Overview
Daitoku-ji Temple is a renowned Zen Buddhist temple complex in Kyoto, known for its beautiful sub-temples, serene gardens, and rich history. It is one of the most important Rinzai Zen temples in Japan.
Founded in 1321, Daitoku-ji is a significant cultural and historical landmark, representing the Zen Buddhist tradition and housing numerous National Treasures of Japan.
Location
Address
53 Murasakino Daitokujicho, Kita, Kyoto
Neighborhood: Murasakino
Coordinates
35.063300, 135.733300
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May, October-November
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild to warm
- • cherry blossoms
- • gardens in bloom
summer
hot and humid
- • lush greenery
autumn
cool, comfortable
- • fall foliage
winter
cold, occasional snow
- • snow-covered gardens
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Respect quiet atmosphere
- Dress modestly
- Follow temple rules
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
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
Dress Code
modest, casual, comfortable shoes, layers for changing weather, walking shoes, shorts, revealing clothing
Booking Tips
- • 1-2 weeks for special events
- • official website or trusted travel agencies
- • 24 hours in advance
- • available for group tours
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Daitoku-ji Temple Official App
Size: 25 MB
Features: Map, Audio guide, Event calendar
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe
Charging Stations: Rest areas
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Kansai International Airport (KIX)
Distance: 120 km
Travel Time: 90 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 6 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Historic significance, peaceful atmosphere
Historical Significance: Important Zen Buddhist temple with a rich history
Insider Tips
- Early morning visits offer a peaceful experience
- Local cafes offer authentic matcha and sweets
- Check for special exhibitions and events
Local Recommendations
- • Try matcha at the tea house
- • Visit nearby Ryoan-ji Temple for another rock garden
- • Explore the local cafes and shops
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: Japanese, English, Chinese
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Daisen-in Temple
Best Time: Early morning
Tips: Capture the rock garden and moss-covered grounds
Result: Serene and peaceful shots
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Ryoan-ji Temple
Distance: 1km
Walking: 15 min
Type: Temple
Kinkaku-ji Temple
Distance: 3km
Walking: 40 min
Type: Temple
Nijo Castle
Distance: 4km
Walking: 50 min
Type: Castle
Reviews
Based on 5,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Visit early for a peaceful experience"
- "Don't miss the sub-temples"
- "Try matcha at the tea house"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (24)
Kyoto Rickshaw Tour
Kyoto: Kinkaku-ji Temple & Serene Garden Guided Tour with Tickets
Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
Kyoto Early Bird Walking Tour
Osaka / Kyoto: Katsuoji, Arashiyama & Kinkaku-ji One Day Tour
Osaka / Kyoto: Kinkaku-ji, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Sannenzaka & Uji
Otagi Nenbutsu Temple and Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Tour
Kyoto Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure) with Government-Licensed Guide
Kyoto Private 6 hour Tour: English Speaking Driver Only, No Guide
Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Scenery Customized Private Tour
Kyoto Sagano Bamboo Grove & Arashiyama Walking Tour
Nara 8hr Private Tour - Kyoto DEP. with Licensed Guide
Kyoto: Kinkaku ji Temple Historical Guided Tour
Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo forest & Garden Half-Day Walking Tour
4.5-Hour Kyoto Bike Tour with Lunch and UNESCO Zen Temples
Kyoto & Nara: Nara Park, Fushimi Inari & Arashiyama Day Trip
Kyoto: Daigo-ji Temple, Hidden Treasure of History & Beauty
Kyoto Higashi Hongan-ji Temple and Shōsei-en Garden Walk Tour
Kyoto: Golden Pavilion and Ryoan-ji Zen Garden Guided Tour
Kyoto: Tofuku-ji Temple and Komyo-in Guided Walking Tour
Arashiyama Bamboo & "Must See" Gardens with an Amazing Guide
Kyoto: Philosopher’s Path and Hidden Temple Walking Tour
Kyoto Panoramic Day Tour Fushimi Inari Arashiyama and Temples
Kyoto and Nara Day Trip from Osaka
Quick Info
Available Tours
14
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
5,000
Adult Entry
JPY 500