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Gio-ji Temple

Name: Gio-ji Temple
Address: 32 Sagatoriimoto Kozakachō, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8435, Japan
Rating: 4.5

4.5 (200)・Tourist Attraction・Place Of Worship・Point Of Interest・Establishment

Gio-ji Temple in Kyoto is a small but enchanting place known for its lush moss garden and tranquil atmosphere. This hidden gem is tucked away in the Arashiyama district, offering a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle and bustle.

The temple's main feature is its beautiful moss garden, which blankets the ground in vibrant green. Walking through the garden feels like stepping into another world, with the soft, spongy moss underfoot and the gentle sound of leaves rustling in the breeze. The garden is especially stunning in the rainy season when the moss is at its most vibrant.

Gio-ji Temple has a unique history. It was named after Gio, a dancer and lover of the famous warlord Taira no Kiyomori, who later became a nun here. The temple’s small thatched hall contains a statue of Gio and her companions, offering a glimpse into the temple's past.

The surrounding bamboo groves and maple trees add to the serene ambiance, making it a perfect spot for quiet reflection. Visiting Gio-ji Temple provides a sense of calm and connection to nature, making it a must-see for those seeking tranquility and beauty in Kyoto.

Hours:

9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Closed:

New Year

Available:

All year (except New Year)

Minimum Age:

All ages are welcome

Admission Fee:

300 yen (Adult)

100 yen (Children: Primary, junior high school, and high school students)

Hours

Monday: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Thursday: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Friday: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Saturday: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Sunday: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Phone

+81 75-861-3574

Website

www.giouji.or.jp

The area

Address

32 Sagatoriimoto Kozakachō, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8435, Japan

Top ways to experience Gio-ji Temple

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What other travelers are saying about Gio-ji Temple

Visited this beautiful temple during the fall and the red leaves stole the show. The nature surrounding the temple is so beautiful and the colors so vivid that you cannot just stare speechless at all these amazing views.

Andrea Olivato

Nov 30, 2024

Small temple that is very quiet as not many tourist visit this place. Nice atmosphere with the trees and moss coverings. Great place to spend 15/20 min.

Max Mols

Dec 17, 2024

Very calm, tranquil and lovely. My personal favorite temple gardens so far - although I appreciate simple & natural gardens so this was just right for me I arrived at 4:10p — they close at 4:30 — and they said I could stay until 4:50p. I thought this was helpful. I liked having the gardens almost entirely to myself other than the gardener. This however is not the norm, I imagine. It was very quiet and up against the bamboo forest so the sounds here are peaceful. Absolutely worth a visit. Close to Ogura Pond and right next to the preserved street

Olivia Louise

Sep 15, 2024

Giōji temple (祇王寺) is a smaller temple. I'm glad I decided to walk further to come to this temple - very quaint and pretty, famous for its moss garden. Very 世外桃源 (out of this world) feel.

Sharon Tan

Oct 24, 2024

Small, but breathtaking temple in Arashiyama. Their moss garden is the best I have seen and the temple is right next to a bamboo grove. The place feels enchanted, it is a must visit place if you are in Arashiyama.