feels even more incredible. At Genko-an Temple, a riddle is carved in wood: what separates ordinary sight from the vision of the enlightened? Two windows frame the same garden—one square, “The Window of Confusion,” the other round, “The Window of Enlightenment.” Though the view is the same, perception changes everything. Once a hermitage, later a Soto Zen temple, Genko-an houses serene statues of the Buddha and Kannon Bodhisattva. Its “bloody ceiling,” made from the floorboards of Fushimi Castle where defeated soldiers met their end, still bears faint palm prints. Buddhas or blood? Enlightenment or confusion? Genko-an holds both, quietly asking its visitors to see.

Way better than other temples because it is less visited and extremely serene. Lots of history too including the blood stains from fallen samurai. You must research the history on this as it is an amazing!

Amazing garden and historic building. Worth my time come here all the way.

I was lucky to go when almost no one was there. The temple is a jewel in so many ways. Take a moment to enjoy the natural landscape, the spaciousness, the soft fragrance of Japanese incense, the golden light, and the view through the windows. Take a moment to decipher the Chinese calligraphies... It's fine take some time... Take a moment to contemplate the perfect nature of enlightenment and the edgy nature of confusion. Take a moment to wish that all beings may reach perfect and complete awakening. Take a moment to pray for those whose bloody footprints and handprints have been enshrined within the ceiling. Take a moment to admire the exquisite ornaments and details of the interiors. Take a moment to observe how even the gardener embodies the spirit of zen. Or just take a picture of the Sakura, plum blossoms or momiji. The gardener will be happy to help you.

This might be Kyoto's most famous temple. I went in the evening on a Thursday night at the end of October, and it was still full of people. The temple is beautiful and its many gates are iconic. Since it is open 24 hours, I would recommend arriving as early as possible, if you intend to hike up (I have done it once and it is a very neat experience). If you go at night, you will have some cool photos and a different vibe, but maybe not the best hiking experience (though it is still possible a good experience). This is a best of the best cultural experience in my opinion, and I would highly recommend it (though everyone seems to be aware of that!).

Fushimi Inari Taisha is an unforgettable experience and a must-visit when in Kyoto. The iconic thousand vermillion torii gates create a magical, almost otherworldly atmosphere as you walk up the mountain trails. The shrine itself is beautiful and deeply spiritual, offering a glimpse into traditional Shinto practices. What makes it truly special is the combination of culture, nature, and history. You can take your time exploring the smaller shrines along the paths, encounter friendly fox statues (messengers of Inari), and enjoy breathtaking views of Kyoto from higher up the trail. Be prepared for a bit of a climb if you want to reach the summit, but it’s absolutely worth it. Early mornings or late afternoons are the best times to avoid the crowds and fully enjoy the serene ambiance.

I left the hotel to take an early morning train just to avoid the crowd. Alas, despite the morning shower, the crowd is still present during such early hour. The overcast sky is a stark contrast against the orange hued architecture here. Everyone had their umbrellas out which means navigating the narrow vermillion hued corridors was a challenge but nevertheless, I persisted. Taking a photo without anyone present is almost impossible but our commnunity is very cooperative and once we see someone taking a photo, we all stopped behind them and let them finish. I really love this vibe. Thanks to the weather, we left this place earlier than we wanted to but I do intend to return under better weather conditions.

⛩️ Fushimi Inari-taisha – with foxes on the sacred mountain This shrine in Kyoto glows in vermilion hues, drawing you into a path of living prayers. Thousands of red torii gates — each donated by those giving thanks or seeking blessings — create an almost otherworldly passage through faith and time. Dedicated to Inari Okami, the Shinto deity of rice, fertility, and prosperity, Fushimi Inari is watched over by foxes — messengers of the divine — carved in stone and hidden in spirit. 🦊 It’s a place where spirituality, history, and the quiet breath of the forest meet. 🌿 The shrine is open 24 hours a day, so you can visit even at night or at dawn to witness monks welcoming the sunrise. 🌅 Admission to the sacred mountain and temple grounds is free, and nearby you’ll find small restaurants and souvenir shops.

Fushimi Inari Taisha is absolutely breathtaking — a place that feels both iconic and deeply spiritual the moment you arrive. Walking through the endless rows of vibrant red torii gates is an experience like no other, creating a stunning pathway that feels timeless and almost otherworldly. The atmosphere is peaceful yet full of energy, and every turn reveals beautiful shrines, quiet corners, and sweeping views over Kyoto. It’s one of those places that leaves a lasting impression long after your visit. Truly a must-see and one of the most unforgettable spots in all of Japan.

A must visit in Kyoto. Went on a Sunday morning 8am ish while it's raining lightly. Was expecting a bigger crowd because of how famous this place is but turns out the rain might have scared a good portion of them which works out for me. Did the full hike including multiple detours for all the non-conventional routes (most of them ends up in a loop so it's pretty neat), and it took me around 2.5 hours. Most of the other routes usually lead to all kinds of shrines, and one even led me to a path with bamboo trees. While it's true that the higher you hike, the lesser the crowd is, I still find it pretty hard to land a crowdless picture especially on spots which I find pretty but that's okay.

Perhaps the most famous attraction in Kyoto, but it’s extremely crowded and at times feels like you’re being herded like cows, especially at the first torii gates. I was honestly disappointed at the start because it was packed with tourists. I’d say around seventy percent were foreigners. I arrived at 9:30 AM and the tour groups made it feel like a supermarket. My initial disappointment faded once I reached the upper areas. The crowd thinned out, and while there were still many people, it became manageable. The place is set on a mountain, and at the top you can enjoy a peaceful natural setting with shrines dedicated to Inari. If possible, visit before 7:00 AM so you can actually enjoy some peace and quiet.

This temple is a gem. It is truly remarkable, beautiful, and inspiring. It is also near many other temples, so it is possible to go to various temples in the area. This one is excellent. The gardens are beautiful, to the point of being almost impossible to stop taking pictures. I feel like that is a reaction to wanting to soak it all in and keep it forever, and many fellow travelers were doing the same. It was raining some when I went and that honestly added to the atmosphere. The temple was very popular and there were many people out and about, but this did not impact my visit much. I would highly recommend a visit to this temple if you are in Kyoto.

Beautiful temple that is a little bit hidden from the city, kind of on the side, which means that it is not wall to wall with modern buildings. There is some kind of peace in the temple, it is quiet, you don't here cars or noise from the city. Beautiful garden with those amazing specially made gardens with sand and rocks which are racked in a specific way. There are fish in ponds which makes children love this temple. Like in almost all museum, temples or tourist attractions, there are toilets available which are clean, they are situated close to the exit and gift shop.

As a tourist visiting Kyoto, Ginkaku-ji felt like a must see. The temple is a sight to behold and the gardens give a zen, warming feeling. The staff working tirelessly to maintain the garden and their effort is well appreciated. Washrooms are by the gift shop and the gift shop itself is pretty cute to visit for unique souvenirs. Weather is perfect is November for visiting if sunny out.

Ginkaku-ji in Kyoto is a serene gem. I truly loved the stone garden, so unique and calming. I would have loved to spend an entire day there just meditating. There’s also a spot nearby where you can try a traditional vegetarian tofu dish (2000¥), and it was delicious. Once again, go early in the morning, later in the day the entire place is packed with tourists!

The temple itself is simple and elegant, but the real magic is in the garden. The moss-covered paths, perfectly shaped pine trees, and raked white sand patterns feel almost unreal. The walking path that loops uphill gives a beautiful view over the temple and Kyoto city. Worth the visit.

My favourite temple in Kyoto ! There’s an admittance fee and you have to pay in cash. It closes at 5pm so we went at around 4pm and it was so gorgeous at sunset. The silver pavilion and all the gardens is a must see ! There are lovely shops and food stalls on the path leading up to the temple too.

Ginkaku-ji is a beautiful and peaceful temple surrounded by stunning gardens. The moss and sand landscapes are perfectly maintained, and the walk offers amazing views of Kyoto. A must-visit spot to experience the calm and refined beauty of Japan. I recommend visiting this place.

Inside this temple in Kyoto, you can experience the best example of a Zen garden (dry landscape), probably, in the world. Featuring a series of 15 carefully selected and placed rocks, with moss around them. These are surrounded by a bed of pebbles that is carefully raked in a wavy pattern that resembles ripples in water. In order to better appreciate this beautiful scene, it's better to change the angle when viewing it. At different times of day, with the sun hitting the rocks and projecting constantly changing shadows on the pebbles, you'll find different meanings to the arrangement. Sit down in front of this rock garden, and take your time, breath deeply and enjoy!

​A Meditative Experience in the Stone Garden of Ryōan-ji ​A visit to Ryōan-ji Temple is undoubtedly a classic Japanese experience, combining art, history, and deep philosophy. ​The Stone Garden: A Philosophical Challenge ​The central focus, the Stone Garden (Karesansui), is a place that demands patience and actively stimulates philosophical thought for those who are interested. It is a minimalist art installation: 15 stones, of which only 14 are visible from any single viewing angle. ​The feeling is one of absolute quiet and an attempt to understand the hidden meaning behind the precise arrangement. For those interested in Zen philosophy, emptiness (Ku), and paradox, this garden is a fascinating place that raises questions about perception, completeness, and the nature of sight. It invites you to slow down, breathe, and search for the hidden 15th element. ​The Real Charm: The Surrounding Gardens ​However, as you pointed out, sometimes the true enjoyment is found in the surrounding gardens outside the main viewing area. ​Tranquility and Natural Beauty: Walking the paths that circle the temple's central pond is a breathtaking experience of serenity. The lush greenery, the small bridges, and the manicured azalea bushes create a perfect contrast to the minimalism of the stone garden, allowing visitors to revel in the beauty of Japanese nature at its peak. ​A Chance to Relax: If the stone garden challenged the mind, the outer gardens soothe the soul. They provide the perfect moments of rest and contemplation where one can simply enjoy the moment and the overall atmosphere of the historic temple. ​In summary: Ryōan-ji offers a unique blend: an intellectual challenge in the stone garden, and visual comfort in the surrounding gardens. It is an interesting and layered experience suitable for both those seeking meaning and those who simply love nature and tranquility.

11th century temple (The Temple of the Dragon at Peace) with amazing park and Zen garden. The Ryōan-ji garden is widely regarded as one of the most outstanding examples of kare-sansui (‘dry landscape’): a sophisticated style of Japanese Zen temple garden characterized by prominent rock formations set within a field of fine pebbles, meticulously raked into linear patterns designed to encourage meditation. Sometimes a lot of tourists, but you can find spot for feel this amazing beauty.

Might be worth a visit after the Golden Pavilion if you have time (I walked there and it took around 20 minutes). However, the stone garden itself is rather small and unassuming. I much preferred the real gardens around. I guess it might be more interesting for people who are more zen and into meditation. However, with tourists waking all around you, I don’t know how zen that can be. Would skip it if I was short on time. 600 yen as entrance fee.

Unlike other attractions with bigger scale and tourists, this place is located a bit off main area and give Zen like state to visitors. You will see a carefully arranged trees, rock garden, some serene sceneries. Well worth its visit.

It's a beautiful temple with zen garden, big lush gardens in and around and a beautiful lake. On the other hand, the tourists are very loud so finding your zen or meditate would be impossible in my opinion, unless you are really good at that. Still beautiful place and would recommend seeing it, maybe during less busy times.

Ryōan-ji, located in Kyoto, is a Zen temple famous for its serene rock garden—an elegant arrangement of fifteen stones set in white gravel that embodies simplicity and meditation. The garden’s design invites contemplation, as no matter where you stand, at least one stone is always hidden from view. Originally an aristocrat’s estate, Ryōan-ji became a temple in the 15th century and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Beautiful gardens! Note that you have to pay a separate fee to enter the buildings. We did not, but we still had a great time exploring the grounds. Little aspects of the garden felt very charming and special. Can become a bit crowded with tourists and school groups during peak season, but not too bad. Highly recommend a visit!

This was a great place to be. We got there when it opened and there was a small line to get in. I recommend getting there as early as you can because by the time we finished it was jam packed. The garden was stunning and makes for a good instagram/facebook photos. Going up the stairs in forrest gives you great views of Mt Fuji if the clouds doesnt cover the amazing mountain.

Beautiful temple, especially around the lake. You’ll see many people wearing kimonos and it’s wonderful. It’s 1000 yen per adult but it’s worth it and the leaves are now changing and showing their autumn colours ❤️

The shrine is inside Arashiyama Bamboo Grove at Kyoto. It is a natural wonder that is so serene. Walking through the towering bamboo stalks, gently swaying with the breeze, creates a sense of peace and awe. The soft rustling sounds and filtered sunlight add to its magical atmosphere. Though often crowded, it remains a must-visit spot for anyone seeking tranquility and a quintessential Kyoto experience!!

Grounds were nice and went to two zen gardens. First near front was very small and no worth entry fee to me. Second near back was beautiful. Garden peaceful and building nice as well. There mid morning in November and it was not that crowded. Most people took the “normal” entry to bamboo Forrest where it was packed. This garden lets you out on the path you see in all the pictures. Before you exit you get a spectacular “backside” view of bamboo up the hill side. I would recommend entering the Forrest and pay the money to see this garden.

Beautiful stop as you are walking through the bamboo forest. We did not pay the extra to go inside. Beautifully maintained and peaceful. Outer trail goes up high to some decent vantage points of Kyoto.

Lined up 10 minutes before the opening. You are most likely to walk past the north gate if you came from the Saga-Arashiyama station walking towards the bamboo forest. You pay a 500 yen entrance fee for the garden and an additional 300 yen to enter the temple. When I was about to leave (around 9 15 am), the crowd levels were already starting to get scary.

Great place to visit and relax. Also great opportunity to get some walking in your day. Don’t just enjoy the temple but also enjoy the surrounding area and take a walk along the river too. Take your time and soak in the entire experience. Done right you’ll end your day relaxed and ready for the evening.

This temple is the one on the 10 cent of the Japanese Yen coin. I really wanted to see it. So when my family decided to go to Uji in Kyoto for matcha, I made sure to visit the Byodo-in Temple. It is really beautiful. And as you go around the structure. The path will take you inside the Byodo-in Museum. Photography inside is not allowed so I don't have photos to show here. But it is a sight to see. This site is not that big and there are benches near the wisteria tree to sit and rest while you enjoy the view. Do try and visit.

Byōdō-in Temple was originally built in 998 as a countryside villa for the powerful Fujiwara clan. In 1052, Fujiwara no Yorimichi converted it into a Buddhist temple reflecting the Pure Land (Jōdo) belief in paradise. The temple’s most famous structure, the Phoenix Hall (Hōō-dō), completed in 1053, enshrines a statue of Amida Buddha and symbolizes the Western Paradise. The hall’s elegant reflection in the pond evokes serenity and harmony. Surviving fires and wars, Byōdō-in remains a masterpiece of Heian-period architecture and art. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and appears on Japan’s 10-yen coin.

The most peaceful calm please in uji. The stunning photographs that can be taken of the central pavilion is awesome. The light, the skies, the greenery.The lake, the water and the stunning structure.All create a perfect harmony. The museum is worth visiting.It's very beautiful, it's a small one, but still beautiful. The precincts of the place are very calm and peaceful. You can just sit and spend time over there for hours in deep reflection.

This temple is a must if you’re near Uji! Our group did a last minute visit with buying the tickets on site. It was very easy and fast. There are machines from which you can just order and get your tickets. Very fast and efficient like most stuff around this corner of the world. Would also like to mention there’s a free museum entry on site to which you won’t see most advertised places. It was 800¥ to go in and it was worth the whole experience. Although it was super hot… 🥵

Lovely temple on a lake. Entry is ¥700 + an additional ¥300 for entry to the Phoenix Hoo-do Hall (separate queue for the hut on the right after you enter with staggered entry times). We arrived at 12.45pm with entry time of 1.30pm for the Hoo-do Hall and walked around the left side of the lake and completed museum before our time. The interior is quite small hence why few people are allowed inside at a time, the Bodhisattva is imposing and grand but murals are faded due to the temple age. You can see murals replicated in the museum so I wouldn't say it's a must do to go inside.

Beautiful temple and lovely grounds to walk around. I came on a Sunday so it was understandably more crowded (a queue to get in too). I didn’t pay for the special entrance to view the special hall but admiring it from afar was enough for me. There’s also an indoor museum showing the history of the temple and some other artefacts but no photos allowed. Worth a visit for first visit to Uji or if you would like to appreciate its Heian era significance. Choosing a non weekend/public holiday day is ideal for a better experience.

Ninnaji (仁和寺) is one of Kyoto's great temples that are listed as World Heritage Sites. Ninnaji is also famous for a grove of locally cultivated, late blooming cherry trees called Omuro Cherries. Because the trees are late blooming, Ninnaji is a good place to visit towards the end of Kyoto's cherry blossom season, which is usually around mid April.

Beautiful world heritage site without many tourists. The garden was specially gorgeous and the atmosphere was peaceful and tranquil. Definitely one of the more underrated temples in Kyoto. The surrounding streets were nice to walk and catch a glimpse of old city Kyoto. There were some cafes to wind down after a long walk and the train station is worth checking out as it is old timey too.

Absolutely worth the trip if you are in the area seeing Kinkaku-ji. Far less crowded, and many pagodas to visit. The combined special ticket for both areas is pretty pricy at ¥1300, and was to be honest not worth it. The special exhibition allows you access to a small temple, it’s beautiful but not large and the presentation is only in Japanese. You are better off getting the base ticket.

World heritage site temple. Worth a visit. Not too many tourists. Half of the Japanese garden is currently a construction site. Still full price charged. The second 'exhibition' you can enter a temple, no pictures allowed, explains the brochure with pictures of what you see inside... Safe the money for that.

A peaceful and memorable place. Ninna-ji offers a strong sense of cultural heritage, with historic buildings and grounds that feel thoughtfully preserved. The temple complex is spacious, featuring quiet gardens where you can walk without the crowds found at more popular spots. Autumn foliage here is relatively beautiful — not the most intense in Kyoto, but still very enjoyable in a calm atmosphere. Its location between Arashiyama and Kinkaku-ji makes it convenient to visit, especially if you’re exploring the western side of the city. A great stop for anyone who wants history, space, and a relaxed experience.

Nin’na-ji Temple was founded in 888 as a retirement home for the emperor. It is free to wander around the temple grounds and view the exteriors of the beautiful historic buildings. Only the palace and gardens, which were relocated from the Imperial Palace, require an admission fee. The interiors of other buildings are sometimes open to the public for limited periods.

Part of the garden is under restoration. It’s not crowded for a world heritage site, nice & quiet under sunset in autumn, beautiful & calming

A long and sparse procession of walkers stretched for kilometres along the well to do road leading to Gioji. It was a late September morning, and nestled beneath a towering bamboo forest, and near ready to turn maples, the brilliant green of Gioji’s moss garden shimmered in the sunlight; this garden does not disappoint. My husband and I leisurely strolled through the ancient site which appearoin the Tale of Heiki from the Heian Era 1200 years earlier. At that time it was a convent and the story goes that Gio a beautiful dancer came here with her mother and sister to become nuns when Kitomori, a Taira clan chieftain left her for another woman. Surprisingly, the second woman also came later to become a nun and so it became a tale of forgiveness. Inside the thatched hut a statue of each of them is on display and their graves are in the nearby garden. The nearest station is Arashiya ma, the nearest toilet is at Seiryoji Temple and the entry fee is 300 yen.

The moss looks like a soft rug that you'd just like to roll around on haha Beautiful small shrine, not too crowded. Please pay attention to how the light changes the aura of the place - really relaxing!

My favorite shrine in Kyoto. It is not about the building or the size which is very small. The garden is so beautiful with its green moss and ferns. A place to calm down and enjoy nature.

Gioji Temple may take the cake for my favorite singular experience I did while in Kyoto for a week. The lush moss garden is stunning and the most green landscape I have ever seen in my life. Tickets were 300yen per person if I remember correctly (it may have been 500) but were absolutely worth it. We went on a weekday morning and were one of only a dozen people visiting. It was serene. It is not a lengthy experience unless you are wanting to sit and observe for a while, but between the nearby preserved street, cafes, and other temples I absolutely recommend visiting if you are in the nearby area. One of the few Kyoto experiences I would come back and do again.

Quite a long walk round Nara but the reward was a serene peaceful visit here under the trees. Known for its moss garden.

Really beautiful temple with incredible moss. We could see the caretaker gently brushing the leaves off it, which made the whole thing even more impressive to see. We were lucky to arrive at a quieter moment but I expect it can get quite busy.

That temple has best and humbe garden among other temples which I saw. I really loved it. Also it is not crowded at all, actually when we visited, we were the only guests there. It was beautiful

Spectacular walk through an expansive imperial estate. Pay attention that you’ll need to join a tour (start on the hour, mist be there some 15-20 minutes in advance) and take into account an 80 minutes duration. The estate is immense and the landscape fabulous, therefore strongly recommended if you can fit it in your program !

Online RSVP & Passport/ID required. Stunningly gorgeous! On the mountain & amongst the rice fields… Behind those normal looking bamboo doors, the beautiful hidden views of this carefully designed imperial villa is a must see in Kyoto. It’s huge, need lots of walk & climbing stairs… the tour takes about 1.5 hrs at least, & walking kinda fast. Will go back again to see the fall views.

Shugakuin Imperial Villa is not a commercial tourist facility. It is a facility managed by the Imperial Household Agency, open to the public to share its historical and cultural value. Currently, it is open to the public through guided tours, where staff from the Imperial Household Agency provide explanations, and these tours are free of charge. Naturally, there are rules for visiting. If you do not follow the rules and act selfishly, it is only natural that you will be warned or cautioned. Therefore, there is an age restriction, allowing only adults over 18 who can understand these common-sense rules to visit. The purpose of the visit is to tour the gardens within the villa, and it is meaningless to expect the same "hospitality" as a commercial tourist facility. Do not mistake it for Disneyland or Universal Studios Japan. There is a misconception that there is a quota for foreigners, making it difficult for Japanese people to make reservations. Recently, with Kyoto's summer temperatures exceeding 35°C and heatstroke alerts being issued, Japanese people are simply avoiding walking the approximately 3km tour route under the scorching sun. If you happened to visit when there were many foreign visitors, thinking that foreigners are being given special treatment over Japanese reservations is just paranoia or a misunderstanding. Next, some people maliciously interpret the presence of an Imperial Guard at the end of the tour group as treating visitors like criminals under surveillance, but this is just paranoia. The Imperial Guard accompanies the group to be prepared in case someone falls and gets injured, feels unwell, or an unexpected accident occurs during the tour. Thinking that you are being treated like a criminal under surveillance is just ridiculous paranoia. Did you read the terms & conditions of the advance reservation? There are always conditions for making an advance reservation, and you can only make a reservation if you agree to these conditions. Despite the condition that "the date and time of the advance reservation cannot be changed," some people complain that they cannot change their reservation. Complaining about not being able to change the reservation after agreeing to the condition that it cannot be changed is contradictory. You should not complain just because you are not being pampered like in a commercial facility. Acting selfishly without following the rules and then holding a grudge or taking it out on others when warned is not the behavior of a sensible person. The purpose here is to visit... and by visiting, you have already achieved that purpose.

Beautifully maintained gardens. No kids under 18. Nothing risqué just manicured greens! Reservations required. English tour done via audio guide

A picturesque garden, So beautiful in autumn!! Reserve ahead about two months in advance. Free with guided tour.

Shugakuin Imperial Villa (修学院離宮, Shugakuin Rikyū) was built in the 17th century by Emperor Gomizuno and is now managed by the Imperial Household Agency. It consists of the Upper, Middle and Lower Villa areas, each featuring gardens and buildings of the traditional imperial style. Shugakuin's name comes from a former temple built on the same site in the tenth century. The Imperial Villa was constructed between 1655 and 1659, with a palace for Gomizuno's daughter added ten years later. More recently in 1964, the surrounding farmlands were bought by the Imperial Household Agency. Local farmers continue to work the fields. Shugakuin is only accessible to the public through guided tours. Tours last about one hour and twenty minutes and take visitors through all three villas, pointing out the significant garden features and structures. The tour is held in Japanese; however audio guides in several foreign languages are available. As with all Imperial properties, it is not possible to enter any of the buildings. However, for those interested in Japanese design and architecture, several buildings are left open along the tour route so that visitors can see inside. Important features such as elevated tatami mats and painted panels are pointed out by the audio guide

Amazing tour visit, one of the best places to visit if you love gardens in Kyoto. We came here on a Sunday and you MUST be on a reserved tour to go in inthe mornings (unless you are part of the imperial family), if not first come first served guided tours for 1:30pm and 3pm, with around 38 tickets (free) for each session. The tours are in Japanese for 1.5 hours but can request a pre recorded guide recorder in other languages. Also must bring a form of ID as they request to see it when getting the tickets. The walk is great and the scenery -breathtakingly beautiful. The red leaves 🍁 have just started a little now, so by November must be amazing.

Beautiful complex, and so much less crowded than the bamboo forest. Go here after you get annoyed with the hordes. Lots of stairs, climb all the way to the top for a nice view of Kyoto.

Favourite temple around this area. Definitely worth paying for. Not only the gardens and the shrines are beautiful, but the view of Kyoto from the top is incredible. I came at 9am and I had the place for myself.

This temple is the best spot to enjoy the autumn leaves in Kyoto. I was truly impressed! 🍁 Photo : 2 Dec 2024

Beautiful temple on the hillside — probably the most beautiful one we visited today. The grounds are spacious, with a lovely garden, lots of moss, and beautiful old trees. There’s also a great view of Kyoto from the top. Peaceful, green, and absolutely worth visiting.

Worth the visit. Some of the trees have started the autumn foliage. Best season for me. Quiet temple and you can enjoy the walk… and stairs to see the city from the observatory point

If you ever find yourself thinking if the extra ¥500 admission fee is worth it, then the Jojakko-Ji temple is definitely a location where you can be assured that that money will be well spent. The temple is absolutely breathtaking and has it all. The short hike across the temple grounds will take you all the way up the gorgeous, flower surrounded platform with a view of Kyoto, while getting there you will come across gardens, shrines, and pagodas.

A quiet, serene temple with a nice hike to the top of the hill. There are many shrines on site here, and at the top is an amazing view of Kyoto!

He's being a small beautiful Temple with entrance fees. It was shady and beautiful mossy green everywhere. They're very nice elderly people keeping it clean. This was a short ways off the philosopher's path and worth the diversion if you're not in a hurry.

This temple is a hidden gem easily reached while exploring Philosopher Path in Kyoto. It is a small serene shrine. The unique covered in moss roof opens the spectacular view on two raised sand art construction. Once you see too many shrines this one might positively surprise you!

Nice temple and grounds, but unfortunately the temple is closed off to the public. We did enjoy the grounds though and in one of the buildings there were a sale by some cute older japanese ladies!

Beautiful and peaceful Buddhist temple with lovely gardens. Buddha statue and footprints at the back. Don't miss the cemetery next door, too!

Tucked away at the foot of a mountain, the temple was blanketed in lush green moss, creating a scene so tranquil and ethereal it felt like stepping into heaven. A truly unforgettable moment of peace and beauty.

Although quite small, it is beautiful with has a very quiet and soothing atmosphere. It is one of my favourites. It is only a few of minutes away from Ginkakuji and is definitely worth it.

A beautiful temple just off the Philosopher's path. A good way to take in nature as this temple is normally very quiet and completely surrounded by nature. Definitely recommend

Quiet and beautiful, the embodiment of a Japanese style house, they also have a carp pond and a pretty big garden in the back

Such a zen place! I bet it’ll be even more beautiful during foliage season

A place best described in the following. Tranquil and peaceful. You can explore a wonderful old Japanese house and it's garden. You can relax on the tatami and listen to the sound of nature. You can rush through the whole experience in 10 minutes or if you take your time and relax then 30-40 minutes. The entrance fee is 500¥ but totally worth it.

I've been to maybe 50 Buddhist temples in Kyoto over the past 15 years, and Shisen-do is, IMHO, one of the top five. It's a must-see for the incredible gardens, interior screens, scrolls, and other objects on display inside the temple. They do not allow photos inside the temple, and there is a particularly wonderful scroll of a Yurei that I was unable to find in their books and postcards for sale, containing the haunting image of a female ghost with wild hair, open mouth and white robe. Edo period I believe, and one of the most wonderful images of a Yurei I've seen. I'd return to Shisen-do just to see this scroll again someday. This temple is a lovely, warm and welcoming place all-around.

The garden is beautiful and the atmosphere is very relaxing and peaceful. I spent 2-3 hours. But the attitude of the lady working there isn’t nice at all. Generally, this place is only to take your money and you’re expected to have a quick walk. Also, a lot of rules: it’s forbidden to take photos inside, only outside possible. It’s forbidden to lie on the tatami, only you can sit for a while. It’s forbidden to talk as well. Generally, my feelings are very mix, because of the lady making remarks.

This place is so amazing. You should go once if you visit japan(If you like old traditional house and architecture). All of this photo are winter period, in my opinion i wanna go for second time in autumn period.(to see red leaves and various of flower garden)

Great place to relax and read the history. Has garden to walk around

Beautiful temple with a rich history and unique cultural heritage, including the tradition of throwing pottery discs off a cliff to “lose” your worries. The staff are also very friendly. This is the starting point of a hiking route via Kiyotaki to Arashiyama, a beautiful way to begin a trip through northwestern Kyoto

This is my third day in Kyoto and I found my favorite temple. The grounds here are expansive, exceptionally well maintained and set in the hills. We happen to be staying across the road, but access to it is easy from Kyoto via a couple of city and JR buses to Takao. We took the City Bus 8 which is hourly for the heart of Kyoto without any transfers. What I loved is that it was quiet, peaceful, you felt like it was 300 years ago. No huge crowds, no queues, no tour guides. You could sense how it should be. The building are maintained but still very rustic, again a great sense of what they should look like after hundreds of years. On the day we were there only the Golden Hall was open for entry, unsure if they open other buildings on other days. It is also set in its natural surroundings. I was just telling my son while we were at Nijo-jo Castle that it is ashamed the planners did not buffer temples and castles with even 100 meters of natural space around it when they built the city. That’s not the case here. The only sense of society is a small restaurant at the foot of the entry steps, Suzuri Ishi-tei. (What a gem, I’ll do another review for it. Let’s just say it was great to hike up the entry stairs, take a lunch break, then continue to the temple.)

As of today 19 Nov, the autumn foliage is peak here n best! Do climb up to watch the valley of rivers between 2 forest mountains

Beautiful temple complex just above Takao village! I hiked from Hozukyou station (which is on a bridge over a river between trees, simply stunning!) to Takao. If you like to walk and you have the time, do it! Very nice trail and you walk along the river most of the time. At Jingo-ji, before you go up the stairs to the main temple, swerve to the left to get to the other end of the complex where you can buy 3 kawarake (clay discs) for 200 yen. You throw them off the mountain to keep bad karma away. The colors during autumn are simply stunning!

We visited here on a rainy day and there were not many tourists so it had a very nice atmosphere. Hope to have an opportunity to visit again in a different season next time.☀️

It is an amazing place to visit. l really loved this #temple. lt has an amazing view of the mountain side especially during Momiji season, loved the colours. It is like a painting. Also, if you are lucky enough you could hear Yamabushi San playing an instrument during your visit. It is such a holy place, so peaceful. Definitely one of the must see in #Kyoto.

It's a hike for sure, but it is a worthwhile achievement if you make it to the top of the stairs. In the main area, everything is so big that it feels like you are in the presence of giants. Lovely just to walk around agape at the sight of it all. In early foliage season the mix of colors turned into this beautiful rainbow pattern in my phone's camera. This temple is worth the trip, which seems pretty easy to do by city bus, to get away from the crowds and get a temple with a very different feel from the ones in the city.

Gorgeous temple and grounds. The gardens are lovely and tranquil during sakura season, and the buildings are beautiful examples of Japanese architecture. Definitely pay this place at visit.

Serene Zen Buddhist temple known for its stunning autumn foliage and meticulously maintained gardens. Picturesque landscape of rocks, trees, and a tranquil pond. A visit here provides a peaceful retreat and a glimpse into traditional Japanese aesthetics.

It's definitely worth experiencing this place in the fall! The view of autumn foliage is very beautiful and enchanting. The entry fee is 700¥, and the lighting experience at night will cost 1,000¥.

Autumn trip, was quiet and beautiful. I loved it here.

2400 Yen for 2 people to access the whole temple was quite pricy for a 10 minute walk around. maybe because the leaves havent changed colours yet but it wasnt anything special. But front desk lady was really nice. Nam mou am mi tou fo

It’s so adorable. The gentle moss garden caught my heart. And it’s very calm comparing to nearby Tenryu-ji.

Went there during autumn, when the leaves change color! Emerge in the darkness, illuminated by light, resonate with a mysterious beauty that is different from the daytime 🍁 The beauty of the scenery of red-yellow-orange-green trees is extremely lively and unforgettable! ✨🧚‍♀️ Note: come here at a later time because people tend to line up when the entrance time just opens.

Although small and a 20 minute walk away from the more famous temples near by this place offers a small bit of history as a retreat for aristocratic women. Allowing for them to convert to nunnery and reflect in times where their clans lost power (daughter of Taira no Kiyomori). It’s a special place as most temples have women completely whipped from their memories. Looks wise, I’d suggest coming in the Autumn season as summer is extremely hot.

Paying so much money to see what should be a public Temple is criminal. These places should be free but they milk the tourist to see what is after all a payed for by public donations and unremarkable experience. 1 star is too kind.. People have lost their minds handing over 1200 yen per couple for a place that further begs for money inside.. 👎

A lovingly kept place. The groundskeeper spoke good English and kindly offered to guide us in prayer.

Visited on Jun 8, 2019: Beautiful and quite temple, in this area there are a lot of temples to visit, so take your time and don't rush through. I really enjoyed that day and I spend plenty of time to see everything.

Small, cozy temple with a lovely garden. The remain of the 1000 year old tree reminded visitors the history of the temple. Too bad the shops down the slope outside the temple were all closed as I visited late in the afternoon. Had wanted to try the ice-cream with miso flavor.

It's not bad. Really small. And a nice mossy garden to walk through. But not worth the 20 minutes walk from Sanzen-in unless you're killing time.

While much smaller in scale, this beautiful temple can be reached from Sanzen-in via a pleasant 10-15 minute walk.

Fantastic place where very few tourists venture. Around 90-100 minutes from Kyoto. Reaching it seamless, courtesy Japan public transport 👏🏼🙏🏼. Loved the silence, tranquility and peace it brought to you. No one to push you, rush you or jostle you 😀. Entry fee 500¥. You have to climb a lot but definitely worth it!! A very old shrine, some part of it out of bounds.

Absolutely gorgeous in the summer when the hydrangeas are in full bloom. I was totally blown away as I wasn’t expecting that many hydrangeas. Do note that the walk up to the temple is quite steep, and the temple grounds are also riddled with inclines as it is a mountainous site. Definitely worth visiting as the views are incredible from above.

Visited on Nov 18th, 2023 the leaves have mostly changed into fall colors. Been living in Kyoto for 3 years, I'm tired with crowded spots, this temple is a recommended spot to stay away from crowds. If you're easily hungry, make sure to bring food with you, there are no food stalls/restaurant inside the temple. Vending machine is available on the temple. There is a bus 66 from Higashi muko station to the temple once per hour.

Amazing place with stunning scenery! Great place to go during over populated autumn/spring season in Kyoto. I highly recommend it!! The location isn’t very convenient but that is why there are much much less tourists coming here despite its beauty. Living in Kyoto for over 7 years now, I would definitely choose to bring my friends here even if they only have couple of days in the city. It’s much worth it (I’m not a big fun of crowded places). The temple is big enough that allows you to enjoy about 1 hour or more to explore (there is a walking path with a lovely view of the city, etc.) Even though I came here to see the autumn leaves, this place is also known for beautiful cherry blossoms (as in the famous picture of Kyoto).

One of the best temples in Kansai to see Autumn Leaves and Cherry Blossom. Easy to get to and not overcrowded. It's also very cheap and big! Definitely recommend.

Not very foreigner-friendly as there weren't any English translations of the info boards. They only gave out simple introduction brochures in Chinese and English. The scenery was beautiful, especially the flowers all over the hill. Be prepared to climb a lot of stairs/mountain.

Interesting and sprawling temple out on the middle of no where. Costs 500 yen to enter and it seems as though public transport options seem to be limited. Temple is on a hilly area but if you follow the numbered signs them it's not too bad.

Ticket is 500 Y (3.33$) It is one of the most historically important temples of the Nanzenji. However, you likely just walk around a little bit in its garden and able to enter the temple or hall itself. The garden is beautiful and tiny compare to others. It's part of Nanzenji and is accessible by a subway station nearby.

It’s so beautiful and peaceful, one of the most beautiful gardens I’ve been to. Small, but worth visiting! The lotus flowers are bloomed during the summer time. Go in the morning!

Beautiful place that's blended with nature, not many tourists, quiet and easy to walk around. I highly recommend going on the hike path close by.

Love it here! Not so crowded in weekday, if you r looking to enjoy the beautiful scene, i recommended, not so much for pray

Very nice place to visit. Very beautiful and big Koi fishes in the pound. I recomend visiting this Temple if you are in Kyoto area.

(Trip was made back then on 17 Nov 2022) It comes as no surprise that Kyoto is famed for having numerous spectacular autumn foliage sites. Even Tenjuan Temple, a sub-temple within the famous Nanzen-ji complex, conceals picturesque autumn views behind it’s humble walls Our visit on 17 Nov 2022, was truly an unforgettable experience. The temple was absolutely stunning, with its beautifully maintained gardens that shine brightest in the autumn season. The vibrant reds, oranges, and golds of the leaves created a mesmerizing atmosphere that felt almost magical. In spite of the compound’s relatively small size, amazingly there were numerous scenic spots where one could get lost in and lose track of time from taking in the amazing views. The Hojo garden, with its peaceful pond and surrounding trees, offered an incredible spot to take in the breathtaking colors. It was actually quite crowded even though we came on a weekday. But considering it’s the peak autumn period and a popular autumn site, the large crowd should have been expected.

The Tenjuan garden is one of the most beautiful gardens I have seen. Though small, it is lush and verdant even in winter. The trees reflecting off the still green water are spectacular, and the koi are gorgeous. The paths are well-maintained. While it doesn't take long to walk through, you will want to stay a little longer to enjoy the tranquil views.

1/2025 A beautiful Buddhist temple to visit if you have the time. It's not very big but it's so serene, simple, solemn, and Zen like. It's peaceful and inspiring.

We just loved this garden! The trees are beautiful, but viewing them from the interior of the building through the open shoji adds a very nice element to their beauty. Interestingly, it is the only Japanese garden I have ever been to in which, rather than having the usual water, they created a meandering stream filled with white pebbles. There is even a waterless waterfall!

Such beautiful gardens to stroll through. Slightly off the beaten track, so not too busy. Amazing colours in autumn.

This is a beautiful temple. It's not that crowded, you can take your time enjoying the scenic garden.

In the middle of the garden is a gorgeous meditation hall overlooking the garden, one of the best places for meditation and quiet contemplation I have found to date in Kyoto, provided the other guests are respectful of the tranquility of this place. A treasure.

A must visit in Arayashiyama area. One thing is, Please avoid the toilet

If you want to calm down and watch the autumn leaves, houkyouin temple is the best.

Nice temple to see from the outside, but not worth paying 500 for admission for the one main hall - enjoy it for free on the temple grounds

Beautiful temple, enjoyed the sprawling layout with a number of sub-buildings connected by large overhanging roofs.

Wonderful temple embedded in the greens of the mountainside. A quite place.

Small but atmospheric and beautiful temple featuring some very interesting historical artefacts. Well worth checking out along with the other temples located nearby, especially in autumn when the maple leaves change colour.

Just beautiful, very Zen 🙏

Seemed closed when visited but was still a photogenic place.

Really nice temple and the chief priestess is really sweat. She explained to me a lot of stuff about bouddhism and the significations of the statues. Will go back again

Anraku-ji Temple in Kyoto is a serene gem tucked away amidst the city's historic sites. Renowned for its unique octagonal pagoda, the temple offers a tranquil space for contemplation and exploration. As one of Kyoto's lesser-known treasures, it provides a quiet respite from the more bustling tourist spots, allowing visitors a more intimate experience. Walking through its serene grounds, you're immediately enveloped by the temple's timeless beauty. The meticulously maintained gardens, with their elegant arrangements of flora, create a calming ambiance, while the pagoda stands tall, holding stories from centuries past. Anraku-ji is not just an architectural marvel; it's a spiritual haven. A visit here offers a chance to connect with Japan's rich Buddhist heritage and to find moments of stillness in the heart of Kyoto.

I did not go to all the famous shrines or temples in Kyoto. I avoided places where throngs of tourists walking around taking pictures. I got on my bike early one the morning and headed toward the Philosopher’s Path. The road was quiet, flanked by large cypresses. And there appeared a silent gate, so inviting. I parked my bicycle by the gate and came in. The garden was so peaceful. The main hall small but inviting and warm. No ‘keep out’ sign. No wired mesh to keep whatever or whoever out. I sat outside and breathed in the calm air of the temple. I had stumbled upon the ancient beauty of a Dharma place in Kyoto.

Beautiful Japanese temple in the autumn. Take your time here to refresh your body and mind.

A beautiful garden and a great place to visit if you have time.

Beautiful garden and building with exquisite decorations inside Only able to visit in a limited period, so it'll be better to search online before visiting High school students and younger can be visiting for free And ¥500 for adults

Serene Buddhist temple with a cafe inside. 500 yen to enter. Serene place that isn’t too large