Joruri-ji Temple (Kizugawa) - Image 1
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Joruri-ji Temple Kizugawa

4.4
·1k reviews·Kizugawa, Japan

Tranquil Buddhist temple with a meticulously restored Heian-period garden and rare ancient statues.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more peace

CrowdLow
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Joruri-ji Temple (Kizugawa) - Image 1

Joruri-ji Temple Kizugawa

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more peace

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Tranquil Buddhist temple with a meticulously restored Heian-period garden and rare ancient statues.

4.4
(1k reviews)

"One of the top places I have been in Japan, with a one-of-a-kind original example of a nine-Amida statue hall."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶 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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Nine-Amida Statue Hall

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

Historic Pagoda

Pagoda

Admire the ancient pagoda, which houses another venerable statue of Yakushi, the Buddha of healing.

Heian Period Garden

Heian Period Garden

Garden

Wander through a meticulously restored garden centered around a placid pond, representing Amida Buddha's Western Paradise.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for Tranquility

While Joruri-ji Temple is a serene escape, it can attract visitors, especially during peak seasons. Consider visiting on weekdays to avoid crowds and fully immerse yourself in the peaceful garden and historic architecture. Check for any ongoing restoration work before your trip to ensure you can see all the highlights.

Getting There and Around

Joruri-ji Temple is accessible by bus from Kamo Station, running hourly, or via paid parking. For the adventurous, a scenic 2km hike connects Joruri-ji to Gansen-ji Temple, offering a unique way to experience the local landscape.

Best Times

When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more peace
Crowd
Low
When
Autumn
Why
Stunning fall foliage
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Jōruri-ji (浄瑠璃寺) is a Buddhist temple located in the Nishio Futaba, Kamo-cho neighborhood of the city of Kizugawa, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan.
andesmode
20 likes • 206 views

🚶 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:

... 浄瑠璃寺 浄瑠璃寺 Joruriji Temple 京都府木津川市 Kizugawa City, Kyoto Prefecture 撮影/編集 @asa.iori _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ #浄瑠璃寺 #寺 #temple . . .
asa.iori
90 likes • 808 views
reddit.com

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

4.4
(1k reviews)

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

Beautiful historic garden
Rare Amida statues
Peaceful atmosphere

What People Dislike

Basic restroom facilities
Potential restoration work

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. Reddit

Yes, paid parking is available for private cars at ¥300 per visit. Reddit

Absolutely! There's a nice 2km trail that takes about an hour to hike between Joruri-ji Temple and Gansen-ji Temple. Reddit

Joruri-ji Temple is accessible via bus connections from Nara, often with a transfer at Kamo Station. Reddit

Travelers often combine visits to Joruri-ji with Uji, typically using bus and train connections, with Kamo Station serving as a transit point. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Visiting on a weekday morning or late afternoon is generally recommended to experience the temple's tranquility with fewer visitors. Reddit

📸 📸 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. TikTok

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. Instagram

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. TikTok

Early morning or late afternoon light offers the most beautiful and soft illumination for photographing the temple and its garden, minimizing harsh shadows. Instagram

While exterior shots are usually fine, photography of the sacred statues inside the Hondo is almost always prohibited. Respect the temple's rules. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there are restaurants offering local food and simple meals available on-site or very close to the temple grounds. Reddit

Expect traditional Japanese fare, likely featuring local specialties. It's a good place for a simple, satisfying meal during your visit. Reddit

While a full restaurant is mentioned, there might also be smaller snack options or vending machines available for refreshments. Reddit

Picnicking is generally discouraged at active religious sites to maintain their sanctity. It's best to dine at the designated eateries. Reddit

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. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Joruri-ji Temple offers a peaceful environment that can be appreciated by families, though it's more suited for quiet contemplation than active play. The spacious garden provides room to wander, and the historic buildings can spark curiosity. The short, scenic hike to Gansen-ji Temple is also a great way to incorporate some light activity into your visit. Reddit

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. Reddit 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

For those who enjoy a bit of exploration, the 2km hike between Joruri-ji Temple and Gansen-ji Temple is a must-do. This trail offers a chance to experience the local landscape and connect with nature between visiting these historic sites. Reddit The path is described as a 'nice trail hike,' making it accessible for most fitness levels. Reddit

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

The garden at Joruri-ji Temple is a masterpiece of Heian period landscape design, meticulously restored to its former glory. Centered around a tranquil pond, it's designed to represent the Pure Land of Amida Buddha, a concept central to Pure Land Buddhism. Visitors can walk the perimeter of the pond, experiencing the garden's serene beauty and symbolic representation of a journey to paradise. The careful placement of rocks, trees, and water features creates a harmonious and contemplative atmosphere, making it a highlight for many visitors. InstagramReddit

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. TikTok

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. Instagram

Architectural and Artistic Treasures

Joruri-ji Temple is renowned for its significant architectural and artistic heritage, particularly its Hondo (main hall). This structure houses a rare collection of nine Amida Buddha statues, dating back to the late Heian Period, making it a historically invaluable site. These statues are a prime example of the artistic styles and religious devotion of that era. Reddit

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

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