What other travelers are saying about Heirin-ji Temple
Visited today (late November 2022) and it was so worth-it having strolled around the complex in the afternoon. Many people came to see the leaves around probably because it's weekend, so I thought it's much better to see this on a weekday, if possible. The place seems to be kid-friendly as well and WCs are available within the area. The admission fee is ¥500 for adult. Some areas are off-limits, but it's shown anyway on the map provided at the entrance. It won't take much time to see the whole place, so you could take your time to walk. Benches are also visibly available under shaded areas, should you need to take a rest. Don't forget your lenses and cameras! 📷
A relatively unknown shrine just outside Tokyo, in Niiza, Saitama, Heirinji is a gem in any season. The woods are quite extensive, and the buildings are charming. Autumn leaves are very pretty if you’re lucky enough to visit at the right timing. There is a car park across the street, and a number of buses that go past.
The people running this place are very selfish. The wooded area is very large but they allow you only to walk around a very the small section of it. In addition, although it is not busy, they don’t allow you to leave to your car and return without paying again. Very very selfish. Very very Japanese.
Very old temple surrounded by maple trees. It's an hidden gem, not known to many tourists. It's very calm as it is away from the city. It takes about an hour to walk around the temple. Recommended to visit during Autumn season. Easily accessible by bus.
