What other travelers are saying about Kodai-ji Temple
A gorgeous temple in the old part of Kyoto. As of October 2024, some maintenance and construction work is being completed, but it doesn't distract from the experience. Entry to here plus the nearby Entoku-in temple and Sho Museum is ¥900 for an adult.
In the temple there are some lovely buildings to look around, as well as gardens and even a bamboo forest that is a lot quieter (but a little smaller) than the famous and busy one at Arashiyama. You can spend a decent hour here exploring.
There's also a tea house. Though it's lovely, it's better to go to the one in the Entoku-in, opposite as its a tiny more picturesque over there!
I have visited many different places in my time and this by far was the most memorable and scenic place I have ever been. The bamboo forest was so nice along with all the different shrines and other religious building. The best place to go in Kyoto by far. It was also really quite so walking round was easy and very picture was even more picturesque due to the lack of people !!!!!
This temple was established by the Nene (Dharma name Kodai-in) at the year of 1606 (慶長 11; keichou year 11) to bury and pray for her late Samurai husband; Toyotomi Hideyoshi. It does provide a lot Japanese historical information, and its totally worth the ticket for visiting and understand in depth. The Garden and surrounding temple is well-maintained. The view of The bamboo forest also spectacular and immaculate.
Beautiful surprise! We came tired after totally full touristic Kiyomizudera temple and enjoyed calm nice stroll in the garden + bamboo forest almost alone. There is typical teahouse in the end too. No waiting, no people, pleasant shadow in hot september day. Best temple experience in Kyoto so far, it takes max 10min walk from top sights.
One morning, we explored this area on an invigorating hike, reveling in its sheer beauty. From the intricately crafted shrines and temples to the verdant greenery, it provided a perfect sanctuary to immerse ourselves in nature and escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Several short hiking trails offered diverse experiences, and the convenience of the temple's downtown location allowed us to embark on our adventure directly from the city center. Arriving early proved to be the ideal strategy to enjoy the tranquility before the crowds arrived.
