Although it wasn’t the autumn foliage season, visiting Ryoan-ji on a rainy day in May turned out to be a surprisingly lovely experience.
I wouldn’t say the inside of the temple was my favorite part, but the surrounding outdoor areas were truly charming. Even in the rain, it was a peaceful escape from the busy central areas of Kyoto, offering a more natural and quiet side of the city. The walk up to the temple, and even the walk back to the bus stop, had a very calming atmosphere.
One thing to note: make sure to bring some cash if you plan to buy tickets to visit the indoor temple areas.
Great temple, I had expectations of a larger zen rock garden, but this one was very nice, the atmosphere was great, respectful and quiet. There was plenty of room to sit at the rock garden for viewing. I went on a Friday late afternoon and did not find it crowded. The rest of the grounds are gorgeous too.
A gorgeous temple grounds with a huge pond. A bunch of wildlife and immaculately cared for trees and flowers that line the path surrounding the pond. Truly breathtaking.
The temple is very well cared for and has a nice dry zen garden to peacefully enjoy.
The shop to the right as you enter has incredibly yummy dango and pork buns. A great snack before/after your walk!
Had a very zen experience here at Ryōan-ji. Very beautiful temple with rock garden, the pond and surrounding area with a very calm atmosphere. Whole area covered in deep green moss, giving a very healing and calming energy. The place depicts the beauty of Zen minimalism perfectly and was engineered to cultivate stillness. Would definitely come back again. Cost is 600yen for adult entry.
Ryoanji was everything I hoped it would be—and easily one of my favorite gardens in Kyoto. The famous rock garden is exactly as peaceful and meditative as they say. Fifteen rocks arranged on a bed of white gravel, meant to be viewed from every angle, yet one is always hidden from sight.
Beyond the rock garden, the grounds are beautiful too—a quiet pond, moss-covered paths, and a slow, easy atmosphere that makes you want to stay awhile.
I got there right when it was supposed to open (the hours online), but the ticket window stated a different time ( 30 minutes after the hours online).
