Sanjusangen-do Temple

Overview

Sanjusangen-do Temple is a historic temple in Kyoto, Japan, known for its impressive architectural design and the 1,001 statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. It is a must-visit for those interested in Japanese history and art.

The temple is famous for its unique architectural style and the large number of statues of Kannon, which are considered significant in Buddhist art and history.

Historical Religious

Location

Address

657 Sanjusangendomawari, Higashiyama, Kyoto

Neighborhood: Higashiyama

Coordinates

34.992100, 135.782900

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

tuesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

wednesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

thursday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

friday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

saturday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

sunday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Admission

Adults

600 JPY

Children

400 JPY

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

March-May, October-November

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds, better light for photos

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1 hour

Recommended

2-3 hours

Full Experience

half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild to warm

• cherry blossoms
• pleasant weather

summer

hot and humid

• extended hours
• summer festivals

autumn

cool to mild

• fall foliage
• cooler weather

winter

cold

• holiday lights
• winter festivals

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book ahead for special events
Bring ID
Check weather and dress accordingly

What to Bring

essential

ID water tickets

seasonal

jacket raincoat comfortable shoes

not allowed

large bags drones food

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: low to moderate

• uneven surfaces, stairs

Medical facilities: first aid available on-site

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, credit cards

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Typical Costs

entry 500 JPY

parking 300 JPY

food 500-1000 JPY

souvenirs 200-5000 JPY

Dress Code

casual, respectful, comfortable shoes, appropriate clothing for temple visits, comfortable walking shoes, inappropriate clothing (e.g., revealing clothing, beachwear)

Booking Tips

• 1-2 weeks for special events, same day for regular visits
• official website, major travel booking platforms
• 24-48 hours in advance for a full refund
• available for purchase online

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Sanjusangen-do Temple Official App

Size: 30 MB

Features: Map, Audio guide, Tickets, Event information

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe

Charging Stations: Rest areas, cafe

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Kansai International Airport (KIX)

Distance: 110 km

Travel Time: 1.5-2 hours

taxi

25,000-30,000 JPY 1.5-2 hours

public_transport

3,000-4,000 JPY 2-2.5 hours

From City Center

Distance: 5 km

metro

220 JPY 15 min

bus

230 JPY 20 min

taxi

1,500-2,000 JPY 10-15 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Historic importance, beautiful architecture, spiritual significance

Historical Significance: Built in 1164, it is one of Kyoto's most important historic sites

Insider Tips

Free entry early morning for a limited time
Best local food can be found at the back entrance

Local Recommendations

• Try matcha at a nearby tea house
• Ask for a guide with historical knowledge

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Konnichiwa

thank_you Arigatou gozaimasu

where_is Doko desu ka

how_much Ikura desu ka

beautiful Kirei desu

ticket Kippu

Guide Languages: Japanese, English, Chinese, Korean

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Main entrance

Best Time: Early morning

Tips: Low angle to capture the entire facade

Result: Great shot of the temple's architectural details

#kyoto #japan #sanjusangen-do #temple #architecture

Statue Hall

Best Time: Midday

Tips: Wide-angle shots to capture the 1,001 statues

Result: Breathtaking view of the statues

#kyoto #japan #sanjusangen-do #statues #art

Photography Rules

allowed areas outdoor areas, main hall

prohibited areas exhibitions, restricted areas

flash photography not allowed in indoor areas

commercial photography permit needed for professional shoots

drone policy prohibited

tripod policy restricted, tripods may be allowed in outdoor areas with permission

selfie sticks allowed in outdoor areas, restricted in indoor areas

Nearby Attractions

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Distance: 500m

Walking: 7 min

Type: Temple

Yasaka Shrine

Distance: 300m

Walking: 5 min

Type: Shrine

Maruyama Park

Distance: 400m

Walking: 6 min

Type: Park

Reviews

4.5

Based on 2,000 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

"Book online to skip the line"
"Visit early to avoid crowds"
"Great views and historical significance"

Contact Information

+81 75-561-6363

info@sanjusangen-do.jp

www.sanjusangen-do.jp

Social Media

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