What other travelers are saying about Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple
Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple is a quiet and atmospheric place, known for its rows of stone statues and its peaceful, slightly mystical feeling. Walking through the temple grounds feels very reflective and calm.
I visited in December, and there were very few people, which made the experience even more special. The bamboo path inside the temple, although short, is very beautiful, and unlike the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, you can actually take photos without crowds around.
I stopped here while walking downhill from Otagi Nenbutsu-ji toward Arashiyama, which makes it a perfect addition to that route. It’s not a place you need a lot of time for, but it’s definitely worth the stop if you enjoy quieter temples away from the crowds.
Highly recommended for a peaceful break while exploring the Arashiyama area.
More about Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple from our blog
Frequently Asked Questions
You can reach the temple via Keifuku Railway Arashiyama Station or JR Arashiyama Station, followed by a 20-30-minute walk. Alternatively, buses 62, 64, 72, or 94 from the Hankyu Arashiyama Station bus terminal will drop you at the "Toriimoto" bus stop close to the temple.
The temple hosts the Sento Kuyo ceremony, featuring over a thousand candles illuminating the grounds and statues. This event, held annually from August 23 to 25, pays homage to the spirits of ancestors.
While the temple offers a tranquil beauty year-round, visiting during autumn allows you to experience the mesmerizing blend of the statues set against the vibrant autumn leaves.
Yes, photography is allowed at Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple, making it a popular location for capturing the serene beauty of the statues and the surrounding nature. However, visitors are encouraged to be respectful and mindful when taking photos, especially during events and ceremonies.
The Arashiyama area around Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple is rich in scenic beauty and cultural sites. Visitors can explore the Sagano Bamboo Grove, visit temples such as Otagi Nenbutsu-ji, and enjoy the views from the Togetsukyo Bridge. Arashiyama also offers a range of dining options and traditional shops.
Wanted to visit a bamboo forest without the crowd. Arrived before they opened at 9 and had free range of the place without any guests for a few minutes. It was the first time my entire trip that I haven’t felt crowded while visiting a popular attraction. Walked through town to the monkey park after but I really liked how quiet and quaint it was at Adashino.
Nice temple with nice people in a breathtaking spot. Not crowded so you can hear the sound of nature when you walk around. The bamboo forest is small but much nicer than the one everyone goes to because it's not overcrowded. By far my favorite spot in Japan which I would have missed wasn't it for a kind volunteer mentioning this at a bus stop. A must visit.
Adashino Nenbutsu-ji was one of the most unique temples we visited in Kyoto.
Thousands of stone statues everywhere, a quiet atmosphere, and almost no crowd compared to the big tourist spots.
The bamboo path inside the temple grounds is short but beautiful, and the whole place feels peaceful and very different from the usual temples.
If you want a calm stop with real Kyoto vibes, this one is absolutely worth it.
I was fortunate to visit this temple. It wasn’t crowded with tourists. I came around 3–4 PM, and the atmosphere was peaceful. The ancient beauty of the place, with many stone statues and moss-covered rocks, truly reflected the charm of time.
I got to know that it’s believed the approximately 8,000 stone images and pagodas here commemorate the souls of those who died without kin. The area has been used as a place for funerary rites since ancient times, when bodies were left to the elements. Later, bodies came to be buried, and stone images were placed to honor the dead. Many of the images were scattered and buried throughout the area.
