Only open for two brief periods a year, Reikan-ji Temple is a must-see attraction if you’re lucky enough to be in town when the gates are open.
Open only first two weeks of April and last two weeks of November (check with the Kyoto Tourist Information Office for exact yearly dates), Reikan-ji, a small temple just above The Path of Philosophy, is famous for its camellia, which burst into riotous crimson bloom in early April. In the fall, the red highlights will be supplied by the countless maple trees that dot the grounds.
English address:
12 Goshonodan-cho, Shishigatani, Sakyo-ku
Japanese Address:
左京区鹿ケ谷御所ノ段町12
Opening hours:
10am-4pm, last entry 3:30pm
Open only in spring and autumn
Admission:
Adults: \600
Elementary school students: \300
Non-smoking area: Yes
Nearest Transport:
7min walk from Ginkaku-ji-michi Bus Stop, Kyoto City Bus 5 or 17 from Kyoto Station
Telephone: 771-4040
Website: None
Where Is This Place Located?
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Near To Here:
Reikan-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.
Kyoto Vacation Checklist
- For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Kyoto guide
- Check Kyoto accommodation availability on Booking.com and Agoda.com - often you can book with no upfront payment and free cancellation
- You can buy shinkansen (bullet train) tickets online from Klook - popular routes include Tokyo to Kyoto, Kyoto to Osaka and Kyoto to Tokyo
- Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Kyoto
- See my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
- You can buy an eSim to activate in Japan or buy a data-only SIM card online for collection when you arrive at Tokyo's Narita or Haneda Airports or Kansai International Airport. You can also rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
- Compare Japan flight prices and timings to find the best deals
- If you're making frequent train journeys during your visit, you might save money with Japan Rail Pass – see if it's worth it for you
- World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world
- Do you want help planning your trip? Chris Rowthorn and his team of Japan experts at Japan Travel Consulting can help
