A remote Buddhist temple in Kyoto's Arashiyama area, famous for its display of 1,200 distinctive and playful stone statues of rakan, the Buddha's disciples.
MK Guide Recommends
A criminally overlooked temple in the Arashiyama area, and a true must visit, even for those with temple fatigue. It’s known for its many stone rakan (Buddha’s disciples) statues, numbering over 1,000, each unique and reflecting the character of its creator. Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple sits at the far end of the busy district, and the walk there passes through a residential neighborhood that exudes traditional Kyoto charm.
Each statue has a distinct expression or trait and was created as part of a revitalization project in the 1970s and 80s led by sculptor and monk Kōchō Nishimura, who brought the temple back to life and invited believers to carve under his guidance. Today, the site is run by his lineage, continuing to blend art and religion to inspire a new generation of followers. An often overused phrase by travel guide standards, but this is a hidden gem in every sense of the word.
For the adventurous, there’s also a nearby tunnel tied to local haunting legends. Do your own research. I’m not recommending it, I’m just mentioning it for the curious.
Facilities & Services
- Open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Admission fee: ¥300
- Over 1,200 unique stone rakan statues
- Serene hillside setting with lush greenery
- No on-site parking; public transportation recommended
Contact
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