Seiryo-ji (Sagashakado), Kyoto - A building that has a lot of doors on it
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Seiryo-ji (Sagashakado) Kyoto

4.3
·2k reviews·京都市, Japan

A serene Buddhist temple in Kyoto, offering national treasures and peaceful gardens, a quiet escape near Arashiyama.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Escape the crowds

CrowdLow
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Seiryo-ji (Sagashakado), Kyoto - A building that has a lot of doors on it

Seiryo-ji (Sagashakado) Kyoto

Best Time

Early mornings

Escape the crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene Buddhist temple in Kyoto, offering national treasures and peaceful gardens, a quiet escape near Arashiyama.

4.3
(2k reviews)

"A really cool Temple in a very quiet neighbourhood. The grounds are nice to wonder around."

Vertical photo
TIP

🤫 Quiet Neighborhood Gem

Discover this peaceful temple, a welcome respite from busy Arashiyama spots. :leafy_green:

💰 Admission Fee

Entry is ¥500 per person, granting access to explore the temple buildings and grounds. :moneybag:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Main Temple & Buddha Statue

Main Temple & Buddha Statue

Main Hall

Discover national treasure artifacts and a serene Buddha statue within the historic main hall. Photography is not permitted inside.

Peaceful Garden Walkway

Peaceful Garden Walkway

Rear of Main Hall

Enjoy tranquil garden views and a sense of calm on the walkway behind the main temple building.

Oimatsuri Fire Festival

Oimatsuri Fire Festival

Temple Grounds

Witness the spectacular Oimatsuri fire festival on March 15th, a major Kyoto fire ritual with towering pine torches.

Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds for Serenity

Visit Seiryo-ji early in the morning or late afternoon to experience its tranquil atmosphere. Many travelers find it a peaceful escape, especially after visiting busier Arashiyama spots. Admission is ¥500.

Explore Beyond the Main Hall

While photos aren't allowed inside the main temple, don't miss the chance to wander the grounds, including the rear walkway with garden views. The temple houses national treasure artifacts.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Escape the crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
March 15th
Why
Oimatsuri fire festival
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

How to pray to God in Japanese shrines⛩ #japaneseshrine #japaneseshrine⛩ #JapaneseCulture #にほんご
@nihongo_layla
760K likes • 3.8M views

🤫 Quiet Neighborhood Gem

Discover this peaceful temple, a welcome respite from busy Arashiyama spots. :leafy_green:

💰 Admission Fee

Entry is ¥500 per person, granting access to explore the temple buildings and grounds. :moneybag:

「清凉寺 嵯峨お松明式」 京都市右京区嵯峨 Location: Seiryoji temple, Kyoto, JAPAN ・ 春の到来を告げる「お松明式」が清凉寺で行われ、高さ7mの大松明が夜空に燃え上がりました。 本堂前に逆三角すい形に組んだ大松明3基が設置され、本堂での法要の後、護摩が焚かれました。 降り続いた雨に濡れた松明が、しっかりと着火するのかと思いましたが、そんな心配をよそに炎は激しく燃え上がり、舞い上がる火の粉に参拝者から大きな歓声が上がりました。 この行事は毎年3月15日に釈迦の涅槃会にちなんで行われます。 高さ7メートルの3本の松明に点火し、火勢の強弱でその年の農作物の豊凶を占われる京の三大火祭の一つです。 本堂前では高張提灯13基が立てられます。 @ukyo_fan ・ #嵯峨お松明式 #嵯峨釈迦堂 #Sagashakado #清凉寺 #Seiry...
kyotophotograph
896 likes • 11.3K views
reddit.com

Itinerary to experience as many temples and shrines in one day?

📸 No Photos Inside

Remember, photography is not allowed inside the main temple buildings. :camerawithflash:

🌸 Spring Plum Blossoms

Visit in early spring to enjoy the beautiful plum blossoms on the grounds. :cherry_blossom:

Tips

from all over the internet

🤫 Quiet Neighborhood Gem

Discover this peaceful temple, a welcome respite from busy Arashiyama spots. :leafy_green:

💰 Admission Fee

Entry is ¥500 per person, granting access to explore the temple buildings and grounds. :moneybag:

📸 No Photos Inside

Remember, photography is not allowed inside the main temple buildings. :camerawithflash:

🌸 Spring Plum Blossoms

Visit in early spring to enjoy the beautiful plum blossoms on the grounds. :cherry_blossom:

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Grounds

Allow ample time to wander the complex, including the garden and rear walkway. :walking:

What Travellers Say

4.3
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors adore Seiryo-ji for its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful grounds, often finding it a quiet surprise near Arashiyama. The chance to explore the temple's interior and see national treasures is highly valued, though the no-photography rule inside is noted. It's recommended for those seeking a tranquil cultural experience.

"I adored this place. You do pay an admission fee, ¥500 per person, but you get to explore all of the inside which is just amazing. No pictures allowed on the inside, but we got a few of the outside and the garden"

Michael Alston

"A really cool Templt in a very quite neighbourhood. We found this place on our way to the quieter bamboo forest.

This was a nice surprise as it was incredibly quiet (8:45) and agaain at (9:45) when we came back. The grounds are nice to wonder around, and much quieter than many of the other temples in Kyoto."

antzarmy

"Nice and quiet temple. Good to have such a peaceful place like this after walking around the bamboo forest with so many people around."

Nguyen Lam Vuong

What People Like

Peaceful and tranquil atmosphere
Beautiful gardens and grounds
Access to temple interiors

What People Dislike

No photos inside temple

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Seiryo-ji Temple is located in the Ukyo Ward of Kyoto, near the Arashiyama area. You can reach it by bus from Kyoto Station, typically taking bus routes that stop near the temple. It's also a pleasant walk from some parts of Arashiyama, especially if you're looking for a quieter route away from the main tourist paths. Some visitors find it on their way to or from the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Reddit

Yes, Seiryo-ji Temple is accessible by public transport. Several bus lines serve the area, making it convenient to reach from central Kyoto. Check local bus schedules for the most direct routes to the Seiryoji Temple stop. Reddit

Yes, it's possible to walk to Seiryo-ji from the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. It offers a more peaceful journey compared to the crowded main paths of Arashiyama. The walk can take around 20-30 minutes depending on your starting point within Arashiyama. Reddit

If you're in Arashiyama, consider Seiryo-ji as a quieter alternative or a stop on your way to other attractions. Many visitors stumble upon it and are pleasantly surprised by its tranquility. Reddit

Information on specific parking facilities at Seiryo-ji is limited, but it's generally recommended to use public transportation due to its accessibility and the convenience of navigating Kyoto's public transport system. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The admission fee for Seiryo-ji Temple is ¥500 per person. This fee grants you access to explore the temple buildings, including the main hall, and the surrounding grounds and gardens. Reddit

While the main temple complex has an admission fee, the exterior grounds and surrounding areas might be accessible without charge. However, to fully experience the temple's treasures, the ¥500 admission is recommended. Reddit

Opening hours for Seiryo-ji Temple can vary, but it's generally open during daylight hours. It's advisable to check the most current opening times before your visit, especially if you plan to go early or late. Reddit

Tickets for Seiryo-ji Temple are typically purchased on-site at the entrance. There's usually no need to book in advance, as it's less crowded than some of Kyoto's more famous temples. Reddit

Information on special passes or discounts for Seiryo-ji is not widely advertised. The standard admission fee of ¥500 is generally applied to all visitors. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

No, photography is strictly prohibited inside the main temple buildings at Seiryo-ji. This is common practice in many Japanese temples to protect the sacred artifacts and maintain a respectful atmosphere. Reddit

You can take photos of the temple's exterior architecture, the beautiful landscaped gardens, and the surrounding grounds. The walkway behind the main hall offers lovely views. Reddit

Yes, despite the restrictions inside, the temple's architecture, serene gardens, and the peaceful ambiance provide excellent photo opportunities. The Oimatsuri fire festival is also a highly photogenic event. Instagram

The garden areas and the exterior of the main hall are prime spots for photography. The contrast of the traditional architecture against the natural landscape is quite striking. Instagram

Tripod usage rules can vary, but generally, it's best to avoid them in crowded areas or if they obstruct pathways. For Seiryo-ji, given its peaceful nature, it's likely permissible in designated outdoor areas, but always be mindful of other visitors. Reddit

🎫 🌸 Seasonal Events

The Oimatsuri (Sagashakado Fire Festival) is a significant event held annually on March 15th at Seiryo-ji. It features the lighting of three massive pine torches, each about 7 meters tall, symbolizing the coming of spring and predicting the year's harvest. It's one of Kyoto's three major fire festivals. Instagram

The plum blossoms at Seiryo-ji typically bloom in early spring, around February and March. Visitors in this period can enjoy the beautiful floral displays on the temple grounds. Reddit

While not as famous for autumn colors as some other Kyoto temples, the temple grounds and gardens will likely display beautiful fall foliage in late autumn, offering a serene experience. Reddit

The Oimatsuri is special due to its scale, with towering torches set ablaze, and its cultural significance in predicting the harvest. The spectacle draws large crowds and is a vibrant display of tradition. Instagram

Yes, the Oimatsuri fire festival on March 15th is a major event that attracts a significant number of visitors, making the temple grounds quite crowded. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Seiryo-ji Temple offers a peaceful environment that can be a welcome change of pace for families. While the main temple's no-photography rule might be a challenge for younger children, the expansive grounds and gardens provide space for them to explore. The temple's historical significance can be a gentle introduction to Japanese culture for older children. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to ensure a more relaxed experience. Reddit

Pack light snacks and water, as dining options directly at the temple are limited. The temple's quiet atmosphere is ideal for teaching children about respectful behavior in sacred spaces. If visiting in early spring, the plum blossoms can add an extra element of visual interest for kids. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers Seeking Peace

For solo travelers looking for a tranquil escape, Seiryo-ji is an excellent choice. Its location away from the main tourist thoroughfares means you can often enjoy the temple's beauty with fewer crowds, allowing for personal reflection and a deeper connection with the serene surroundings. Reddit

Take your time to wander through the gardens and appreciate the architectural details. The admission fee is reasonable, and the opportunity to explore the temple's interior (without photos) offers a unique, contemplative experience. It's a perfect spot to recharge and soak in the traditional Japanese atmosphere. Reddit

📸 Photographers

While photography is prohibited inside the main temple, Seiryo-ji offers beautiful exterior shots and garden vistas. The traditional architecture, especially the main hall, provides a classic Japanese aesthetic. The rear walkway offers picturesque views of the landscaped garden, perfect for capturing serene moments. Instagram

For a truly unique photographic opportunity, consider visiting on March 15th for the Oimatsuri Fire Festival. The dramatic spectacle of the towering pine torches ablaze is a photographer's dream, though it will be crowded. Be prepared for low-light conditions and fast-moving action if you aim to capture the festival. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Significance of Seiryo-ji

Seiryo-ji, also known as Sagashakado, is a historic Buddhist temple in Kyoto's Ukyo Ward. Founded in 987, it's renowned for housing national treasure artifacts and for its serene atmosphere, offering a peaceful retreat from the bustling tourist spots in the nearby Arashiyama area. The temple's architecture and landscaped grounds reflect classic Japanese design principles, making it a visually appealing destination. Reddit

One of the most striking aspects of Seiryo-ji is its connection to the Oimatsuri Fire Festival, held annually on March 15th. This vibrant event features the lighting of three massive pine torches, each standing approximately 7 meters tall. The intensity and behavior of the flames are believed to predict the year's harvest, making it a significant cultural and agricultural ritual. This festival is considered one of Kyoto's three major fire festivals and draws considerable attention. Instagram

Visitors often praise Seiryo-ji for its tranquility and the opportunity to explore the temple buildings, which contain valuable historical and religious artifacts. While photography is not permitted inside the main hall, the exterior beauty and the peaceful garden offer ample opportunities for appreciation and reflection. The temple's location makes it a perfect addition to an Arashiyama itinerary for those seeking a quieter, more contemplative experience. Reddit

Experiencing the Oimatsuri Fire Festival

The Oimatsuri Fire Festival at Seiryo-ji Temple is a spectacular event that marks the arrival of spring and offers insights into ancient agricultural traditions. Held every year on March 15th, this festival is a highlight for many visitors who seek unique cultural experiences in Kyoto. The centerpiece of the festival is the lighting of three enormous pine torches, each reaching about 7 meters in height. Instagram

The ritual is deeply symbolic, with the way the torches burn believed to forecast the success of the upcoming harvest. This practice connects the community to the land and its bounty, a tradition that has been passed down through generations. The sheer scale of the torches and the intensity of the flames create a dramatic and memorable spectacle against the night sky. Instagram

Due to its unique nature and cultural significance, the Oimatsuri festival attracts a large number of spectators, making the temple grounds quite crowded on this particular day. If you plan to attend, arriving early is recommended to secure a good viewing spot. It's an excellent opportunity to witness a powerful display of Japanese tradition and community spirit. Instagram

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