Anraku Ji Temple Northern Higashiyama

Another tiny charmer of a temple off of the Path of Philosophy, Anraku-ji is highly recommended if you’re in town when it’s open.

[image © Damien Douxchamps]

Just above the Path of Philosophy, a short walk south of Honen-in Temple, Anraku-ji Temple is one of the most photographed sights during the fall foliage season — and for good reason — the maple-lined approach and thatch-roof entry gate is impossibly picturesque. Once inside, the garden is also fine and the image of Amida Buddha in the main hall is sublime. The only problem with Anraku-ji is the convoluted opening hours (you kind of get the impression that they don’t want you to visit). Here they are:

• Saturdays and Sundays during the first two weeks of April
• Saturdays, Sundays, and national holidays during the first two weeks of May
• Saturdays and Sundays of last two weeks of May and first two weeks of June
• Saturdays, Sundays, and national holidays in November
• Saturdays and Sundays during the first two weeks of December

English address:
21 Goshonodan-cho, Shishigatani, Sakyo-ku

Japanese Address:
左京区鹿ケ谷御所ノ段町21

Opening hours:
9:30am-4:30pm
Open only in spring and autumn

Admission:
\500
Junior high school students and younger: Free

Non-smoking area: Yes

Nearest Transport:
10min walk from Shinyodo-mae Bus Stop, Kyoto City Bus 5 from Kyoto Station

Telephone: 771-5360

Website: Official Website (Japanese)

Where Is This Place Located?

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Near To Here:
Anraku-ji Temple is located in Kyoto’s Northern Higashiyama district. See our complete list of things to do in Northern Higashiyama, including places to eat, nightlife and places to stay.

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