Must visit Temples in Kyoto – not only golden temple (Kinkaku-ji), there are many temples with a long history and interesting stories! Here is a Kyoto Temples guide for you to decide which temple(s) to visit.
Temples in Kyoto, Japan
There are over 3000 temples in Kyoto today, and some of them have a long history, and many of them have an unique and interesting story. It’s one of ways to enjoy temples, in my opinion.
World Heritage
In 1994, Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto (Kyoto, Uji and Otsu Cities) is added to World Heritage. There are a lot of temples included.
Must Visit Temples in Kyoto
There are many beautiful and attractive temples in Kyoto, and it might be difficult to choose which temples to go for you. So I am picking some of my favorites to introduce to you.
- Kinkaku-ji Temple – Iconic golden temple
- Ginkaku-ji Temple – Wabi Sabi vibes
- Kiyomizu dera Temple – Dynamic deck made from wood
- Byodoin – the temple printed on 10 yen coin
- Kenninji Temple – Zen style temple with arts
Kinkaku ji Temple – Golden Temple
I guess you might know Kinkaku ji Temple which is called Golden Temple. Although you might not know it’s a nickname and the real name is Rokuon ji Temple.
It was built by Yoshimitsu Ashikaga in 1397.
We cannot go inside though, most of parts inside is golden, too. The Phoenix on the top of roof is the original one from when it was built which means it’s been there for 625 years (as of 2022), you should check it out!
Rikushu no Matsu ( Pinetree of Rikushu ) is also interesting!
World Heritage
It’s a part of “Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto (Kyoto, Uji and Otsu Cities)”.
Information
- Admission : 400 yen / adult
- About 1 hour to look around
Ginkakuji Temple
Many people know of Kinkakuji Temple, however not many know Ginkakuji Temple. As a Japanese, i learned Kinkakuji and also Ginkakuji as a set. (Kin = Gold, Gin = silver). I know it doesn’t look like a silver as it says, not like Kinkakuji Temple shining gold. The reason why it didn’t get wrapped with silver is not clear. Although, many people say that they can feel Wabi Sabi from Ginkaku-ji.
It’s also a nickname and real name is Jishoji Temple, was built by Yoshimasa Ashikaga in 1482.
Togudo which was built in 1486 is a national treasure.
Info : Higashiyama Jisho-ji Temple
Kiyomizu Dera Temple
Kiyomizu dera Temple was built in 778, and not big at the beginning but getting bigger and bigger. Unfortunately it was burnt out 10 times, but also rebuilt.
The main building has a deck and you can see how tall it is (13 meters). It’s made from woods, and current one was rebuilt in 1633. The waterfall named Otowa no Taki is famous spot and a must check.
It’s beautiful especially on Spring with cherry blossom and Fall with autumn leaves. They do a night-light up in autumn.
World Heritage
Kiyomizu dera temple is also one of part of “Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto (Kyoto, Uji and Otsu Cities)” recorded in World Heritages.
Info : Kiyomizu Dera Temple
- 400 yen / adult
- 1h to take a look
Kiyomizu Dera – Official site (English)
Byodoin
Byodoin is known and seen on 10 yen coin. It’s located in Uji, Kyoto, was built by Yorimichi Fujiwara in 1057. (His father Michinaga Fujiwara used to own it, and passed down to him.)
You should definitely check out Hou-ou-do which is one of Japan’s national treasures. The big bell Bonsho is also a must check and national treasure. The garden around Hou-ou-do is Jodo garden which recreated pureland of Buddhist.
Information
- 600 yen / adult
- Takes 1 to 1.5 hours
Kenninji Temple
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It’s the first Zen temple in Kyoto, built in 1202 by Monk Eisai who was supported by Yoriie Minamoto (who was the top at the time and a son of Yoritomo Minamoto who started Kamakura period.).
Normally, you cannot take a picture inside of temple, but you can at Kenninji temple, so make sure you’d get some and enjoy later too.
The garden is also well-maintenanced, just so beautiful.. i just sat down and thought nothing for a while.
Noted that you need to take off your shoes to go inside, and also put slippers on when you go to Nengedo (or Hatto) because you need to go through the pathway.
Temple with Arts
If you love arts, you should go to Kenninji Temple! (Swipe!) The art on the ceiling on Nengedo is gorgeous and very impressive! It’s like an art museum..!
Information
- 600 yen / adult
- 1h to look around
Kyoto has many temples which worths to visit including some temples which are a part of world heritage. Enjoy the unique history(story) and buildings at each temple in Kyoto, Japan.
