Joruri-ji Temple Kizugawa
Tranquil Buddhist temple with a meticulously restored Heian-period garden and rare ancient statues.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peace
Joruri-ji Temple Kizugawa
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peace
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Tranquil Buddhist temple with a meticulously restored Heian-period garden and rare ancient statues.
"One of the top places I have been in Japan, with a one-of-a-kind original example of a nine-Amida statue hall."
🚶 Hike to Gansen-ji
Take the 2km trail to Gansen-ji Temple for a beautiful walk and double the temple experience. :athletic_shoe:
🅿️ Parking Fee
Parking is available for ¥300 per private car per visit. :car:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Nine-Amida Statue Hall
Hondo
Marvel at a rare, original hall housing nine Amida statues from the late Heian Period, nearly 1000 years old.
Historic Pagoda
Pagoda
Admire the ancient pagoda, which houses another venerable statue of Yakushi, the Buddha of healing.
Heian Period Garden
Garden
Wander through a meticulously restored garden centered around a placid pond, representing Amida Buddha's Western Paradise.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Tranquility
Getting There and Around
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶 Hike to Gansen-ji
Take the 2km trail to Gansen-ji Temple for a beautiful walk and double the temple experience. :athletic_shoe:
🅿️ Parking Fee
Parking is available for ¥300 per private car per visit. :car:
Stops between Nara and Uji?
Check Restoration Status
Long-term restoration may be ongoing; check before you visit to ensure full access. :informationdeskperson:
Local Eats & Souvenirs
Enjoy local food and browse the souvenir shop on-site. :ramen:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶 Hike to Gansen-ji
Take the 2km trail to Gansen-ji Temple for a beautiful walk and double the temple experience. :athletic_shoe:
🅿️ Parking Fee
Parking is available for ¥300 per private car per visit. :car:
Check Restoration Status
Long-term restoration may be ongoing; check before you visit to ensure full access. :informationdeskperson:
Local Eats & Souvenirs
Enjoy local food and browse the souvenir shop on-site. :ramen:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Joruri-ji Temple is lauded for its exceptionally beautiful and historically significant garden and architecture, particularly the nine Amida statues and pagoda. Visitors appreciate its tranquil atmosphere and the option for a scenic hike to a nearby temple. However, some find the restroom facilities basic, and ongoing restoration work might occasionally affect access.
"Beautiful temple and pagoda. Nice landscape. Easily accessible from the bus station with a short walk. Carparking spaces were available at ¥300 per private car per visit."
Martlet
"This place is so beautiful in autumn. There’re restaurants offering local food/simple meals, and a souvenir shop.
Parking was 300yen/entry."
Lydia
"One of the top places I have been in Japan. This temple has a one-of-a-kind original example of a nine-Amida statue hall of a kind common to the late Heian Period almost 1000 years ago. There is also a pagoda housing another ancient statue of Yakushi. the Buddha of healing. The entire garden centered around a placid pond represents a journey through the western paradise of Amida Buddha. The garden was extensively restored in the 1970s to a likeness of its state in the Heian Period. There is access by bus to Nara or paid parking. It's becoming a bit tourist-oriented but is still big enough to ensure some quiet. Currently, long-term restoration is taking place, so best check before going."
aaron meldahl
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Joruri-ji Temple by taking the city bus Tono line from Kamo Station, which runs approximately every hour and takes about 20 minutes.
Yes, paid parking is available for private cars at ¥300 per visit.
Absolutely! There's a nice 2km trail that takes about an hour to hike between Joruri-ji Temple and Gansen-ji Temple.
Joruri-ji Temple is accessible via bus connections from Nara, often with a transfer at Kamo Station.
Travelers often combine visits to Joruri-ji with Uji, typically using bus and train connections, with Kamo Station serving as a transit point.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary, and it's advisable to check the official temple website or local tourist information for the most up-to-date times, especially considering potential restoration work.
While specific admission fees are not always widely publicized, most historic temples in Japan do have a modest entrance fee to help with upkeep. It's best to be prepared for a small charge.
Advance booking is generally not required for Joruri-ji Temple, as it's a historical site rather than a ticketed event. However, for special occasions or group visits, it's wise to inquire.
The temple is known for its permanent collection, particularly the nine Amida statues and the Yakushi statue. Special events are rare, but checking local listings is recommended.
Visiting on a weekday morning or late afternoon is generally recommended to experience the temple's tranquility with fewer visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography inside the Hondo, where the nine Amida statues are housed, is typically restricted to protect the ancient artifacts. Always look for signage indicating photo policies.
The garden with its central pond and the pagoda are prime photography locations. Capturing the temple's architecture against the natural landscape is highly recommended.
Drone usage is generally prohibited at most temples and historical sites in Japan to ensure the peace and safety of visitors and the preservation of the structures.
Early morning or late afternoon light offers the most beautiful and soft illumination for photographing the temple and its garden, minimizing harsh shadows.
While exterior shots are usually fine, photography of the sacred statues inside the Hondo is almost always prohibited. Respect the temple's rules.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are restaurants offering local food and simple meals available on-site or very close to the temple grounds.
Expect traditional Japanese fare, likely featuring local specialties. It's a good place for a simple, satisfying meal during your visit.
While a full restaurant is mentioned, there might also be smaller snack options or vending machines available for refreshments.
Picnicking is generally discouraged at active religious sites to maintain their sanctity. It's best to dine at the designated eateries.
Options may be limited, but traditional Japanese cuisine often includes vegetable-based dishes. It's advisable to inquire about ingredients if you have dietary restrictions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the temple itself is serene, be mindful of the sacred nature of the site. The restrooms might be a point of concern for some, as one reviewer noted a less modern facility. Consider packing snacks and water, as dining options might be limited to simple meals. The beauty of the garden and the unique statues can be a gentle introduction to Japanese culture and history for children.
🚶 Hikers and Nature Lovers
The temple grounds themselves are also beautifully landscaped, with the central pond and surrounding greenery providing a tranquil setting for a leisurely stroll. The garden's design encourages a slow pace, allowing visitors to appreciate the natural beauty and the spiritual ambiance. It's a perfect spot for a peaceful walk and quiet reflection amidst stunning scenery.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Sacred Garden of Joruri-ji
This garden is not just visually stunning; it's a spiritual landscape intended to evoke feelings of peace and enlightenment. The restoration efforts in the 1970s were crucial in preserving this historical and cultural treasure, ensuring that future generations can appreciate its unique design and spiritual significance. The interplay of light and shadow throughout the day adds another layer to its beauty, inviting quiet reflection.
Many visitors find the garden to be the most captivating aspect of Joruri-ji, offering a peaceful respite from the bustling world. It’s a place where the architecture and nature blend seamlessly, creating an immersive experience that soothes the soul. The seasonal changes also bring new beauty to the garden, making it a worthwhile visit at different times of the year.
Architectural and Artistic Treasures
Adjacent to the Hondo stands an impressive pagoda, which contains another ancient statue of Yakushi, the Buddha of healing. The pagoda itself is a beautiful example of traditional Japanese temple architecture. Both the Hondo and the pagoda are central to the temple's spiritual and aesthetic appeal, drawing visitors interested in Japanese history, art, and Buddhism.
It's important to note that ongoing restoration work may be taking place at the temple. While this ensures the preservation of these precious structures and artifacts, it's always a good idea to check for any temporary closures or restricted access before your visit.




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