Overview
Tenryu-ji Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning Zen temple and beautiful gardens. It is one of the most important temples in Kyoto and offers a serene escape from the bustling city.
Tenryu-ji is the headquarters of the Tenryu-ji branch of Rinzai Zen Buddhism and is renowned for its historical and cultural importance.
Location
Address
68 Sagatenryuji Susukinobabacho, Ukyo, Kyoto
Neighborhood: Arashiyama
Coordinates
35.032900, 135.719100
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May, October-November
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild to warm
- • cherry blossoms
- • garden tours
summer
hot and humid
- • extended hours
- • summer festivals
autumn
cool and crisp
- • fall colors
- • autumn festivals
winter
cold
- • holiday lights
- • winter festivals
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Respect temple rules
- Bring ID
- Check weather
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate
- • stairs
- • uneven paths
Medical facilities: first aid available
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, credit cards
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual, modest clothing, comfortable shoes, layers for changing weather, walking shoes, inappropriate clothing
Booking Tips
- • 1-2 weeks
- • official website
- • 48 hours
- • available
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Tenryu-ji Official App
Size: 50 MB
Features: Map, Audio guide, Tickets
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe
Charging Stations: Rest areas
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Kansai International Airport
Distance: 120 km
Travel Time: 1.5 hours
From City Center
Distance: 5 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Historic importance, serene environment
Historical Significance: Founded in 1339, important in the history of Zen Buddhism
Insider Tips
- Free entry early morning for locals
- Best food at back entrance
- Visit during off-peak hours for a more peaceful experience
Local Recommendations
- • Try matcha at the on-site cafe
- • Ask for guide John
- • Visit nearby Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Japanese
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Main entrance
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Low angle
Result: Great shot of the temple entrance
Zen garden
Best Time: Morning
Tips: Wide angle
Result: Stunning view of the garden
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Distance: 500m
Walking: 7 min
Type: Natural Wonder
Kinkaku-ji
Distance: 3km
Walking: 40 min
Type: Temple
Sagano Scenic Railway
Distance: 800m
Walking: 10 min
Type: Tourist Train
Reviews
Based on 5,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book online"
- "Visit early"
- "Great views"
- "Wear comfortable shoes"
Contact Information
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Quick Info
Available Tours
95
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
5,000
Adult Entry
500 JPY