Are there any notable events or festivals held at Heirin-ji Temple?

Yes, the temple hosts traditional Zen Buddhist ceremonies, meditation sessions, and special events during the New Year and autumn foliage season.

Can visitors stay overnight at Heirin-ji Temple?

While Heirin-ji is primarily a training center for monks, it occasionally offers temple stay programs where visitors can experience monastic life.

Is there an entrance fee for visiting Heirin-ji Temple?

Yes, there is a small entrance fee to help maintain the temple and its grounds. This fee supports the preservation of the historic site.

What is the architectural style of Heirin-ji Temple?

The temple features traditional Japanese Zen Buddhist architecture, with wooden structures, tatami-matted rooms, and minimalist designs reflecting Zen aesthetics.

What are the main deities worshiped at Heirin-ji Temple?

The main deity is Shaka Nyorai (Buddha), along with other important figures like Kannon (Goddess of Mercy) and Jizo (protector of children and travelers).

A traditional Japanese wooden gate with a thatched roof stands among vibrant autumn trees with red, orange, and yellow leaves. People are walking through the gate, and sunlight filters through the foliage.

People walk along a tree-lined path in a park during autumn. Vibrant red, orange, and yellow leaves decorate the trees under a bright, sunny sky. The ground is covered with gravel, and wooden posts line the path.

A sunlit forest path lined with wooden posts winds through tall trees with lush green leaves and scattered fallen leaves on the ground. Light filters through the canopy, creating a peaceful, inviting atmosphere.

A narrow stone path lined with mossy stone lanterns stretches into the distance, surrounded by tall trees and greenery in a peaceful outdoor setting.

A traditional Japanese wooden building with a thatched roof stands behind a vibrant red maple tree in autumn, while several people walk and gather near the entrance.

Saitama

Heirin-ji Temple

4.2 (1116)Buddhist TemplePlace Of WorshipAssociation Or OrganizationPoint Of InterestEstablishment

Last updated May 24, 2026

Heirin-ji Temple in Saitama is a peaceful Buddhist temple with a long history. Founded in 1375 by Lord Takagi, Heirin-ji Temple has survived many eras. It's part of the Rinzai school of Zen Buddhism, known for its meditation practices. The temple is surrounded by tall cedar trees, creating a calm and tranquil atmosphere.

Inside, you’ll find traditional wooden buildings, a beautiful Zen garden, and a pond. The main hall holds statues of Buddha and other figures important to the temple's history. There's also a pagoda, which is a tower-like structure often used to house relics.

Heirin-ji is not just a place for worship but also for learning. Monks live and train here, practicing Zen meditation and other rituals. Visitors can sometimes join in the meditation sessions, experiencing a bit of the monk's daily lives.

The temple is magnificent in autumn when the leaves change color, attracting many visitors. It’s a place where history, nature, and spirituality come together, offering a quiet escape from the busy modern world.

Hours

Sunday: 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM

Monday: 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM

Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM

Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM

Thursday: 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM

Friday: 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM

Saturday: 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM

Website

www.heirinji.or.jp

Overview

Address

3-chōme-1-1 Nobitome, Niiza, Saitama 352-0011, Japan

Hours

Sunday: 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM

Monday: 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM

Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM

Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM

Thursday: 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM

Friday: 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM

Saturday: 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM

Website

www.heirinji.or.jp

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Traveler reviews

Went there on December 4th. First up as another review mentioned, the main temple is closed to the public and Goshuin are suspended until beginning of March 2026, but the 500¥ are worth it nonetheless! You could actually see the main temple and hear the monks praying. The colors are mesmerizing, there aren't many tourists, which was amazing as well. You could walk through the area freely and really enjoy a temple for a change. Would totally recommend the trip!

Angelina S.

Dec 5, 2025

Went here last December 2024 to enjoy the autumn leaves and it didn't disappoint. It was really beautiful. After paying for the entrance, you can freely walk around inside. The place was very spacious but there were still alot of closed areas. If you love nature, you will definitely enjoy this place. Loved the silence and the view. Just take note that you can't eat inside so there are no food stalls inside. A great place to stroll and enjoy nature.

Visited today (late November 2022) and it was so worth-it having strolled around the complex in the afternoon. Many people came to see the leaves around probably because it's weekend, so I thought it's much better to see this on a weekday, if possible. The place seems to be kid-friendly as well and WCs are available within the area. The admission fee is ¥500 for adult. Some areas are off-limits, but it's shown anyway on the map provided at the entrance. It won't take much time to see the whole place, so you could take your time to walk. Benches are also visibly available under shaded areas, should you need to take a rest. Don't forget your lenses and cameras! 📷

nice park, beautiful Zen temple, impressive graveyard

Very old temple surrounded by maple trees. It's an hidden gem, not known to many tourists. It's very calm as it is away from the city. It takes about an hour to walk around the temple. Recommended to visit during Autumn season. Easily accessible by bus.