Shuzenji Temple
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Shuzenji Temple

4.1
·2k reviews·Izu, Japan

A historic Buddhist temple on the Izu Peninsula, known for its serene bamboo forest, charming onsen town, and tranquil atmosphere.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peace

CrowdLow
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Shuzenji Temple

Shuzenji Temple

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peace

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic Buddhist temple on the Izu Peninsula, known for its serene bamboo forest, charming onsen town, and tranquil atmosphere.

4.1
(2k reviews)

"This temple and whole town around it is really adorable."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Stroll the Bamboo Path

Don't miss the serene bamboo forest walk adjacent to the temple for a truly peaceful experience.

🍦 Try Wasabi Ice Cream

Sample the unique local flavor of wasabi ice cream in the charming town.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Shuzenji Temple Grounds

Shuzenji Temple Grounds

Main temple complex

A historic Buddhist temple with over 1,200 years of history, offering a serene atmosphere and beautiful gardens.

Shuzenji Bamboo Forest

Shuzenji Bamboo Forest

Adjacent to the temple

Wander through a picturesque bamboo grove, a tranquil path offering a peaceful escape and stunning photo opportunities.

Shuzenji Onsen Town

Shuzenji Onsen Town

Surrounding the temple

Explore the charming hot spring town, featuring historic ryokans, unique shops, and the iconic red bridge.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for Tranquility

Shuzenji Temple offers a serene escape, but crowds can detract from its peaceful atmosphere. Consider visiting during weekdays or early mornings to avoid the peak tourist rush, especially if you're seeking a quiet contemplation of its historic grounds and the adjacent bamboo forest. Instagram

Embrace the Local Charm

Beyond the temple itself, the surrounding town of Shuzenji is a highlight. Explore its charming streets, discover unique shops, and don't miss trying local delicacies like wasabi ice cream. The proximity to hot springs and scenic spots makes it a well-rounded destination. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peace
Crowd
Low
When
Autumn
Why
Stunning maple foliage
Crowd
Medium
When
Spring
Why
Cherry blossoms
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

This place was so magical that it almost didn’t feel real ✨ 📍Asaba Ryokan, Shuzenji, Japan #asabaryokan #asaba #ryokan #japaneseryokan #luxuryjapaneseryokan
@agirlwhoadventures
19.2K likes • 75.6K views

🚶‍♀️ Stroll the Bamboo Path

Don't miss the serene bamboo forest walk adjacent to the temple for a truly peaceful experience. Instagram

🍦 Try Wasabi Ice Cream

Sample the unique local flavor of wasabi ice cream in the charming town. Instagram

Shuzenji is a town located in Shizuoka Prefecture in central Izu Peninsula. It is known as a hot spring resort town ♨️ and includes a temple, bamboo forest, and several historic ryokans. It’s only a 2 hour drive from Tokyo! 静岡県の修繕寺は伊豆半島の中心して温泉で有名です。お寺や竹林や旅館などの面白いことがあります。東京から車で二時間掛かります! _______________________________________________ Follow @sherry_films for more travel content and tips! 💕🫶🏻 旅...
sherry_films
146 likes • 7K views
令和7年10月15日 朝課 おはようございます。 朝から雨。雨音の中、朝課を行ないました。 本日は15日。いつもより長めのお勤めです。 すっかり肌寒くなりました。秋の訪れを感じます。 境内、雨で滑りやすくなっております。ご参詣の際はご注意下さいませ。 #修禅寺 #静岡県伊豆市 #曹洞宗 #禅宗 #修善寺温泉 #shuzenjitemple #shuzenji #japan #japantrip #japantravel #sizuoka
shuzenji.temple
25 likes • 135 views

♨️ Relax in the Onsen

Experience the rejuvenating hot springs that the town is famous for. Reddit

☔ Be Mindful of Rain

The temple grounds can be slippery when wet; exercise caution. Instagram

📍修禅寺 Shuzenji Temple, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan 🔖 Save this reel for your next Japan trip and follow @haoji_films for daily reels 😉 . Shuzenji Temple, located in the Izu Peninsula, is a historic Buddhist temple with roots dating back over 1,200 years. Founded by the famous monk Kobo Daishi, the temple is known for its serene atmosphere, beautiful gardens, and bamboo grove. 伊豆半島にある修善寺は、1200年以上の歴史を...
haoji_films
0 likes • 3.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Stroll the Bamboo Path

Don't miss the serene bamboo forest walk adjacent to the temple for a truly peaceful experience. Instagram

🍦 Try Wasabi Ice Cream

Sample the unique local flavor of wasabi ice cream in the charming town. Instagram

♨️ Relax in the Onsen

Experience the rejuvenating hot springs that the town is famous for. Reddit

☔ Be Mindful of Rain

The temple grounds can be slippery when wet; exercise caution. Instagram

💰 Museum Entry Fee

A small museum within the temple offers a glimpse into its history for a modest fee. [^Review]

What Travellers Say

4.1
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Shuzenji Temple for its serene beauty, historic charm, and the picturesque bamboo forest. The surrounding onsen town is noted for its quaint atmosphere, unique local treats like wasabi ice cream, and relaxing hot springs. Some visitors have encountered disruptive tourist groups, which can detract from the peaceful experience.

"Very nice temple in a cute little town. You can spend a few hours here (temple and streets around it). There's a small museum in the temple that cost 300 yen to enter. It had some nice old masks so I think it was worth it."

Matthijs

"This temple and whole town around it is really adorable. We tried some wasabi ice cream, and the hop&cold spring"

H Yu

"Nice temple with a museum, onsen-water for purifying your hands, and a collection of very nice Goshuin."

Sarah Hasselman

What People Like

Beautiful temple and gardens
Magical bamboo forest
Charming onsen town

What People Dislike

Disruptive tourist groups

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Shuzenji Temple is conveniently located about a two-hour drive from Tokyo, making it a feasible day trip. You can also reach it by train, typically involving a Shinkansen to Mishima Station followed by a local train or bus to Shuzenji. Instagram

Yes, Shuzenji Temple is accessible by public transport. Buses run from Shuzenji Station to the temple and the surrounding town, making it easy to explore the area without a car. Reddit

The best way to explore Shuzenji town is on foot. The temple, bamboo forest, hot springs, and shops are all within walking distance of each other, allowing for a leisurely discovery of its charm. Instagram

Yes, there are parking facilities available near Shuzenji Temple, which can be convenient if you are traveling by car. However, parking may be limited during peak seasons. TikTok

Absolutely! Shuzenji Temple is a popular day trip destination from Tokyo, taking approximately two hours to reach by car or a combination of train and local transport. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The grounds of Shuzenji Temple are generally free to enter, allowing visitors to enjoy the serene atmosphere and gardens. However, there is a small fee to enter the temple's museum. [^Review]

Shuzenji Temple is typically open daily from morning until late afternoon. It's advisable to check the specific hours closer to your visit, as they can vary seasonally. Instagram

No, advance booking is generally not required for visiting Shuzenji Temple itself, as entry to the grounds is usually free. Tickets are only needed if you wish to visit the small museum within the temple. [^Review]

The description mentions outdoor summer concerts, suggesting that the temple may host special events. It's worth checking local event listings for any scheduled activities during your visit. [^Description]

The museum within Shuzenji Temple has a modest entrance fee, reported to be around 300 yen, which many visitors find worthwhile for the historical artifacts displayed. [^Review]

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

At Shuzenji Temple, you can explore the historic temple buildings, wander through its serene gardens, and visit the adjacent bamboo forest. The temple also has a small museum and offers onsen water for hand purification. Instagram [^Review]

Yes, the bamboo forest adjacent to Shuzenji Temple is highly recommended for its tranquil beauty and picturesque scenery, offering a peaceful walk and great photo opportunities. Instagram

This refers to a traditional purification ritual where visitors can wash their hands with naturally heated spring water, often found at the entrance of temples and shrines in hot spring towns like Shuzenji. [^Review]

Photography is generally permitted in the outdoor areas of Shuzenji Temple and its gardens. However, it's always respectful to check for any specific signage regarding photography inside temple buildings or the museum. Instagram

To best experience the Shuzenji Temple area, combine a visit to the temple and its bamboo forest with a stroll through the charming onsen town, perhaps trying local treats and enjoying the riverside. InstagramReddit

📸 📸 Photography

The most photogenic spots include the main temple hall, the serene bamboo forest, the iconic red bridge in the town, and the surrounding gardens, especially during autumn foliage or cherry blossom season. Instagram+1

Yes, Shuzenji Temple is beautiful year-round. Spring offers cherry blossoms, summer has lush greenery, autumn boasts vibrant maple leaves, and winter can provide a quiet, atmospheric charm. Instagram [^Review]

A versatile lens, such as a 24-70mm or a prime lens like a 35mm or 50mm, is great for capturing both the temple's architecture and the natural beauty of the bamboo forest. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the bamboo grove. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted at religious sites and historical landmarks in Japan to ensure the peace and safety of visitors. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise. Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a more tranquil atmosphere. Golden hour can create beautiful, warm tones. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Shuzenji Temple and its surrounding town offer a pleasant experience for families. The bamboo forest provides a fun and visually engaging walk for children, and the temple grounds are spacious enough for them to explore. Trying the unique wasabi ice cream can be a fun treat for kids. Instagram While the temple itself is a place of quiet contemplation, the town offers more interactive elements like shops and the chance to see traditional inns. Consider visiting during less crowded times to ensure a more relaxed experience for everyone. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers

Shuzenji is an excellent destination for solo travelers seeking peace and cultural immersion. The serene atmosphere of the temple and bamboo forest is perfect for quiet reflection. Instagram Exploring the charming onsen town at your own pace, sampling local treats like wasabi ice cream, and perhaps enjoying a foot bath at the outdoor onsen are all enjoyable solo activities. Instagram The manageable size of the area makes it easy to navigate and discover its hidden gems without feeling overwhelmed. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Shuzenji offers a wealth of opportunities. The historic temple architecture, the ethereal bamboo forest, and the picturesque red bridge in the town are all prime subjects. Instagram Visiting during autumn for the vibrant maple leaves or spring for cherry blossoms will add stunning color to your shots. [^Review] The soft morning or late afternoon light will enhance the mood and detail of your photographs. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Significance of Shuzenji Temple

Founded in 807 AD by the renowned Buddhist monk Kobo Daishi (Kukai), Shuzenji Temple (officially Fukuchizan Shuzen Bannan Zen-ji Temple) boasts a history spanning over 1,200 years. Instagram Originally known as Keikokusan-ji Temple when the area was called Keikoku, it has been a significant spiritual site on the Izu Peninsula. The temple is a Zen temple of the Soto sect and continues to offer a place of tranquility and reflection. Instagram Its historical importance is underscored by its connection to prominent figures and its enduring presence in the region. Instagram

The temple's location in Shuzenji, a town renowned for its hot springs, adds another layer to its appeal. The area itself has a rich history, with the temple being a central point of interest. Visitors often find the serene atmosphere conducive to contemplation, a testament to its long-standing spiritual heritage. Instagram The temple's architecture and the surrounding natural beauty contribute to its timeless charm, making it a destination that resonates with both history buffs and those seeking peace. Instagram

Exploring the Shuzenji Onsen Town

Shuzenji is not just about the temple; it's a charming onsen (hot spring) resort town that offers a delightful experience for visitors. Instagram The town is characterized by its historic ryokans (traditional Japanese inns), quaint boutique shops, and inviting cafes, all nestled along the picturesque river. [^Review] A walk through its streets reveals a blend of traditional Japanese aesthetics and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Instagram

One of the most iconic features of Shuzenji town is its historic outdoor onsen, a place where visitors can soak their feet and relax. [^Review] The town is also famous for its unique local delicacies, with wasabi ice cream being a must-try for adventurous foodies. Instagram The proximity of the town to the temple and the bamboo forest makes it easy to combine a cultural visit with a relaxing onsen experience and culinary exploration, creating a well-rounded itinerary. Reddit

The Enchanting Shuzenji Bamboo Forest

Adjacent to Shuzenji Temple lies the Shuzenji Bamboo Forest, a truly enchanting natural attraction. Instagram Walking through this grove offers a sense of peace and wonder, with towering bamboo stalks creating a natural canopy that filters the sunlight. The rustling of the bamboo leaves in the wind provides a soothing soundtrack to your exploration. Instagram

This bamboo path is a popular spot for visitors seeking a tranquil escape and beautiful photographic opportunities. Instagram It's a relatively short walk but incredibly impactful, offering a stark contrast to the temple's architecture and the bustling town. The serene environment makes it an ideal place for quiet reflection and connecting with nature. Instagram

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