Tenjo-ji Mount Maya
Historic mountain temple with serene zen gardens and breathtaking Kobe views, famous for autumn butterflies.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Tenjo-ji Mount Maya
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic mountain temple with serene zen gardens and breathtaking Kobe views, famous for autumn butterflies.
"A beautiful temple up in the mountains with a nice zen garden and wonderful views."
🚶♀️ Avoid Oji Station Walk
Take a bus or taxi to the Maya Ropeway to save energy for exploring the temple.
🦋 Butterfly Season
Visit in autumn for a chance to see the beautiful Asagimadara butterflies.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Mountain Views
Breathtaking vistas of Kobe and beyond await from this elevated temple sanctuary.
Zen Garden Serenity
Find peace in the meticulously maintained Japanese stone garden, a haven of calm.
Asagimadara Butterflies
Witness the enchanting dance of Asagimadara butterflies amidst the temple grounds.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Tranquility
Getting to the Mountain Temple
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Avoid Oji Station Walk
Take a bus or taxi to the Maya Ropeway to save energy for exploring the temple.
🦋 Butterfly Season
Visit in autumn for a chance to see the beautiful Asagimadara butterflies.
🧘♀️ Seek Solitude
Weekdays offer a high chance of having the temple and its views to yourself.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
Be prepared for walking and some uphill climbs around the temple grounds. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Avoid Oji Station Walk
Take a bus or taxi to the Maya Ropeway to save energy for exploring the temple.
🦋 Butterfly Season
Visit in autumn for a chance to see the beautiful Asagimadara butterflies.
🧘♀️ Seek Solitude
Weekdays offer a high chance of having the temple and its views to yourself.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
Be prepared for walking and some uphill climbs around the temple grounds. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Tenjo-ji Temple for its stunning mountain views, peaceful zen garden, and the unique opportunity to see Asagimadara butterflies. The temple's secluded nature offers a tranquil escape, though reaching it requires some planning regarding transportation.
"Very beautiful temple up in the mountains. Once you take the cable car, getting to the temple is a 15-20 minute walk.
Careful you dont take express train and miss your stop (had to go back) and I would recommend to take a bus or a taxi up to the cable car. 30 minutes walking uphill from Oji station and by the time I reached the cable car I was almost dead."
Ahara Darkspear
"A temple with a nice zen garden. Since it's quite secluded, there's a high chance you'll find yourself alone in this place of peace and tranquility when you get there. When I arrived, no one was there, I've spent a while on the place and just one group of three people arrived and then left. There's also a beautiful view."
Marian Pekár
"We stopped here during our walk on Maya mountain. It's a great temple with beautiful views and zen gardens settled on the hill in the pure nature."
Tomáš Jenikovský
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common route involves taking the Maya Ropeway. From Kobe's Sannomiya Station, you can take a bus (e.g., #16 or #106) or a taxi to the Maya Cable Car station, then transfer to the ropeway. Walking from Oji Station is an option but is a steep 30-minute uphill hike.
While there might be limited parking near the Maya Cable Car station, it's generally recommended to use public transport due to the mountain location.
No, there isn't a direct train station. You'll need to combine train travel with a bus, taxi, or cable car/ropeway.
The Maya Ropeway is a cable car system that ascends Mount Maya, providing access to the temple and scenic viewpoints. It's a key part of reaching the temple.
After disembarking the Maya Ropeway, it's about a 15-20 minute walk to reach Tenjo-ji Temple.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Information regarding specific entrance fees for the temple itself is not widely detailed, but the Maya Ropeway and Cable Car will have separate fares.
Temple hours can vary, but it's generally accessible during daylight hours. It's advisable to check local listings or inquire beforehand if you have specific timing needs.
Advance booking for the Maya Ropeway is usually not required, but it's always a good idea to check their official website for any updates or special advisories, especially during peak seasons.
While not explicitly mentioned in social media, temples often have seasonal events or ceremonies. Checking local event calendars closer to your visit might reveal opportunities.
Yes, if you're efficient with your transport, a visit to the temple, its garden, and the views can be done in a couple of hours.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Visitors can admire the historic temple buildings, a beautiful Japanese zen garden, and enjoy stunning panoramic views of Kobe. The temple is also known for the Asagimadara butterflies.
Absolutely! The temple, its gardens, the mountain scenery, and the butterflies offer numerous picturesque opportunities.
Founded in 646 AD by an Indian priest, it's dedicated to Queen Mahamaya, Buddha's mother. It's known for its historical roots and spiritual significance.
Yes, Tenjo-ji Temple is situated on Mount Maya, which offers hiking trails. Many visitors combine their temple visit with a hike.
It's often described as secluded with few visitors, especially on weekdays, offering a peaceful experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There is a cafe called 'Chai Mill' near the temple that offers refreshments and a place to rest.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally acceptable to have a picnic in designated areas on mountains, but be mindful of temple etiquette and cleanliness.
The area around the Maya Ropeway and Cable Car stations might have some snack vendors or small eateries, but for a full meal, it's best to dine in Kobe city before or after your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The zen garden, the temple architecture, panoramic city views, and the Asagimadara butterflies are prime subjects.
The butterflies are most active and visible during autumn, typically from October to November.
Photography rules can vary within active temples. It's best to look for signage or ask temple staff if photography is permitted inside sacred areas.
A versatile lens for landscapes and close-ups of butterflies would be ideal. A wide-angle lens is great for the views, and a telephoto can help capture butterflies. :camerawithflash:
Drone usage is typically restricted in and around religious sites and national parks. It's best to assume drones are not permitted to avoid issues.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be prepared for some walking, so comfortable shoes are a must. Consider bringing snacks and drinks, as dining options are limited to a cafe. The temple's historical significance and the natural beauty of Mount Maya can make for an educational and memorable family trip.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
Many trails lead to or pass by the temple, offering opportunities to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the mountain. The panoramic views from the temple are a perfect reward for your efforts. Remember to wear appropriate hiking gear and carry water.
🧘♀️ Solo Travelers Seeking Peace
The zen garden provides a perfect space for quiet contemplation. The journey up Mount Maya via the ropeway is also an experience in itself, offering moments of reflection amidst the natural beauty.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Tenjo-ji Temple
While the temple has ancient origins, it has undergone reconstructions, notably after a fire in the 1970s. Despite rebuilding, it retains its historical essence and continues to be a place of worship and contemplation. The temple is revered for its association with 'Maya-Bunin' (Queen Mahamaya), believed to reside in Toriten, the heaven of the 33 gods.
Visitors often come seeking blessings for women's protection, safe childbirth, and the well-being of children, highlighting the temple's enduring role in providing spiritual comfort and support to its devotees.
Experiencing the Asagimadara Butterflies
The butterflies are attracted to the nectar of the flowers around the temple, creating a beautiful spectacle as they flutter amongst the blossoms and the temple grounds. Seeing them is considered a special treat, and their presence adds a magical element to the serene mountain setting.
While sightings can vary year to year due to weather conditions, visiting in October and November significantly increases your chances of encountering these delicate creatures. Their graceful dance is a highlight for many visitors, making the journey to Mount Maya even more rewarding.
Navigating the Ascent to Mount Maya
Many visitors opt for public transport to reach the cable car station. Buses from Kobe city center are a convenient option, though some travelers recommend taking a taxi to save time and effort, especially if carrying luggage or if mobility is a concern.
It's important to note that walking from Oji Station directly to the cable car is a significant uphill trek, estimated at 30 minutes, which can be quite strenuous. Planning your transport in advance can ensure a more comfortable and enjoyable experience, allowing you to focus on the temple and its surroundings.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit