Tenryu-ji, Kyoto
A UNESCO World Heritage Zen temple in Arashiyama, Kyoto, renowned for its breathtaking Sogenchi Garden and serene atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds, find peace
Tenryu-ji, Kyoto
Best Time
Beat the crowds, find peace
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A UNESCO World Heritage Zen temple in Arashiyama, Kyoto, renowned for its breathtaking Sogenchi Garden and serene atmosphere.
"The garden is spectacular! One of the best in Kyoto with a mix of pine tree and deciduous trees."
🎯 Arrive Before 9 AM
Experience the serene gardens with fewer people. Essential for that peaceful vibe!
💰 Garden-Only Ticket
Save money by just visiting the stunning gardens; the buildings are optional.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sogenchi Garden
Main Garden Area
A breathtaking Zen garden with a central pond, designed to evoke paradise. Stunning year-round.
Temple Buildings
Main Temple Complex
Impressive wooden structures offering a glimpse into Zen Buddhist architecture and history.
Shigetsu Restaurant
Within Temple Grounds
Experience authentic Zen Buddhist vegetarian cuisine (shojin ryori). Reservations recommended.
Planning Your Visit
Arrive Early for Serenity
Garden vs. Temple Buildings
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Before 9 AM
Experience the serene gardens with fewer people. Essential for that peaceful vibe!
💰 Garden-Only Ticket
Save money by just visiting the stunning gardens; the buildings are optional.
🍽️ Book Shigetsu Ahead
Zen vegetarian dining is popular! Reserve your spot at Shigetsu restaurant.
🚶♀️ Mostly Flat Paths
The garden paths are largely flat, with some gentle inclines. Accessible for most.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Before 9 AM
Experience the serene gardens with fewer people. Essential for that peaceful vibe!
💰 Garden-Only Ticket
Save money by just visiting the stunning gardens; the buildings are optional.
🍽️ Book Shigetsu Ahead
Zen vegetarian dining is popular! Reserve your spot at Shigetsu restaurant.
🚶♀️ Mostly Flat Paths
The garden paths are largely flat, with some gentle inclines. Accessible for most.
🚗 Consider a Taxi
Uber/taxi from Kyoto Station can be faster than trains if you're running late.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Tenryu-ji is widely praised for its stunning Sogenchi Garden, offering a tranquil escape with beautiful landscapes and Zen aesthetics. While the temple buildings are architecturally significant, many visitors find the garden alone to be worth the admission. Some note that cash payment is preferred and recommend booking the popular Shigetsu restaurant in advance.
"Stunning temple. The gardens are beautiful and I would definitely recommend doing them!!! However I would not pay the extra to go in the actual temple as it really just is what you can see from the outside and you can get the appreciation of all of it from the gardens too!!!
Very tranquil, very peaceful. Clean toilets.
Tickets to be payed for in cash"
Karina O'Flynn
"Beautiful gardens! Note that you have to pay a separate fee to enter the buildings. We did not, but we still had a great time exploring the grounds. Little aspects of the garden felt very charming and special. Can become a bit crowded with tourists and school groups during peak season, but not too bad. Highly recommend a visit!"
Maggie Kiara
"This is a must see in Arashiyama!! The ticket is 800Y (5.32$) for both temple and Garden. However, I only visited the garden which is 500Y (3.33$).
The garden in this temple is spectacular! It's one of the best in Kyoto with a mix of pine tree and deciduous trees. I imagine how beautiful that would be in Autumn. I visited there on 1 August 2025.
There are at a few train/tram stations nearby."
NIN Kongnav
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Tenryu-ji is located in the Arashiyama district. You can reach it via the JR Sagano Line to Saga-Arashiyama Station, or the Keifuku Randen Tram to Arashiyama Station. Many visitors also find taking a taxi or Uber from Kyoto Station to be a convenient, albeit more expensive, option, especially if you're short on time.
Yes, Tenryu-ji is well-served by public transport. The closest train stations are Saga-Arashiyama Station (JR) and Arashiyama Station (Keifuku Randen Tram). From these stations, it's a short walk to the temple.
Renting an electric bicycle is a popular and efficient way to explore Arashiyama and reach Tenryu-ji, especially if you plan to visit other nearby attractions.
The most common public transport route is the JR Sagano Line to Saga-Arashiyama Station. Alternatively, a taxi or Uber can offer a direct and faster journey, though it will be more costly.
While Tenryu-ji itself has entrance fees for its main attractions, the surrounding Arashiyama area offers free sights like the Togetsukyo Bridge and parts of the Bamboo Grove. However, the core beauty of Tenryu-ji is within its paid sections.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entrance to the Sogenchi Garden costs 500 yen. An additional 300 yen is required to enter the temple buildings. Many visitors opt for the garden-only ticket.
Tickets can typically be purchased on-site. However, for the Shigetsu restaurant, reservations are highly recommended as they can fill up quickly.
Tenryu-ji is generally open from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last entry usually around 4:30 PM. It's always a good idea to check the official website for the most current hours.
It's advisable to carry cash, as some sources indicate that tickets may need to be paid for in cash.
Yes, there is a separate fee for the Sogenchi Garden (500 yen) and an additional fee for the temple buildings (300 yen).
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main attractions are the stunning Sogenchi Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the impressive Zen temple buildings. The garden offers beautiful landscapes with a central pond and surrounding flora.
The temple grounds have accessible parking. While the garden paths are mostly flat, some areas may have winding paths with gentle inclines. The main temple buildings have some steps.
Take your time to wander through the Sogenchi Garden, find a bench to sit and reflect, and appreciate the meticulously designed landscape. The garden is particularly beautiful in autumn.
Yes, washrooms are available within the temple grounds for visitors' convenience.
Most visitors spend 1-2 hours exploring the gardens and temple buildings. If you plan to dine at Shigetsu, allow extra time for the meal.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Tenryu-ji features Shigetsu, a restaurant serving traditional Zen Buddhist vegetarian cuisine (shojin ryori). Reservations are highly recommended.
Shigetsu serves shojin ryori, which is inherently vegetarian and often vegan-friendly. It's best to confirm vegan options when making your reservation.
Absolutely. Shigetsu is very popular, and reservations are strongly advised to avoid disappointment.
Shigetsu offers exquisite Zen Buddhist vegetarian cuisine, known for its delicate flavors and artistic presentation. It's considered a unique culinary experience.
The Arashiyama area has numerous restaurants and cafes offering various Japanese cuisines. However, Shigetsu provides a unique temple dining experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The Sogenchi Garden, with its pond and meticulously arranged scenery, offers numerous picturesque angles. The temple buildings against the garden backdrop are also excellent subjects.
Photography rules can vary, but generally, photography is permitted in the gardens. It's best to look for signage or ask staff regarding restrictions inside the temple buildings.
Early morning, right after opening, is ideal for capturing the serene beauty of the gardens without a lot of people in your shots.
Drone usage is typically prohibited at temples and historical sites in Japan to preserve the atmosphere and prevent disturbance. Always check local regulations.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is great for capturing both wide garden vistas and architectural details. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections on the pond.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting early in the morning to avoid the biggest crowds and allow children to enjoy the space more freely. Pack some snacks and water, as dining options within the temple are limited to Shigetsu, which might be a more formal experience than some families prefer. The nearby Arashiyama area also offers other attractions like the Bamboo Grove, which can be combined for a fuller day out.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with other free or low-cost attractions in Arashiyama, such as walking through the Bamboo Grove or crossing the Togetsukyo Bridge. For transportation, utilize the Keifuku Randen Tram or JR Sagano Line, which are generally more affordable than taxis.
🧘 Solo Travelers & Spiritual Seekers
Consider booking a meal at Shigetsu for an immersive Zen dining experience, or simply spend ample time wandering the garden paths. The temple's history as a prominent Zen institution adds to its spiritual atmosphere, providing a serene escape from the bustling city.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of the Sogenchi Garden
Key elements include the carefully pruned pines, the serene pond, and the distant mountain backdrop. The garden's design is a masterclass in Zen aesthetics, aiming to evoke a sense of paradise on earth. It's a place where every element is thoughtfully placed to create harmony and balance. Many visitors recommend taking your time here, finding a bench, and simply soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.
While the garden is beautiful year-round, it's particularly spectacular in autumn when the leaves turn vibrant shades of red and gold, and in spring with the fresh greenery. The design ensures that there's always something visually appealing, regardless of the season.
Exploring the Temple Buildings
Inside the Hojo, you can often find beautiful fusuma paintings (sliding door paintings) that complement the serene atmosphere. These artworks are a significant part of the temple's cultural value. The buildings are typically constructed with large wooden beams and feature tatami mat flooring, creating a distinct sense of calm and reverence.
It's worth noting that there's an additional fee to enter the temple buildings. While the gardens are universally praised, the decision to enter the buildings often depends on your interest in architectural history and traditional Japanese art. Many visitors find the experience rewarding, offering a different perspective on the temple's overall significance.
Shigetsu: A Taste of Zen Cuisine
Shigetsu offers a set course menu that changes with the seasons. Expect a beautifully arranged array of small dishes, each a testament to the chef's skill and the principles of mindful eating. It's a chance to savor delicate flavors and appreciate the simplicity and elegance of vegetarian Japanese cooking. Reservations are highly recommended, as the restaurant is quite popular among both locals and tourists seeking an authentic experience.
Dining at Shigetsu provides a peaceful interlude within your temple visit. It's an opportunity to connect with the spiritual aspect of Tenryu-ji through its food. Even if you're not vegetarian, many visitors find the cuisine surprisingly delicious and impressive, offering a different perspective on Japanese food culture.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit