Jojakko-ji Kyoto
A serene Buddhist temple in Kyoto's Arashiyama, offering stunning city views and vibrant autumn colors.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds, find peace
Jojakko-ji Kyoto
Best Time
Beat the crowds, find peace
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene Buddhist temple in Kyoto's Arashiyama, offering stunning city views and vibrant autumn colors.
"A beautiful, somewhat hidden temple offering peace and breathtaking views."
🎯 Beat the Crowds
Visit early morning or late afternoon to enjoy the temple's tranquility and avoid peak tourist times.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
There are many stairs and paths; comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the grounds.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Kyoto Views
Top of the hill
Hike to the summit for breathtaking, sweeping views of Kyoto city. A rewarding climb through serene grounds.
Lush Greenery & Gardens
Temple grounds
Wander through meticulously maintained gardens and serene forest paths, offering a peaceful, natural escape.
Autumn Foliage Spectacle
Entire temple grounds
Famous for its vibrant autumn colors, the maples transform Jojakko-ji into a fiery, picturesque wonderland.
Planning Your Visit
Escape the Crowds at Jojakko-ji
Timing is Key for Tranquility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Beat the Crowds
Visit early morning or late afternoon to enjoy the temple's tranquility and avoid peak tourist times.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
There are many stairs and paths; comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the grounds.
💰 Worth the Small Fee
The ¥500 admission is well worth it for the stunning views and serene atmosphere.
🚶♀️ Hike for the Views
Climb to the top of the hill for a beautiful panoramic view of Kyoto city. +1
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Beat the Crowds
Visit early morning or late afternoon to enjoy the temple's tranquility and avoid peak tourist times.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
There are many stairs and paths; comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the grounds.
💰 Worth the Small Fee
The ¥500 admission is well worth it for the stunning views and serene atmosphere.
🚶♀️ Hike for the Views
Climb to the top of the hill for a beautiful panoramic view of Kyoto city. +1
🌿 Enjoy the Greenery
Beyond autumn, the temple's lush gardens and bamboo offer a peaceful, refreshing experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Jojakko-ji Temple for its serene atmosphere, beautiful gardens, and breathtaking panoramic views of Kyoto, especially during autumn. It's often highlighted as a peaceful escape from the crowds, offering great value for its modest admission fee. Some note that while the lower grounds are accessible, the hike to the top involves many stairs.
"Beautiful gardens off the beaten track. If you want to find some zen in a quieter area visit this temple. Only 500 yen per adult. The bamboo forest was ridiculously packed with tourists at 11am as we were leaving."
Ren
"a beautiful, somewhat hidden temple. if you climb up a short hike, you have a beautiful view over kyoto. the temple grounds are very well maintained bur still kept true to their age. absolutely worth a visit"
me now
"Beautiful complex, and so much less crowded than the bamboo forest. Go here after you get annoyed with the hordes. Lots of stairs, climb all the way to the top for a nice view of Kyoto."
Kellan Fabjance
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Jojakko-ji Temple is accessible via public transport. From Kyoto Station, take the JR Sagano Line to 'Saga-Arashiyama Station'. Alternatively, the Keifuku Electric Railroad (Randen) line offers a scenic route, with a 20-minute walk from Arashiyama Station. 
Yes, Jojakko-ji Temple is located in the Arashiyama district, making it a convenient addition to a visit to the famous Bamboo Grove. However, it offers a much quieter experience.
Taxis are available in Kyoto, but they can be more expensive. Public transport is generally recommended for reaching Jojakko-ji, especially if you're exploring other parts of Arashiyama.
Walking is the best way to explore the Arashiyama area, including Jojakko-ji, the Bamboo Grove, and Tenryu-ji Temple. The distances are manageable for a pleasant stroll.
Information on dedicated parking at Jojakko-ji is limited. It's advisable to use public parking lots in the Arashiyama area if you are driving, or opt for public transportation to avoid parking hassles.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The admission fee for Jojakko-ji Temple is ¥500 per adult. This fee is considered very reasonable for the beauty and experience offered.
Jojakko-ji Temple is typically open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It's always a good idea to check the official website or local listings for any seasonal changes or special closures.
Advance booking is generally not required for Jojakko-ji Temple. Tickets can be purchased upon arrival at the temple entrance.
While the temple grounds are beautiful, there are many stairs and uneven paths, so it might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues. However, the lower gardens are more accessible.
The Japan Rail Pass covers JR lines, so it can be used to get to Saga-Arashiyama Station. However, it does not cover the Keifuku Electric Railroad or local buses within Arashiyama.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers stunning panoramic views of Kyoto, perfect for landscape shots. The mossy paths, vibrant autumn leaves, and serene gardens also provide numerous picturesque opportunities.
Photography is generally allowed in the outdoor areas of Jojakko-ji Temple. However, always be respectful of the sacred nature of the site and avoid intrusive photography, especially in prayer areas.
Early morning or late afternoon light offers the most beautiful and atmospheric conditions for photography, with softer light and fewer crowds.
Drone usage is typically prohibited at temples and shrines in Japan to maintain peace and prevent disturbance. It's best to assume drones are not allowed.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views and garden landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for details, and a tripod can help with low-light conditions, though be mindful of other visitors.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
Jojakko-ji is known for its serene and peaceful atmosphere, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling city. It's a place for quiet contemplation and enjoying nature.
Yes, there is a moderate amount of walking and climbing involved, including stairs, to reach the higher viewpoints. Comfortable shoes are a must.
Key attractions include the beautiful gardens, the serene forest paths, various small shrines and pagodas, and the panoramic viewpoint at the top of the hill.
While it's a popular spot, especially during autumn, it's generally less crowded than the nearby Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Visiting during off-peak hours significantly reduces crowds.
Restroom facilities are usually available within temple grounds. There might be a small gift shop selling local crafts or souvenirs, but it's not a major commercial area.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the visit more engaging for kids, turn it into a treasure hunt for different types of trees or interesting moss formations. The panoramic view from the top is a great reward. Visiting during less crowded times will ensure a more relaxed experience for everyone.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers
Take your time to wander through the gardens, sit on a bench, and simply absorb the tranquility. It's a perfect spot to meditate, journal, or simply enjoy the quiet beauty of Kyoto's natural landscape. The modest entrance fee ensures that the experience remains accessible and uncommercialized.
📸 Photographers
+1Aim for the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon for the best light. The panoramic view from the summit is a must-capture, but don't overlook the textures of moss, the patterns of bamboo, and the architectural elements of the temple buildings. Be mindful of other visitors and the sacred nature of the site when composing your shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Autumn at Jojakko-ji
+1While autumn is the star season, the temple's natural beauty extends throughout the year. In spring and summer, the lush greenery, moss-covered paths, and bamboo groves offer a refreshing and tranquil experience. The changing seasons provide a unique perspective on the temple's enduring charm, making it a worthwhile visit regardless of when you travel to Kyoto.
+1Navigating Arashiyama's Tranquil Gem
The journey to Jojakko-ji involves a pleasant walk through the Arashiyama area. From Saga-Arashiyama Station, you can take a local train or enjoy a scenic walk. The temple itself requires a moderate hike up a hill, rewarding visitors with stunning panoramic views of Kyoto. This ascent, combined with the well-maintained gardens and serene forest paths, makes for an immersive and contemplative experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit