Tenryu-ji Temple (Ukyo Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture)
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Tenryuji Temple is the head temple of the Tenryuji branch of the Rinzai sect of Buddhism, founded in 1339 (the second year of the Rakuo era) during the Muromachi period. It was built by Ashikaga Takauji to console the spirit of Emperor Godaigo. It is also registered as a component of the World Heritage Site "Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto." The "Sogenchi Garden," centered around the Sogenchi Pond, is considered an Enshu-style garden and is said to have been designed by Muso Soseki. It features a magnificent view that incorporates the borrowed scenery of Arashiyama (using Mount Hiei, Mount Atago, and other mountains). It is a place where the nature of the four seasons harmonizes with the tranquility of Zen, and is also known as a famous spot for cherry blossoms, fresh greenery, and autumn leaves.
Highlights
- Sogenchi Garden: A strolling garden with a pond. The scenery changes with the seasons, and you can enjoy a philosophical silence while walking around the garden.
- Main Hall (Hearing Hall and Abbot's Chamber) and Sliding Door Paintings: You can view historical buildings and sliding door paintings (exhibitions and public viewing status vary depending on the season).
- Borrowed scenery of Arashiyama seen through the garden: The harmony of the mountain range and pond seen from the garden is a view unique to Tenryu-ji Temple.
- Seasonal scenery from winter to spring and autumn: Cherry blossoms, fresh greenery, and autumn leaves are all worth seeing. The autumn foliage season is especially spectacular.
- Atmosphere of the approach and grounds: The moss garden, old trees, and the atmosphere of the approach are perfect for taking photos and strolling.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Address: 68, Munonobabacho, Sagatenryuji, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture (Please check the actual address before using)
- Nearest station:
- JR Sagano Line (San'in Main Line) "Saga-Arashiyama Station" → Approx. 10-minute walk
- Hankyu Railway "Arashiyama Station" → 15 minutes walk
- Keifuku Electric Railway (Arashiyama Line) "Arashiyama Station" → About 5-10 minutes walk
- From Kyoto Station: Take the JR Sagano Line to Saga-Arashiyama Station (rapid trains available), which is about 15 minutes away, or walk from the station.
- Bus: Kyoto City Bus and Kyoto Bus go to Arashiyama. However, the roads are often congested, so it is more convenient to use the train.
- Parking: There are paid parking lots in the area, but they are limited in number and tend to fill up, especially during peak tourist season. We recommend using public transportation.
- Note: Tenryuji Temple is located in the heart of the Arashiyama area, within walking distance of Togetsukyo Bridge and the bamboo forest.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Tenryu-ji Temple (visiting the garden and main hall): Approximately 45 minutes to 1.5 hours
- Surrounding area (including the bamboo forest, Togetsukyo Bridge, and sightseeing tours): A total of 2-3 hours of walking is recommended
- If you want to take your time to look around, take photos, and enjoy the seasonal scenery, you should allow at least two hours.
Nearby spots
- Arashiyama Bamboo Grove (Bamboo Forest Path) — Accessible on foot from Tenryuji Temple. Early in the morning is recommended as it is less crowded.
- Togetsukyo Bridge — Arashiyama's iconic scenic spot, perfect for strolling and enjoying the riverside scenery.
- Daikakuji Temple, Jojakkoji Temple, Gio-ji Temple, and Hogon-in Temple — famous temples dot the Saga and Arashiyama area.
- Souvenir shops and restaurants around Arashiyama and Tenryuji Temple - Enjoy Kyoto cuisine such as udon and yudofu.
- Sagano Scenic Railway (Trolley Train) - A tourist train that allows you to enjoy the scenery of the Hozugawa Valley (can get crowded depending on the season).
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: It gets very crowded during cherry blossom season (late March to early April), autumn foliage season (mid- to late November), Golden Week, and weekends. Early morning visits are less crowded.
- Opening hours and admission fees: Opening hours and admission fees for buildings and gardens may change depending on the season or special openings, so please check the official website or local information in advance.
- Photography: Photography is permitted in the garden, but there are some areas where photography is prohibited, such as inside the main hall and on the sliding screen paintings. Please follow the signs.
- Dress code and etiquette: This is a quiet religious facility. Please refrain from talking loudly, eating and drinking, and be considerate of other worshippers.
- Footing: The gardens are paved with cobblestones, gravel, and uneven surfaces, which can be slippery in rainy weather. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. Some routes may be difficult for wheelchairs and strollers.
- Nearby roads: The Arashiyama area has narrow roads and streets with many pedestrians, so caution is required when driving or cycling.
- What to bring: Please allow yourself plenty of time as there may be long lines at the ticket counter during busy times. Bring drinks, a parasol, and appropriate clothing for the cold and heat depending on the season.
Finally, Tenryu-ji Temple is one of Kyoto's most famous Zen temples, and its greatest appeal lies in the tranquil scenery created by its gardens and borrowed scenery. While there are many seasonal attractions, it can get crowded, so be sure to plan your visit carefully, taking into account the time of day and the season.
(*Opening times, admission fees, official contact information, etc. may change, so please check the Tenryuji Temple official website or tourist information in advance for the latest information.)
