A peaceful temple in Kyoto's Arashiyama area, famous for its touching collection of around 8,000 stone Buddha statues that honor the spirits of the deceased.
MK Guide Recommends
A Buddhist temple dating back to the 8th century, said to have been founded by Kūkai, a monk, poet, and spiritual pioneer. Though in the heavily trafficked Arashiyama area, this overlooked destination is a great stop for those looking for a place to catch their thoughts and reflect on their travels so far. Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple is a criminally overlooked site worth a quick visit and is often uncrowded with tourists.
It even has its own tiny bamboo forest for those looking for photos without having to crop out crowds, compared with the nearby famous bamboo grove. The 8,000 stone images give the temple a mythical, solemn feel, as each one represents the soul of someone buried in the area, making it a palpable place where spiritual tension can be felt for those seeking that kind of experience.
Facilities & Services
- Open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM (gates close at 5:00 PM)
- From December to February, open until 3:30 PM (gates close at 4:00 PM)
- Annual "Sento Kuyo" (Thousand Lantern Memorial) held in August
- Serene bamboo grove within the temple grounds
- No on-site parking; bicycle parking available
Contact
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