Tenryu-ji Temple

Located in the scenic Arashiyama district of Kyoto, Tenryu-ji Temple (天龍寺) is one of Japan’s most important Zen Buddhist temples and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Due to its picturesque gardens, stunning architecture, and serene atmosphere, this Zen Buddhist temple is an essential stop on any tour of Kyoto. This guide provides essential information on opening hours, ticket prices, transportation, must-see attractions, and nearby sights to help you plan an enriching visit.

 

 

 

Visiting Information

Location: 68 Sagatenryuji Susukinobabacho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, Japan. It is situated near the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, making it easy to combine visits to both sites in a single day.

 

Opening Hours:  

• March to November: 8:30 AM 5:30 PM
• December to February: 8:30 AM 5:00 PM

(Note that hours may vary slightly depending on the season.)  

 

Admission Fee:  

• Main Temple (including garden): ¥500 for adults  
• Bamboo Grove and other areas may have separate charges depending on seasonal exhibitions or special events.  

 

Official website: https://www.tenryuji.com/en/

Duration: 1-2 hours.

 

The History and Cultural Significance of Tenryu-ji

Founded in 1339 by Ashikaga Takauji, the first shogun of the Ashikaga Shogunate, Tenryu-ji was originally established as a place of worship for the founder’s late father, Hōjō Tokiyori, a regent of the Kamakura period. The temple’s name, which means "Heavenly Dragon Temple", refers to the legendary Chinese dragon that brought peace and prosperity to the land. 

 

 

Tenryu-ji belongs to the Rinzai school of Zen Buddhism, and its purpose was to promote Zen teachings and provide spiritual solace during a turbulent period in Japanese history. The temple complex was designed by the famed Zen monk and landscape architect Musō Soseki, who created its renowned Sogenchi Garden. This garden is considered a masterpiece of Japanese garden design and has influenced the layout of many Zen gardens in Japan.

 

Over the centuries, Tenryu-ji has undergone several reconstructions and restorations due to fires and natural disasters. Despite these challenges, it has retained its spiritual and cultural significance, with many buildings and features reflecting the temple’s deep connection to Zen philosophy. Today, Tenryu-ji remains one of the most revered Zen temples in Japan, attracting visitors seeking a deeper understanding of Japanese culture, Buddhism, and nature.

 

Top Things to Do at Tenryu-ji

1. Wander through the Sogenchi Garden

One of the main highlights of Tenryu-ji is its Sogenchi Garden, considered one of the finest examples of Kare-sansui (dry landscape) gardens. Designed by Musō Soseki, the garden features a large pond, carefully arranged rocks, and trimmed pine trees that harmonize with the surrounding mountains. The pond serves as a mirror reflecting the serene beauty of the mountains, symbolizing the harmonious relationship between nature and the Zen Buddhist ideals of peace and enlightenment. Visitors can stroll around the garden or enjoy a moment of quiet reflection on the temple’s viewing platform.  

 

💡 Tip: The garden is especially breathtaking in autumn when the foliage turns vibrant shades of red and gold, and in spring when cherry blossoms bloom along the water’s edge.

 

 

2. Visit the Main Hall (Hatto) and the Sanmon Gate

The Main Hall (Hatto) of Tenryu-ji is a striking example of Zen Buddhist architecture, with its simple yet elegant design. Although the current building is a reconstruction, it preserves the temple's original architectural style. Inside the hall, visitors can observe the Buddha statue and other important religious artifacts.  

 

Adjacent to the Main Hall is the Sanmon Gate, a large, two-story structure that marks the entrance to the temple complex. The gate stands as a symbol of the entrance to enlightenment, and the view from here offers a beautiful vista of the surrounding Arashiyama hills and the temple grounds.  

 

💡 Tip: Take time to appreciate the simplicity and calmness of the temple’s architecture, which is integral to the Zen philosophy of wabi-sabi, the beauty of imperfection and transience.

 

 

3. Discover the Tenryu-ji’s History at the Museum  

Tenryu-ji features a small museum that displays a collection of historical artifacts, including calligraphy, Buddhist scrolls, and ancient objects used in religious rituals. These items provide deeper insight into the temple’s history and the broader context of Zen Buddhism in Japan.  

 

💡 Tip: If you’re interested in Zen history and Buddhist art, this museum offers a quiet place to reflect on the cultural significance of Tenryu-ji.  

 

4. Visit the Bamboo Grove  

While not part of the temple itself, the nearby Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is one of Kyoto’s most popular natural attractions and is located just a short walk from Tenryu-ji. The towering bamboo stalks create an enchanting atmosphere, and visitors can walk through the grove, experiencing the unique sounds of the bamboo swaying in the wind.  

 

💡 Tip: Visit the Bamboo Grove early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the crowds and experience the peaceful ambiance of the area.

 

5. Participate in a Zen Meditation Session  

For those looking to delve deeper into Zen culture, Tenryu-ji offers the opportunity to participate in a Zen meditation (zazen) session. These sessions allow visitors to sit in meditation, experiencing the stillness and mindfulness central to Zen practice. While many temples offer meditation, Tenryu-ji’s long history and tranquil surroundings make it an ideal place to begin a Zen practice.  

 

💡 Tip: Check with the temple’s visitor center for information on meditation schedules and reservations, as sessions may be offered at certain times of the year.

 

 

How to Get There

By Train:  

• From Kyoto Station, take the JR Sagano Line to Saga-Arashiyama Station (about 15 minutes). From here, it’s a 10-minute walk to Tenryu-ji.  
• Alternatively, you can take the Keifuku Arashiyama Line to Arashiyama Station (about 25 minutes), then walk for 5 minutes to reach the temple.

 

By Bus:  
From Kyoto Station, take Bus No. 28 and get off at the Tenryu-ji Mae bus stop, which is just a short walk from the temple.

 

By Taxi:  
A taxi ride from Kyoto Station takes about 20 minutes, depending on traffic.

 

Recommended Nearby Attractions

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove (0.1 km): Directly accessible from the temple’s north gate, this iconic grove is one of Kyoto’s most photographed landmarks. It’s particularly captivating during the early morning or late afternoon when the crowds thin out, allowing for a more meditative experience.

 

 

Togetsukyo Bridge (0.8 km): A short 10-minute walk from the temple, you can see the bridge and the Katsura River. From the bridge, you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, which come alive with pink cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant red and orange hues in autumn.

 

Iwatayama Monkey Park (1.2 km): Located across Togetsukyo Bridge, this park offers a chance to see wild monkeys up close and enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto. After a moderate 20-minute hike up a trail, you’ll reach the summit, where wild Japanese macaques roam freely.

 

Rakushisha Poet’s Hut (0.5 km): A tranquil retreat dedicated to the haiku poet Kyorai, this site is just a 7-minute walk from Tenryu-ji. You can immerse themselves in the serene surroundings and explore the small garden.

 

Okochi Sanso Villa (1.3 km): Tucked away in the bamboo grove, this villa has beautiful gardens and a tea house, giving you a peaceful break from the crowds. You can stroll along the meandering paths that lead to tea houses, lush greenery, and scenic viewpoints overlooking Kyoto.

 

How to Plan Your Itinerary

Half-Day Arashiyama Experience:

• Morning: Start at Tenryu-ji (8:30 AM) to explore the garden and Hojo in peace.
• Mid-Morning: Walk through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, then cross Togetsukyo Bridge.
• Lunch: Try local delicacies like yudofu (tofu hot pot) at a riverside restaurant.
• Afternoon: Visit Okochi Sanso Villa or take a boat ride on the Hozu River.

 

Full-Day Cultural Immersion:

• Morning: Tenryu-ji Temple and Bamboo Grove.
• Midday: Lunch in Arashiyama, followed by a visit to Jojakko-ji or Gio-ji Temple.
• Afternoon: Explore Monkey Park Iwatayama or take a scenic train ride on the Sagano Romantic Railway.
• Evening: Stroll along the Katsura River and enjoy dinner at a traditional kaiseki restaurant.