What other travelers are saying about Ryoan-ji Temple
This is an amazing place - very ‘Zen’ and a really ‘must see’ when visiting Japan. However, more tourist have this on their Bucket list, so visiting or before 10h00 is advised.
We did so and experienced beauty and serenity. Everyone respected the beauty of the sacred place. The Zen / rock garden is amazing - and the surrounding garden is also very inspiring. We visited in June (rain season) but we were lucky and had a nice sunny Day.
The Rock Garden at Ryoan-ji Temple stands as a pinnacle of garden design in Kyoto, emblematic of the Zen aesthetic that has shaped perceptions of Japanese rock gardens globally. Esteemed for its melding of minimalist beauty and architectural grace, the site has been honored as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, positioning it as an essential destination for anyone exploring Kyoto's rich cultural tapestry.
The interpretation of Ryoan-ji Temple's rock garden has sparked a wide range of theories, reflecting the depth of its cultural and philosophical significance. Some interpretations suggest the garden depicts islands adrift in a vast sea or a mother tiger ferrying her cubs across waters, evoking themes of nature and nurture. Others see it as an embodiment of the Japanese aesthetic principles of wabi, emphasizing simplicity and calm, and sabi, finding beauty in the aged and weathered. Additionally, it is viewed as a manifestation of Zen principles, aiming to capture the essence of contemplation and the infinite. These diverse interpretations highlight the garden's role as a canvas for meditation, allowing each visitor to find personal meaning in its minimalist beauty.
Allocating around 45 minutes to experience Ryoan-ji Temple fully should suffice. Following your visit there, a stroll to Ninnaji is recommended, where spending approximately an hour is ideal. Consider dedicating your morning to exploring both temples to ensure a relaxed schedule. Afterward, going to Arashiyama for lunch and further adventures could round out a well-planned day.
The origins of the temple's garden are shrouded in ambiguity. There are theories suggesting its creation might be attributed to a member of the Hosokawa family, while alternative narratives credit the esteemed monk Sōami for its design.
The Ryoan-ji Temple, also known as the Temple of the Dragon at Peace, in northern Kyoto, initially served as a residential estate before being transformed into the temple it is today. This transformation underscores its historical significance and architectural beauty, making it an essential destination for visitors.
The famous Zen rock garden—beautiful, but a bit underwhelming for me. I expected it to be larger, and the crowd made it hard to quietly enjoy the view. However, the path through the garden is lush and peaceful. Also, the staff were incredibly kind—I had to leave my can of soda at the entrance, and when I came back, they had even wrapped it in plastic to keep it clean. So thoughtful!
We visited 4 of the recommended Temples in the North of Kyoto. This was the second best. It has a large lake, lots of green and the rock garden is nice. In Tokyo none of the Temples we visited had fees but this one and a lot of others in Kyoto have fees. We went around 1-2 pm on a tueseday and it wasnt crowded.
I was able to return to this place after 52 years. I was here when I was a baby and my mom took me there so going back after so long and reconnecting with the Stone garden of Ryoanji was really amazing. Highly recommend this beautiful temple and stone garden as you can enjoy a long beautiful walk in the gardens around it and also the beautiful lake for more food stories check out my YouTube channel Junk Food Japan.
We Visiting Ryōan-ji in the early hours was a truly calming experience. The iconic rock garden, with its minimalist beauty and carefully placed stones, invites quiet reflection. The peaceful surroundings and the stillness of the temple grounds create a meditative atmosphere that stays with you long after you leave. Even with a few other visitors around, it felt tranquil and deeply serene a place where time seems to slow down.
