Gio Ji Temple
- Kyoto
- 29 Aug, 2025
Tiny Gio-ji Temple is one of the most scenic spots in Arashiyama. The thatched-roof main hall overlooking a moss-covered grotto is a magical sight.
[image © Damien
Douxchamps]
Most tourists stream right past the entrance to Gio-ji Temple and adjoining Takiguchi-dera Temple, but that’s their loss. Gio-ji Temple, in particular, is one of the finest sights in Arashiyama. The thatched-roof main hall is tiny and there’s little to see inside, but viewed from outside, it’s superb. It presides over a grove of thick moss that just about begs you to lie down for an afternoon nap (keep in mind, of course, that you cannot walk on the moss, let alone lie on it). All in all, this is one of our favourite spots in Arashiyama.
Walking Tour: Gio-ji temple features in our Private Walking Tour of Arashiyama
English address: 32 Kozaka, Saga Toriimoto, Ukyo-ku
Japanese address: 右京区嵯峨鳥居本小坂32
Opening hours: 9:00am-5:00pm, last entry 4:30pm
Admission: \300 (Elementary school students: \100)
Non-smoking area: Yes
Nearest Transport:
10 min from “Sagashakado-mae” bus stop (Kyoto city bus or Kyoto bus)
20 min walk from Saga Arashiyama Station, JR Sagano line
Telephone: 861-3574
Website: Official website (Japanese)
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.
Kyoto Walking Tour: Arashiyama
Near To Here:
Gio-ji Temple is located in Kyoto’s Arashiyama
district. See our complete list of things to do in
Kyoto’s Arashiyama district, including places to eat,
nightlife and places to stay.
Kyoto Vacation Checklist
- For a quick overview, see my First Time In Kyoto guide.
- Check if a visa is required for Japan
- Check Kyoto accommodation availability on Booking.com and Agoda.com.
- Buy Japan Rail Tickets and Shinkansen Tickets Online.
- For tips on where to stay, see Where To Stay In Kyoto.
- See my Packing List For Japan.
- Purchase an eSim or SIM card for Japan.
- Compare flight prices on Skyscanner.
- Consider a Japan Rail Pass - see if it’s worth for you.
- Consider a travel insurance.