Tenryu-ji Temple is a culturally significant Zen Temple in Kyoto, and is among the Kyoto UNESCO World Heritage sites, Monuments of ancient Kyoto. Today, the beautiful buildings and lovely gardens of Tenryu-ji temple has become a popular attraction for visitor to Arashiyama.
Tenryu-ji was built in 1339 by the Shogun of the time, Ashikaga Takuji. Tenryu-ji is the head temple of the Rinzai sect of Zen Buddhism.
To date, there has been 8 fires that have ravaged Tenryu-ji, doing varying levels of damage. The temple had caught fire in the years; 1358,1367,1373,1380,1447,1468, 1815, and lastly, 1864. Due to the significance of the temple, Toyotomo Hideoyoshi provided financial support to ensure that the temple was able to rebuild stronger. The building you see today are restorations of the original buildings, built in the mid 1800s and early 1900s.
The gardens at Tenryu-ji are stunning, and have survived the test of time. The gardens you see today are the same as they were when the temple was first built. The famous Tenryu-ji gardens were created by Muso Soseki, who served as Tenryu-ji’s head priest for a number of years.
In the nearby area, you can explore some of Arashiyama’s top sites, such as the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Iwatayama Monkey Park, and the Kimono Forest.
Hours and Admission
- Hours: 8:30am-5:00pm
- 500JPY, 300JPY extra to enter into temple buildings
- Average Time Spent: 15-20 minutes
- Official Website
Accessing Tenryu-ji Temple
Tenryu-ji Temple is only a short walk from JR Saga Arashiyama station, which is approximately a 25 minute train ride from Kyoto Station, with a cost of 240JPY one way. The JR Rail Pass is accepted on this line.
Arashiyama station on the Keifuku Arashiyama Line to Omiya is also within a short walk from Tenryu-ji, but the JR Rail Pass is not accepted on this service.
Where To Stay
Daiwa Roynet Hotel Grande Kyoto
Want more options on places to stay in Kyoto? See our Hotels in Kyoto Page!
Nearby Attractions
Explore other attractions in Kyoto
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