Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Kyoto
Serene hilltop temple with thousands of stone statues and a peaceful bamboo grove, offering a contemplative escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds for a peaceful visit.
Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Kyoto
Best Time
Beat the crowds for a peaceful visit.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Serene hilltop temple with thousands of stone statues and a peaceful bamboo grove, offering a contemplative escape.
"A hidden gem offering a spiritual and peaceful experience away from Kyoto's tourist crowds."
🎯 Skip Arashiyama Crowds
Opt for Adashino Nenbutsu-ji for a tranquil bamboo forest experience.
🚌 Easy Access via Bus
Bus #92 from near Tenryu-ji station goes directly to the temple.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Thousands of Stone Statues
Temple Grounds
Over 8,000 Jizo statues memorialize souls without proper burial, creating a unique and contemplative atmosphere.
Secluded Bamboo Grove
Temple Grounds
A peaceful bamboo forest offering a quieter photography experience compared to Arashiyama.
+2
Peaceful Temple Grounds
Temple Grounds
Explore the serene hilltop temple, offering a spiritual and reflective experience away from tourist throngs.
+1Planning Your Visit
Escape the Arashiyama Crowds
+2Getting There & Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Skip Arashiyama Crowds
Opt for Adashino Nenbutsu-ji for a tranquil bamboo forest experience.
🚌 Easy Access via Bus
Bus #92 from near Tenryu-ji station goes directly to the temple.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The bamboo grove offers great photo opportunities without the crowds.
🚶♀️ Scenic Walk Option
A 25-minute walk from Saga-Arashiyama station is possible, with shops and sights along the way. +1
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Skip Arashiyama Crowds
Opt for Adashino Nenbutsu-ji for a tranquil bamboo forest experience.
🚌 Easy Access via Bus
Bus #92 from near Tenryu-ji station goes directly to the temple.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The bamboo grove offers great photo opportunities without the crowds.
🚶♀️ Scenic Walk Option
A 25-minute walk from Saga-Arashiyama station is possible, with shops and sights along the way. +1
💰 Affordable Entry
Admission is only 500 yen, making it a cost-effective visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Adashino Nenbutsu-ji is praised as a tranquil and spiritual alternative to the crowded Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, offering a unique experience with its thousands of stone statues and peaceful bamboo grove. Visitors appreciate its affordability and quiet atmosphere, making it a highly recommended hidden gem for a reflective visit.
"An interesting alternative to the main bamboo forest, but it’s really small and quick to see. Since it’s a cemetery, it’s more reflective than a park, so keep that in mind. It’s a long walk from the station, so definitely consider taking a taxi or Uber to save time."
Rodrigo Branchini
"There is a small bamboo forest inside. Although it is not big, it is super suitable for taking photos📸
The point is that the ticket price is only 500 yen/adult, which is cost-effective!
There is also a toilet ✨ It is very clean and reassuring, which is worth adding points.
A good choice for a leisurely half-day tour ~ Recommended!"
YeeCun Doo
"5 🌟
We didn't want the crowds of Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, so we checked out this place. After a lovely 25-minute walk from the station, we arrived at Adashino Nenbutusji Temple a few minutes after 9, and there was next to no people here.
We checked out the short Bamboo forest path, got our photos, and then checked out the grounds.
On our way back to the station, 9:30 quite a fair few people were on their way up to visit, so definitely go early!
Pros
🌟 Much quieter than Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
🌟 It's beautiful
🌟 nice walk through quiete neighbourhoods
Cons
- None"
antzarmy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Kyoto Station, take a train to Saga-Arashiyama Station. From there, you can either take a 25-minute scenic walk to the temple, catch bus #92 (which stops near Tenryu-ji), or take a taxi.
Yes, it's about a 2km walk from Saga-Arashiyama station, and some visitors enjoy walking through quaint neighborhoods and past other temples. However, it is uphill. +1
To save time, consider taking a taxi directly to the temple from Arashiyama or the nearest station.
Bus #92 is a reliable option from near Tenryu-ji. Bus #94 also runs, but less frequently (once an hour).
Yes, renting an electric bicycle is a convenient way to explore the area and reach Adashino Nenbutsu-ji, especially if you plan to visit other nearby spots.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The temple is typically open from 8:00 AM to 3:30 PM or 4:30 PM, but it's always a good idea to check their official website for the most current hours.
Admission is very affordable, usually around 500 yen per adult, making it a great value.
No, advance booking is generally not required. Tickets can be purchased upon arrival at the temple.
Yes, be mindful of signage indicating areas where photography is not permitted to respect the sacred nature of the site.
Yes, it's often described as a place for a leisurely half-day tour, and you can see the main attractions relatively quickly.
📸 📸 Photography
Absolutely! The secluded bamboo grove and the thousands of stone statues offer unique and atmospheric photo opportunities, especially compared to the crowded Arashiyama.
Late afternoons are recommended for the golden light hitting the bamboo trees, creating a magical ambiance.
Yes, Adashino Nenbutsu-ji is known for its less crowded bamboo forest, allowing for much better and more personal photography experiences.
The main bamboo path and the areas with the dense collection of Jizo statues are particularly photogenic.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. Consider a wide-angle lens for the bamboo grove and a prime lens for portraits among the statues.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
It's famous for its serene hilltop location, a peaceful bamboo grove, and over 8,000 stone Jizo statues memorializing souls.
Adashino Nenbutsu-ji offers a much quieter and more contemplative experience, with a smaller but equally beautiful bamboo grove.
Yes, you can visit nearby Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple and walk along the historic Saga Toriimoto Preserved Street.
The atmosphere is deeply spiritual, peaceful, and reflective, offering a unique sense of calm and history.
Yes, clean and well-maintained restrooms are available, which is a convenient amenity for visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing snacks and drinks, as options directly at the temple might be limited. If you're concerned about the uphill walk, a taxi or bus is a good option to conserve energy for exploring the temple grounds. The clean restrooms are also a plus for families.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The unique landscape of thousands of Jizo statues also provides endless opportunities for evocative and artistic compositions. Remember to be respectful of the site's spiritual nature and adhere to any photography restrictions. While a standard camera or smartphone will suffice, a wide-angle lens can be beneficial for capturing the expanse of the bamboo grove.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers
Getting there via public transport or a leisurely walk allows for a sense of independence and discovery. The affordability of the entrance fee also makes it an accessible option for budget-conscious solo travelers.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of the Jizo Statues
Many visitors find the sight of these countless statues to be both somber and beautiful. The statues are arranged throughout the temple grounds, creating a sense of quiet reverence. It's a place that encourages reflection on life, loss, and remembrance. The temple grounds also feature a small, serene bamboo grove, providing a peaceful contrast to the solemnity of the statues.
+1When visiting, it's important to be respectful of the site's spiritual significance. While photography is generally allowed, there are designated areas where it may be restricted, so pay attention to any signage. The overall experience is one of tranquility and introspection, making it a worthwhile detour from the more crowded parts of Kyoto.
Navigating to Adashino Nenbutsu-ji
Alternatively, public transportation offers more direct routes. Bus number 92, which departs from a stop near Tenryu-ji Temple, will take you right to Adashino Nenbutsu-ji. For those on a tighter schedule or who prefer convenience, a taxi from Arashiyama is also a viable option, typically costing between 1,500 to 1,800 yen.
For those who enjoy cycling, renting an electric bicycle is a popular and efficient way to explore this area of Kyoto. It allows for flexibility in visiting multiple temples and attractions at your own pace, including Adashino Nenbutsu-ji and the nearby Otagi Nenbutsu-ji.
An Alternative to Arashiyama's Crowds
+2This temple is often described as a 'hidden gem' by visitors who appreciate its tranquil atmosphere and unique spiritual ambiance. The experience here is less about the grand scale of Arashiyama and more about quiet contemplation and appreciation of the subtle beauty. The opportunity to take unobstructed photos in a bamboo forest is a significant draw for many.
+1Beyond the bamboo, the temple's historical significance and the thousands of memorial statues contribute to its distinct charm. It provides a different kind of beauty – one that is reflective and deeply rooted in tradition. For those looking to experience Kyoto's natural beauty without the tourist crush, Adashino Nenbutsu-ji is a highly recommended alternative.
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