Kyoto. Just saying the word makes us feel like we have been transported to serene Zen temples surrounded by ancient cedars, seeing incense wafting through the air as you stroll through the temple grounds and hearing temple bells tinkling at a temple complex. With over 1,600 of the grandest temples, shrines and gardens throughout the city, Kyoto is the ultimate destination for anyone looking for peace and a taste of Japan.
Some Buddhist temples in Kyoto city, like the famous Kinkaku-ji, are super popular and crowded while other temple buildings offer quiet contemplation along with tranquil surroundings. So, put on your walking shoes and get ready to find your zen with Pelago by Singapore Airlines' insider's guide to the 7 top Kyoto temple experiences that only locals know about.
Must-Visit Temples in Kyoto
Kinkaku-ji Temple: The Golden Pavilion
A shining beacon in the morning sun. That's an apt description of Kinkaku-ji temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, National Special Historic Site, and National Special Landscape known for its stunning golden walls adorned with gold leaf. As you walk around the pond, the gold seems to melt into the water, especially in the morning and evening.
The temple's allure only increases when you consider the historical context behind its story. This three-storey Zen temple was originally built in 1397 as a retirement villa for the shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu. But after a fire in 1950 destroyed it, it was a daunting task to rebuild the Zen Buddhist shrine to mimic the original temple's style.
A sight to see, you do not want to miss out on visiting one of the most iconic Kyoto temples - consider adding shine to your Kyoto morning with a Golden Pavilion & Kyoto Imperial Palace tour during your visit.
Address: 1 Kinkakujicho, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 603-8361 (map)
Directions: Take a 5-minute walk from the nearest bus stop at Kinkakuji-michi
Opening Hours: Open Daily, 9am to 5pm
Entry Fee: SGD 4.4
Fushimi Inari Shrine: Thousands of Vermilion Torii Gates
Enter a world of orange at Fushimi Inari Shrine - a major Shinto shrine in Southern Kyoto famous for its thousands of bright orange torii gates leading up Mount Inari. As you walk through the gates, the sunlight filters through the gaps, making you feel like you have been transported to another world.
You can also walk the surrounding wooded hills, forest and mountain trails to enjoy the sounds of the trees swaying and birds chirping. To avoid the crowds, go in the early morning or late afternoon. For further ease, opt for a Kyoto day tour to Fushimi Inari.
Address: 68 Fukakusa Yabunouchicho, Fushimi Ward, Kyoto, 612-0882 (map)
Directions: Take a 1-minute walk from Inari Station.
Opening Hours: Open 24 Hours
Entry Fee: Free
Byodo-in Temple (Uji): UNESCO World Heritage Site
Take a day trip to Uji, a lovely little town between Kyoto and Nara to visit the Byodo-in Temple. Built in the 11th century, this temple looks like a phoenix taking flight with the red Phoenix Hall sitting by the pond.
Doing a double take? If you think you’ve seen this before, it’s not because your eyes are playing tricks on you. But it’s because it has a twin in Hawaii. Hawaii’s Byodo-In Temple, built in 1968 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the first Japanese immigrants to Hawaii, is a scale replica of this temple in Uji.
Don’t miss out on one of the best temples in the Kyoto prefecture. Visit the Byodo-in Temple now to walk the temple grounds, stroll through the gardens and enjoy the beauty of this old temple.
Address: Renge-116 Uji, Kyoto 611-0021 (map)
Directions: Take a short 6-minute walk from Keihan Uji station.
Opening Hours: Open Daily, 8:30am to 5:30pm
Entry Fee: SGD 6.13
Temples for Nature and Contemplation
Tenryu-ji Temple and Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Step into a fairytale at the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Here, bamboo stalks tower above you, creating a tunnel of green all around you. A short walk away is Tenryu-ji Temple, one of the best temples in Kyoto’s Arashiyama district, that is famous for its beautiful landscaped gardens.
Wander through the meticulously raked gravel, carefully placed rocks and trees to appreciate the art of Japanese garden design at the shrine. The fiery hues of fall foliage paint this landscape in a breathtaking display of colour, especially in November, so we encourage visitors to head there during this period for the best views.
For those looking for a novel experience, explore the temple and the surrounding area with an Arashiyama Bamboo Bike tour now.
Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Address: Sagaogurayama Tabuchiyamacho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8394 (map)
Opening Hours: Open 24 Hours
Entry Fee: Free
Tenryu-ji Address: Japan, 〒616-8385 Kyoto, Ukyo Ward, Sagatenryuji Susukinobabacho (map)
Directions: Take a short 2-minute walk from Arashiyama Station.
Opening Hours: Open Daily, 8:30am to 5pm
Entry Fee: SGD 4.4
Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Kiyomizu-dera Temple, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers stunning architecture and magnificent gardens. A highlight of the Kiyomizu-dera Temple is its main hall that is perched on a hillside and supported by towering pillars, which juts out dramatically to provide visitors with breathtaking city vistas. With views like that, it is little surprise that it is one of the most best temples in Japan for photographs.
As you walk through the shrine, take a moment to appreciate the intricate architectural details, the orange pagoda, and the beautifully landscaped gardens. For a truly authentic local experience, consider signing up for a Kyoto tea ceremony and Kiyomizu-dera Temple walking tour.
Before you leave one of the most celebrated Kyoto temples, don't forget to wander around the surrounding area, where you'll find more temples and shrines that make for great photo opportunities too.
Pro-Tip: Don't forget to try the "omikuji," paper fortunes sold at Kiyomizu-dera.
Address: 1 Chome-294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0862, Japan (map)
Directions: Take a 12-minute walk from the nearest bus stop at Kiyomizu-michi. Alternatively, take a short 7-minute drive from Kiyomizu-Gojo station.
Opening Hours: Open Daily, 6am to 6pm
Entry Fee: SGD 3.5
Kennin-ji Temple: Oldest Zen Temple in Kyoto
Nestled in the heart of Gion, the geisha district, Kennin-ji Temple is a tranquil oasis in Kyoto. Founded in 1202, it's the oldest Zen temple in the Kyoto area and considered one of the five most important Zen temples in Kyoto.
Breathe in the aroma of incense as you explore the temple, marvelling at its lovely garden and the awe-inspiring dragon ceiling mural. Kennin-ji temple is also considered one of Kyoto's five most important Zen temples.
Address: Japan, 〒605-0811 Kyoto, Higashiyama Ward, Komatsucho, ５８４番地 (map)
Directions: Take a short 3-minute walk from Gion-Shijo station.
Opening Hours: Open Daily, 10am to 4:30pm
Entry Fee: SGD 5.23
Ginkaku-ji Temple: Temple of the Silver Pavilion
Often overshadowed by its more famous sibling, the Golden Pavilion, Ginkaku-ji temple or the Silver Pavilion has its own unique charm. Located in the eastern Kyoto area, it’s a photogenic temple along the Higashiyama mountain range that features a dry sand garden that is a minimalist masterpiece and a raised cone covered in moss, that symbolises the beauty of imperfection.
Also known as Higashiyama Jishō-ji, it is one of the best Kyoto temples if you are looking for a peaceful and serene experience amidst the hustle and bustle of touring the Higashiyama district. Embark on a bus tour to Kinkaku-ji temple, Ginkaku-ji temple and Kiyomizu-dera Temple today to relax and appreciate the simple things in life.
Address: 2 Ginkakujicho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8402 (map)
Directions: Take a 10-minute walk from the nearest bus stop at Ginkakuji-michi.
Opening Hours: Open Daily, 8:30am to 5pm
Entry Fee: SGD 4.4
Practical Information
Navigating Kyoto Temples: Maps and Etiquette
With over 1,600 temples and shrines, the city of Kyoto can feel like a spiritual maze. Fear not! Grab a good map or use your phone's GPS to navigate this sacred wonderland. Also, it helps that several of these shrines are accessible via the subway line from the city centre, the JR Nara line from the JR Kyoto Station and the Karasuma subway line. Alternatively, you could also hail a cab from the nearest airport to bring you there. Once you reach, many temples have English guides or audio tours too so things won't be lost in translation, but a little research beforehand can enhance your Japan trip.
Also, it would be wise to remember, these aren’t just buildings in Japan; they’re places of worship and meditation. Show respect to the holy place you are visiting by dressing modestly, speaking softly, and following posted guidelines. When entering designated areas, remove your shoes, and resist the urge to touch artefacts.
Best Time to Visit Kyoto’s Temples: Avoiding the Crowds
Autumn, with its fiery foliage, and spring (early April - late March), with its cherry blossoms, are undoubtedly peak times in Kyoto. To avoid the human traffic jam in Japan, consider visiting the shrines early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
Also, remember to check the temple’s website before you go. Some have special events or closures, and you wouldn’t want to miss out on a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Make a Temple Run in Kyoto
Simply put, Kyoto is a temple treasure trove. Each temple is a world unto itself, offering portals to a haven of tranquillity, history, and wonder. Whether you're seeking spiritual enlightenment, architectural wonder, or simply a moment of peace, Kyoto has it all! So pack your camera, wear comfortable shoes, and let Kyoto weave its magic. Join Pelago by Singapore Airlines to find your zen in Kyoto temples.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of the famous temple in Kyoto?
Kyoto has many famous temples, but Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) is the most iconic.
Is Kinkaku-ji real gold?
No, Kinkaku-ji is covered in gold leaf.
What is the Ryoanji temple famous for?
Ryoanji is renowned for its dry rock garden, a minimalist masterpiece.