Seiryo-ji (Sagashakado) Kyoto
A serene Buddhist temple in Kyoto, offering national treasures and peaceful gardens, a quiet escape near Arashiyama.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Escape the crowds
Seiryo-ji (Sagashakado) Kyoto
Best Time
Escape the crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene Buddhist temple in Kyoto, offering national treasures and peaceful gardens, a quiet escape near Arashiyama.
"A really cool Temple in a very quiet neighbourhood. The grounds are nice to wonder around."
🤫 Quiet Neighborhood Gem
Discover this peaceful temple, a welcome respite from busy Arashiyama spots. :leafy_green:
💰 Admission Fee
Entry is ¥500 per person, granting access to explore the temple buildings and grounds. :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Main Temple & Buddha Statue
Main Hall
Discover national treasure artifacts and a serene Buddha statue within the historic main hall. Photography is not permitted inside.

Peaceful Garden Walkway
Rear of Main Hall
Enjoy tranquil garden views and a sense of calm on the walkway behind the main temple building.

Oimatsuri Fire Festival
Temple Grounds
Witness the spectacular Oimatsuri fire festival on March 15th, a major Kyoto fire ritual with towering pine torches.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Serenity
Explore Beyond the Main Hall
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🤫 Quiet Neighborhood Gem
Discover this peaceful temple, a welcome respite from busy Arashiyama spots. :leafy_green:
💰 Admission Fee
Entry is ¥500 per person, granting access to explore the temple buildings and grounds. :moneybag:
Itinerary to experience as many temples and shrines in one day?
📸 No Photos Inside
Remember, photography is not allowed inside the main temple buildings. :camerawithflash:
🌸 Spring Plum Blossoms
Visit in early spring to enjoy the beautiful plum blossoms on the grounds. :cherry_blossom:
Tips
from all over the internet
🤫 Quiet Neighborhood Gem
Discover this peaceful temple, a welcome respite from busy Arashiyama spots. :leafy_green:
💰 Admission Fee
Entry is ¥500 per person, granting access to explore the temple buildings and grounds. :moneybag:
📸 No Photos Inside
Remember, photography is not allowed inside the main temple buildings. :camerawithflash:
🌸 Spring Plum Blossoms
Visit in early spring to enjoy the beautiful plum blossoms on the grounds. :cherry_blossom:
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
Allow ample time to wander the complex, including the garden and rear walkway. :walking:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors adore Seiryo-ji for its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful grounds, often finding it a quiet surprise near Arashiyama. The chance to explore the temple's interior and see national treasures is highly valued, though the no-photography rule inside is noted. It's recommended for those seeking a tranquil cultural experience.
"I adored this place. You do pay an admission fee, ¥500 per person, but you get to explore all of the inside which is just amazing. No pictures allowed on the inside, but we got a few of the outside and the garden"
Michael Alston
"A really cool Templt in a very quite neighbourhood. We found this place on our way to the quieter bamboo forest.
This was a nice surprise as it was incredibly quiet (8:45) and agaain at (9:45) when we came back. The grounds are nice to wonder around, and much quieter than many of the other temples in Kyoto."
antzarmy
"Nice and quiet temple. Good to have such a peaceful place like this after walking around the bamboo forest with so many people around."
Nguyen Lam Vuong
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Seiryo-ji Temple is located in the Ukyo Ward of Kyoto, near the Arashiyama area. You can reach it by bus from Kyoto Station, typically taking bus routes that stop near the temple. It's also a pleasant walk from some parts of Arashiyama, especially if you're looking for a quieter route away from the main tourist paths. Some visitors find it on their way to or from the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.
Yes, Seiryo-ji Temple is accessible by public transport. Several bus lines serve the area, making it convenient to reach from central Kyoto. Check local bus schedules for the most direct routes to the Seiryoji Temple stop.
Yes, it's possible to walk to Seiryo-ji from the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. It offers a more peaceful journey compared to the crowded main paths of Arashiyama. The walk can take around 20-30 minutes depending on your starting point within Arashiyama.
If you're in Arashiyama, consider Seiryo-ji as a quieter alternative or a stop on your way to other attractions. Many visitors stumble upon it and are pleasantly surprised by its tranquility.
Information on specific parking facilities at Seiryo-ji is limited, but it's generally recommended to use public transportation due to its accessibility and the convenience of navigating Kyoto's public transport system.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The admission fee for Seiryo-ji Temple is ¥500 per person. This fee grants you access to explore the temple buildings, including the main hall, and the surrounding grounds and gardens.
While the main temple complex has an admission fee, the exterior grounds and surrounding areas might be accessible without charge. However, to fully experience the temple's treasures, the ¥500 admission is recommended.
Opening hours for Seiryo-ji Temple can vary, but it's generally open during daylight hours. It's advisable to check the most current opening times before your visit, especially if you plan to go early or late.
Tickets for Seiryo-ji Temple are typically purchased on-site at the entrance. There's usually no need to book in advance, as it's less crowded than some of Kyoto's more famous temples.
Information on special passes or discounts for Seiryo-ji is not widely advertised. The standard admission fee of ¥500 is generally applied to all visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
No, photography is strictly prohibited inside the main temple buildings at Seiryo-ji. This is common practice in many Japanese temples to protect the sacred artifacts and maintain a respectful atmosphere.
You can take photos of the temple's exterior architecture, the beautiful landscaped gardens, and the surrounding grounds. The walkway behind the main hall offers lovely views.
Yes, despite the restrictions inside, the temple's architecture, serene gardens, and the peaceful ambiance provide excellent photo opportunities. The Oimatsuri fire festival is also a highly photogenic event.
The garden areas and the exterior of the main hall are prime spots for photography. The contrast of the traditional architecture against the natural landscape is quite striking.
Tripod usage rules can vary, but generally, it's best to avoid them in crowded areas or if they obstruct pathways. For Seiryo-ji, given its peaceful nature, it's likely permissible in designated outdoor areas, but always be mindful of other visitors.
🎫 🌸 Seasonal Events
The Oimatsuri (Sagashakado Fire Festival) is a significant event held annually on March 15th at Seiryo-ji. It features the lighting of three massive pine torches, each about 7 meters tall, symbolizing the coming of spring and predicting the year's harvest. It's one of Kyoto's three major fire festivals.
The plum blossoms at Seiryo-ji typically bloom in early spring, around February and March. Visitors in this period can enjoy the beautiful floral displays on the temple grounds.
While not as famous for autumn colors as some other Kyoto temples, the temple grounds and gardens will likely display beautiful fall foliage in late autumn, offering a serene experience.
The Oimatsuri is special due to its scale, with towering torches set ablaze, and its cultural significance in predicting the harvest. The spectacle draws large crowds and is a vibrant display of tradition.
Yes, the Oimatsuri fire festival on March 15th is a major event that attracts a significant number of visitors, making the temple grounds quite crowded.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack light snacks and water, as dining options directly at the temple are limited. The temple's quiet atmosphere is ideal for teaching children about respectful behavior in sacred spaces. If visiting in early spring, the plum blossoms can add an extra element of visual interest for kids.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers Seeking Peace
Take your time to wander through the gardens and appreciate the architectural details. The admission fee is reasonable, and the opportunity to explore the temple's interior (without photos) offers a unique, contemplative experience. It's a perfect spot to recharge and soak in the traditional Japanese atmosphere.
📸 Photographers
For a truly unique photographic opportunity, consider visiting on March 15th for the Oimatsuri Fire Festival. The dramatic spectacle of the towering pine torches ablaze is a photographer's dream, though it will be crowded. Be prepared for low-light conditions and fast-moving action if you aim to capture the festival.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of Seiryo-ji
One of the most striking aspects of Seiryo-ji is its connection to the Oimatsuri Fire Festival, held annually on March 15th. This vibrant event features the lighting of three massive pine torches, each standing approximately 7 meters tall. The intensity and behavior of the flames are believed to predict the year's harvest, making it a significant cultural and agricultural ritual. This festival is considered one of Kyoto's three major fire festivals and draws considerable attention.
Visitors often praise Seiryo-ji for its tranquility and the opportunity to explore the temple buildings, which contain valuable historical and religious artifacts. While photography is not permitted inside the main hall, the exterior beauty and the peaceful garden offer ample opportunities for appreciation and reflection. The temple's location makes it a perfect addition to an Arashiyama itinerary for those seeking a quieter, more contemplative experience.
Experiencing the Oimatsuri Fire Festival
The ritual is deeply symbolic, with the way the torches burn believed to forecast the success of the upcoming harvest. This practice connects the community to the land and its bounty, a tradition that has been passed down through generations. The sheer scale of the torches and the intensity of the flames create a dramatic and memorable spectacle against the night sky.
Due to its unique nature and cultural significance, the Oimatsuri festival attracts a large number of spectators, making the temple grounds quite crowded on this particular day. If you plan to attend, arriving early is recommended to secure a good viewing spot. It's an excellent opportunity to witness a powerful display of Japanese tradition and community spirit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit