Daitoku Ji Temple

Not just a temple — a world of temples. Daitoku-ji Temple is home to some of my favorite Zen gardens in Kyoto.

[image © Damien Douxchamps]

Daitoku-ji Temple confuses people because the eponymous (that’s right, I just used that word) Daitoku-ji Temple is only one of several temples within the walls of this incredible complex of Zen temples and subtemples. Surprisingly, the namesake temple is not the best of the lot here. I prefer other beauties like Koto-in, Zuiho-in and Daisen-in, all of which are open all year. And, if you’re lucky to be in Kyoto in the fall, don’t miss the spectacular Obai-in. For more details on this excellent temple, check out our in-depth Exploring Daitoku-ji page.

See also our in-depth report on experiencing zazen (zen meditation) and a tea ceremony at Daitoku-ji.

Name in English:
Daitoku-ji Temple

Name in Japanese:
大徳寺

English address:
53 Murasakino-Daitokuji-cho, Kita-ku

Japanese address:
北区紫野大徳寺町53

Opening hours:
24 hours

Admission: free

Non-smoking area: Yes

Nearest Transport:
In front of Daitokuji-mae Bus Stop, Kyoto City Bus 101 or 204 or 205 or 206 from Kitaoji Station, Karasuma subway line

Telephone: 491-0019

Website: Official site (English)

Near To Here:
Daitoku-ji Temple is located in Northwest Kyoto. See our complete list of things to do in Northwest Kyoto, including places to eat, nightlife and places to stay.

Where Is This Place Located?

• Open the Kyoto map
• You will see the list of places on the left hand side. (Click the 3-line icon in the top left corner if not). Scroll down or use the map search (the magnifying glass icon) to find the place you want.
• Click the name of the place in the list. Its location pin will be highlighted on the map.
• Map pins are color coded - BLUE: Hotels | VIOLET: Ryokan | PINK: Places to Eat | YELLOW: Things to See and Do
• If you’re using the map on your phone, open the map and then search for the name of the place. The map will then zoom in on its location.

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