7 Famous Temples in Kyoto! A guide to scenic spots where you can feel history and beauty

Kyoto is loved by many tourists as a city rich in Japanese traditions and history.

In particular, there are many beautiful temples scattered around, giving visitors peace of mind and emotion.

In this article, we'll take a detailed look at the temples you must visit in Kyoto and delve deeper into their history, charm, and highlights. Please use it to help you plan your trip.

Kinkakuji

Kinkakuji is officially called Rokuon-ji (Rokuon-ji) and is located in Kita Ward, Kyoto City.

Built by Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, the third shogun of the Muromachi shogunate, this temple can be said to be a symbol of Kyoto due to its gorgeous appearance.

In particular, the three-story building with gold leaf fascinates visitors at first sight.

The highlights of Kinkakuji

The highlight of Kinkakuji is, after all, its gorgeous gold pavilion.

The Kinkaku (Shari-den) is composed of different architectural styles, with the upper floor being Zen Buddhism, the middle floor being samurai, and the lower level being a sleeping place, and the beauty of each is fused.

There is a pond in the garden, and the sight of the Golden Pavilion reflected on the surface of the water is truly spectacular. The autumn leaves are especially beautiful and attract visitors.

You can enjoy the seasonal scenery while walking along the garden's walking path.

Access to Kinkakuji

Approximately 40 minutes by bus from Kyoto Station. It's a short walk from the “Kinkakuji-michi” bus stop. Also, there are many other places to see around Kinkakuji, so I recommend taking a walk around the Kitayama area.

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Kiyomizu Temple

Kiyomizu-dera Temple is a historic temple built in 778 and is located in Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City.

Kiyomizu-dera Temple is a popular spot visited by many tourists every year due to its magnificent architecture and spectacular location.

It has been registered as a World Heritage Site and is attracting attention from Japan and abroad.

The highlights of Kiyomizu-dera

The highlight of Kiyomizu-dera Temple is the main stage called the “Shimizu Stage.” You can enjoy a panoramic view of Kyoto city from this stage, and the view is truly spectacular.

In particular, cherry blossoms are beautifully colored in spring and autumn leaves are beautifully colored, so you can enjoy the scenery every season.

Also, Otowa Falls is a spot not to be missed. The water at this waterfall is said to be beneficial for “longevity,” “love fulfillment,” and “academic success,” and many worshipers visit.

Kiyomizu-zaka, the approach to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, is lined with souvenir shops and restaurants, and it's a place you can enjoy just walking.

Access to Kiyomizu Temple

Approximately 15 minutes by bus from Kyoto Station. It is a 10-minute walk from Gojozaka or Kiyomizu-michi bus stops.

The way to Kiyomizu-dera Temple is one of the pleasures, and it's also a good idea to visit it along with nearby tourist spots.

Ryoan-ji

Ryoan-ji Temple is a Zen temple located in Ukyo-ku, Kyoto, and its dry landscape rock garden is particularly famous.

It was founded by Hosokawa Katsumoto in 1450, and then developed with the support of the Muromachi shogunate.

Ryoan-ji's rock garden draws the hearts of visitors with its simple yet profound design.

The highlights of Ryoan-ji Temple

The biggest highlight of Ryoan-ji Temple is the dry landscape rock garden with 15 stones arranged.

This garden is composed of white sand and moss, and the stones are arranged in a perfect balance.

The rock garden gives a different impression depending on the angle you look at it, and you will be drawn into its mystical beauty.

Also, in addition to the rock garden, the garden with beautiful seasonal flowers blooming and the spacious garden centered around the pond are also highlights.

Access to Ryoan-ji Temple

Approximately 30 minutes by bus from Kyoto Station. It is a 5-minute walk from Ryoanji-mae bus stop.

There are other tourist spots scattered around the neighborhood, so you can enjoy it all day long.

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Ginkakuji

Ginkakuji is officially called “Higashiyama Jisho-ji Temple” and is located in Sakyo-ku, Kyoto.

It is known as a contrast to Kinkaku-ji Temple, and is characterized by its tranquil beauty.

Despite not being covered with silver leaf, the origin of the name comes from the contrast with Kinkakuji.

The highlights of Ginkakuji

The highlights of Ginkakuji Temple are its tranquil appearance and beautiful gardens, which symbolize Higashiyama culture.

Ginkaku (Kannon Hall) was built by Ashikaga Yoshimasa and features a simple yet sophisticated design.

In particular, the moss garden and white sand garden are popular places where you can enjoy the beauty of Japanese gardens. You can enjoy the seasonal scenery while strolling through the garden.

Also, there is a Philosopher's Path around Ginkakuji, which is very attractive as a walking path.

Access to Ginkakuji

It is approximately 35 minutes by bus from Kyoto Station. It is a 5-minute walk from Ginkakuji-mae bus stop.

We also recommend taking a walk along with the Philosopher's Path.

Toji Temple

To-ji Temple is a historic temple located in the Minami district of Kyoto and was built along with the transfer of the capital to Heian-kyo.

The official name is “Kyougokokuji (Kyougokuji),” and it is known as the head temple of the Shingon sect.

To-ji Temple is characterized by its magnificent five-story pagoda and vast grounds.

The highlights of To-ji Temple

Toji Temple's five-story pagoda is famous as the tallest wooden pagoda in Japan.

Its height is about 55 meters, and you can also see it from within Kyoto city.

Also, “Kobo City,” which is held on the 21st of every month, is also very busy.

In this city, various stalls with antiques, crafts, food, etc. are lined up to entertain visitors.

It's a particularly popular event for tourists, and you can enjoy interacting with local people.

Access to To-ji Temple

It is 15 minutes on foot or about 5 minutes by bus from Kyoto Station. There are many other places to see around To-ji Temple, so it's a good idea to visit it along with a walk through history.

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Nanzenji

Nanzenji Temple is a Zen temple located in Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, and was built during the Kamakura period.

It features its vast grounds and magnificent three gates. Nanzenji Temple is a prestigious temple located above the Five Mountains, and is also known as a place where many ascetic monks gather.

The highlights of Nanzenji

The three gates of Nanzenji Temple are also called “Tenka Ryumon,” and you can enjoy a panoramic view of Kyoto city from above.

These three gates reach a height of 22 meters, and their majestic appearance overwhelms visitors.

The Suirokaku in the precincts is also a popular spot.

This Suirokaku is a brick aqueduct built in the Meiji period, and its exotic atmosphere captivates visitors.

Furthermore, Nanzenji Temple has many beautiful gardens where you can enjoy the scenery of the four seasons.

Access to Nanzenji

It is approximately 15 minutes by subway from Kyoto Station and 10 minutes by foot from Keage Station.

There are many other famous places around Nanzenji Temple, such as the Philosopher's Path and Eikando, so you can enjoy it all day long.

Ninna-ji

Ninna-ji Temple is located in Ukyo-ku, Kyoto, and was built during the Heian period.

It is the head temple of the Omuro school of the Shingon sect and is famous for Omuro cherry blossoms.

Ninna-ji Temple has a deep relationship with the royal family, and it is known that many members of the royal family served as chief priests.

The highlights of Ninna-ji

The highlight of Ninna-ji Temple is Omuro cherry blossoms blooming in spring. The sight of cherry trees blooming all at once is spectacular, and many cherry blossom viewers visit.

In particular, during the cherry blossom season, many tourists visit and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Also, the main hall and five-story pagoda are spectacular, and you can feel the beauty of traditional Japanese architecture.

Many historic buildings are scattered throughout the vast grounds of Ninna-ji Temple, and there are many discoveries just by strolling around.

Access to Ninna-ji

It is approximately 30 minutes by bus from Kyoto Station. It is a short walk from the Omuro Ninna-ji bus stop.

There are also many famous places around Ninna-ji Temple, such as Arashiyama and Kinkakuji, so it's a good idea to visit them as well.

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Advice on how to enjoy visiting Kyoto's temples

In order to enjoy visiting Kyoto's temples even more, it's a good idea to keep a few points in mind.

Early morning visit

Popular temples are often crowded with tourists, so visiting early in the morning is a great way to spend some quiet time.

CHOOSE SEASON

You can enjoy particularly beautiful scenery during the cherry blossom and fall foliage season. However, crowds are expected, so we recommend visiting on weekdays or early in the morning.

Prepare comfortable walking shoes

When visiting temples, people often move on foot, so it's a good idea to wear shoes that are easy to walk in.

Gathering information in advance

By checking the opening hours of each temple and information on special openings in advance, you can go sightseeing efficiently.

Securing means of transportation

There is plenty of public transportation in Kyoto city, but congestion is expected during the tourist season. It's a good idea to research the means of transportation beforehand and make a plan so that you can move smoothly.

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summary

Kyoto is an attractive tourist destination dotted with many beautiful temples.

By visiting famous places such as Kinkaku-ji Temple, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Ryoan-ji Temple, Ginkaku-ji Temple, To-ji Temple, Nanzenji Temple, and Ninna-ji Temple, you can deeply feel the history and culture of Japan.

Each temple has its own charm, and every time you visit, you'll discover something new.

Enjoy a trip where you can enjoy beautiful scenery and feel peace of mind while touching the traditions and history of Kyoto.

I also recommend a Japanese nail experience in Kyoto!

There are many nail salons in Kyoto, but the point is that it is easy to access, especially for tourists.

In a limited amount of time, it is convenient to choose a salon near the station that is easy to visit in between sightseeing.

In particular, the area around Kyoto Station and downtown areas such as Shijo and Kawaramachi are easily accessible, so I recommend it.

Here are some nail salons that have received high reviews in Kyoto.

Gojo/ “Mani Nail Care Kyoto Store”

It's a 1-minute walk from Gojo Station in Kyoto, perfect for a break between sightseeing.

A nail salon boasting careful service that has received high reviews.

This nail salon also suggests colors that are perfect for your skin tone and preferences.

Not only is the gorgeous design, but the simple coloring and careful hand care are sure to renew your mood.

Please try nail care in Japan.

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Kawaramachi, Karasuma/ “Kawaramachi Sopoca-lon”

Conveniently located a 7-minute walk from Hankyu “Karasuma Station”, this salon is located between Sanjo and Shijo, making it perfect for those who enjoy shopping and tourists.

This is a popular salon for casual yet sophisticated “just the right casual nails.”

Inside the spacious store, the spacious chairs are designed so you won't get tired even if you sit for a long time, and we provide a space where you can relax while receiving careful nail care.

We have a wide selection of attractive nail samples, such as shining colors.

The foot nail service comes with a foot bath, which is also recommended as a treat after sightseeing!

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