What other travelers are saying about Zenrinji (Eikando) Temple
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!!
Frequently asked questions
Eikando has a rich history dating back to the Heian period. It's known for its unique architectural style and its collection of cultural assets, including important Buddhist statues and art.
The best time to visit is during the autumn when the temple's extensive maple trees turn vibrant shades of red and yellow, creating breathtaking scenery. However, the temple is also beautiful in other seasons, especially in spring when the cherry blossoms bloom.
Yes, there is an entrance fee for visiting Eikando Temple. The fee is typically around 600 yen for adults, but this can vary during special exhibitions or events.
Photography is allowed on the temple grounds, but it may be restricted inside certain buildings or during special exhibitions. Always look for signs or ask staff if unsure.
Visitors can reach the temple by bus from Kyoto Station, getting off at the Nanzenji-Eikando-michi stop. It's also within walking distance from the Keage Station on the Tozai Subway Line.
Here is a very representative temple in Kyoto. Its architectural style is unique, but unfortunately, there are many visitors, making it difficult to quietly and thoroughly appreciate every detail. Many people are taking photos, and some even climb over the barriers to strike strange poses for the photographers, which disrupts the tranquility that the temple should have. I hope the temple can implement a reservation system and limit the number of visitors, so that each tourist's experience can be improved, and it will be more conducive for those who truly love temple culture to come and enjoy the visit.
Big beautiful temple, slightly off the beaten path.
Take your time here, and plan for plenty of stairs as it's built on a mountain side.
Please follow the rules and be polite. This is a place of worship. No pictures or videos inside buildings. There is plenty of gorgeous places to record.
Also if you go to the pagoda be prepped for a ton of stairs.
And after the interior section, be sure to stroll through the lovely garden and ponds.
One of my favorite temple in Kyoto. The hill oversees the city of Kyoto. The architecture of this temple complex is also unique in nature. Very crowded during the maple seasons.
It was a hot summer day and the temple felt fresh with greeneries around it. Beautiful place to visit and enjoy the garden or mesmerized by the traditional wooden architecture. Definitely one of a must-visit to escape from the bustling city.
P.s. sadly, when I was there, a lot of other tourists were being annoying and disrespectful by talking loudly, letting their kids running around, or even violating the rules by taking pictures of the inside part of the rooms where there is already a sign to not taking picture 🥺
