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Tenryu-ji Temple

Name: Tenryu-ji Temple
Address: Japan, 〒616-8385 京都府京都市右京区嵯峨天龍寺芒ノ馬場町６８
Rating: 4.4

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

Tenryu-ji Temple is a historic site in Kyoto known for its scenic beauty and deep cultural significance. Established in 1339, this temple serves as the head temple of the Tenryu branch of Rinzai Zen Buddhism. Its origins are tied to the shogun Ashikaga Takauji, who dedicated it to Emperor Go-Daigo, reflecting a rich historical narrative.

Tenryu-ji Temple is renowned for its garden, which was designed by the famous Zen master and garden designer Muso Soseki. This garden is a masterpiece of Japanese landscape design, featuring a central pond surrounded by rocks, pine trees, and mountain views, integrating the natural surroundings of Arashiyama.

Tenryu-ji has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, highlighting its global cultural importance. Visitors are drawn to its well-preserved architecture and the tranquil atmosphere of its grounds.

Over the centuries, despite suffering from fires, the temple has been meticulously restored, maintaining its historical integrity and aesthetic values. This resilience makes Tenryu-ji a symbol of endurance and devotion, offering insights into the spiritual and artistic heritage of Japan.

Hours:

8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

*Last admission 4:50 PM

Closed:

October 29 and 30th

Available:

All year (except October 29 and 30th)

Minimum Age:

All ages are welcome

Admission Fee:

500 yen (High school students and older)

300 yen (Elementary and middle school students)

Free (Preschool children)

Hours

Monday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Wednesday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Thursday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Friday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Saturday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Sunday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Phone

+81 75-881-1235

Website

www.tenryuji.com

The area

Address

Japan, 〒616-8385 京都府京都市右京区嵯峨天龍寺芒ノ馬場町６８

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What other travelers are saying about Tenryu-ji Temple

Both the temple hall and the garden are pretty much well maintained, it's totally worth it if you visit both, especially during the rainy day. In the hall, there will be a Japanese style room to stay and relax yourself by looking and staring to the pond and green. Luckily, that day wasn't too crowded as it might be due to a rainy day. Otherwise , the hall might be overcrowded and hardly move around as the hall space is limited. PS: The entrance fee of the temple hall and the garden counts separately , total 800 yen for both places.

Gavin Choy

Oct 14, 2024

One of the several UNESCO World Heritage sites in Kyoto. Stunning Zen garden and historical significance. The temple blends traditional architecture with serene landscapes, featuring a pond, meticulously raked gravel, and lush greenery. The views of the Arashiyama mountains are gorgeous and enhance the experience.

J • B •

Jul 20, 2024

Very gorgeous! There was light drizzling when we visited and it was so nice walking around the temple premises with our umbrellas and nearby the small lake. This was a perfect stroll after our heavy lunch. Do visit! I recommend this place

Sujay Sreekumar

Aug 17, 2024

Beautiful gardens. Magnificent bamboo forest but a lot of people on narrow trails. One steep grade and many steps.

Jeff Cordeiro

Nov 2, 2024

Tenryu-ji, the world heritage site was built in 1345, being rank No.1 of the five mountains in Kyoto. It is not quite a traditional temples for prayers but Zen flower gardens for relax and meditation. There are many great spots for photos. Highly recommend !