Tenryu-ji Temple is the headline attraction in Arashiyama, a sprawling Zen temple with one of the finest gardens in Kyoto and wonderful mountain views.
Right off the main drag in Arashiyama, a few steps from the main bus stop (Tenryuji-mae) and the Keifuku Line’s Arashiyama Station, Tenryu-ji Temple is the logical first stop for any exploration of Arashiyama. You start by exploring the main hall and observing the famed garden and pond from inside the hall, then you put your shoes back on and explore the garden on foot.
You can’t help but notice that this is one of the best examples of shakkei (borrowed scenery) in Japan: the steep mountains of Arashiyama form are perfectly incorporated into the design of the garden.
Make your way slowly uphill and away from the main hall and then exit the garden/temple by the north gate. A quick left from here will bring you right into the heart of Arashiyama’s famous Bamboo Grove.
Walking Tour: Tenryu-ji temple features in our Private Walking Tour of Arashiyama
English address: 68 Susukinobaba-cho, Saga Tenryu-ji, Ukyo-ku
Japanese address: 右京区嵯峨天龍寺芒ノ馬場町68
Opening hours:
8:30am-5:30pm, last entry 5:30pm, March 21st-October 20th
8:30am-5:00pm, last entry 5:00pm, October 21st-March 20th
Admission:
Admission to grounds: Free
Hojo garden:
Adults and College and High school students: Y500
Junior high and elementary school students: Y300
Hodo (Unryu-zu): \500
*Open 9am-5pm (9am-4:30pm October 21st-March 20th)
Non-smoking area: Yes
Nearest Transport:
1 min walk from Arashiyama Station, Keifuku dentetsu, Arashiyama line
13 min walk from Saga Arashiyama Station, JR Sagano line
15 min walk from Arashiyama Station, Henkyu railway
Telephone: 881-1235
Website: Official Website (Japanese)
Where Is This Place Located?
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Kyoto Walking Tour: Arashiyama
Explore the stunning Kyoto district of Arashiyama, including the breathtaking Bamboo Grove, on this guided private walk.(Four hours duration. Price: ¥40,000)
More Details About The Tour
Near To Here:
Tenryu-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 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
- A prepaid Welcome Suica card makes travelling around Kyoto easy – here's how
- 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
