What other travelers are saying about Eikando Zenrin-ji
Visiting Eikan-dō 永観堂 in Kyoto was a truly memorable experience. The temple grounds are spacious and beautifully arranged, and every step feels like walking into a quiet painting. The pathways, trees, moss, ponds, and traditional buildings all blend so well together that you naturally slow down and enjoy each moment.
The scenery changes beautifully with the seasons, but Eikan-dō is especially famous for its autumn colors. When the leaves turn deep red and golden orange, the entire temple looks almost unreal—like a landscape painting brought to life. Even in other seasons, the subtle greens and soft natural light give the gardens a peaceful charm.
One of the most enjoyable moments was simply standing still and looking at the reflections in the pond; the scene looks perfectly composed, as if nature and architecture were designed together from the beginning. There are many viewpoints where you feel like the scenery in front of you could be framed as art.
Walking around Eikan-dō gives a calm feeling and allows you to appreciate not only the beauty of the temple itself but also the atmosphere of traditional Kyoto. It’s a place where nature, culture, and quietness all come together in a very harmonious way. I felt like I was looking at paintings everywhere I turned, and the experience stays beautifully in your memory even after leaving. 🌿✨
Awesome Autumn colour today at this beautiful ancient temple complex.
Truly everywhere I turned there was an exquisite view to enjoy. I arrived on a perfect blue sky morning at about 9am, as it opened .. I spent 4 hours taking the whole vibe in, from the gardens to Pagoda and through the temple. There was time to sit and enjoy…
Today Japanese & locals were out in force enjoying Autumn so artfully displayed in nature at Eikando-ji
Not to be missed…
Got here earlier in the morning and would suggest doing the same. Hardly anyone else was there but as we were leaving it definitely was starting to get a crowd.
But an amazing temple which was extremely peaceful and beautiful to walk through! Had some amazing ponds and gardens!!
Honestly one of my favorite temples I’ve visited in Japan! Would 💯% recommend!!
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.
I visited a year ago in early November during the daytime, and it was so beautiful and peaceful that I came back this year late November to experience it at night during the illuminated fall festival. The foliage was incredible both times, and I loved the serene atmosphere and the stunning garden.
Eikando Temple, established in the 9th century by Shinjo, a disciple of Kukai (Kobo Daishi), was initially built on its present location and named "Zenrin-ji," or "Temple in a Calm Grove," by Emperor Seiwa in 863 AD.
Eikando, originally a temple of the Shingon sect's Esoteric Buddhism and a proponent of the Sanron sect's Pure Land teachings, transitioned to the Jodo sect after 1224.
The admission fee is 600 yen for adults.
The nearest subway station is 15-20 minutes from Eikando Zenrin-ji.
Eikando Zenrin-ji, or Eikando Temple, is the principal temple of the Seizan branch of Japan's Jōdo-shū sect in Kyoto.
