Chogaku-ji Temple - A traditional japanese temple stands majestically in nature.
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Chogaku-ji Temple

4.1
·705 reviews·Tenri, Japan

A serene temple featuring tranquil gardens, Buddha statues, a unique painting of hell, and a picturesque lake.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Azaleas in bloom

CrowdLow
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Chogaku-ji Temple - A traditional japanese temple stands majestically in nature.

Chogaku-ji Temple

Best Time

Spring mornings

Azaleas in bloom

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene temple featuring tranquil gardens, Buddha statues, a unique painting of hell, and a picturesque lake.

4.1
(705 reviews)

"So peaceful and the lake and forest setting was one of the prettiest ones we have seen."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Entry Fee Consideration

While there's a 400 yen fee, many find the peaceful atmosphere and beauty justify the cost.

🌸 Azalea Season Beauty

Visit during azalea season for the most vibrant and picturesque garden views.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tranquil Gardens

Tranquil Gardens

Temple grounds

Wander through serene gardens, often adorned with vibrant azaleas, offering a peaceful retreat.

Buddha Statues

Buddha Statues

Temple halls

Admire the serene Buddha statues housed within the ancient temple structures.

Painting of Hell

Painting of Hell

Temple exhibition

Discover a unique and thought-provoking painting depicting scenes of hell.

Scenic Lake Setting

Scenic Lake Setting

Temple surroundings

Enjoy the picturesque lake and forest setting, a highlight for many visitors.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Serenity

Chogaku-ji Temple offers a peaceful escape with beautiful gardens and Buddha statues. While entry has a fee, many find the tranquil atmosphere and scenic lake setting well worth it for a moment of calm amidst your travels. Reddit

Timing Your Visit

To fully appreciate the temple's beauty and avoid potential crowds, consider visiting during off-peak hours. The azaleas are particularly stunning, so timing your visit with their bloom can enhance the experience. Reddit

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Azaleas in bloom
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer tour groups
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Replying to @Em Of all my Japan recommendations, this is always my number 1 most imperative one!!!! 🙂‍↕️🍀🐱🎌✨ #gotokujitemple #luckycattemple #japantips
@samjtodd
26.3K likes • 202.1K views

🎯 Entry Fee Consideration

While there's a 400 yen fee, many find the peaceful atmosphere and beauty justify the cost. Reddit

🌸 Azalea Season Beauty

Visit during azalea season for the most vibrant and picturesque garden views. Reddit

Explore Jindaiji Temple in Chofu and treat all your senses!🌿 Stroll through the streets lined with food stalls and enjoy the delicious flavors of traditional Japan.🍡 Also, you can shop for unique souvenirs, like beautifully crafted pottery and adorable figurines of daruma and tanuki. It’s the perfect place to enjoy culture, nature, and tasty eats all in one! 📍Jindaiji Temple (Chofu, Tokyo) 🎥 Spec...
@rakutentravel_global
11.8K likes • 135.8K views
reddit.com

Otagi Nenbutsuji temple to Kinkaku-ji temple travel tip?

🚶‍♀️ Peaceful Exploration

Take your time to soak in the tranquility of the lake and forest surroundings. Reddit

🖼️ Art Exhibition

Don't miss the small art exposition, including a unique painting of hell. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Entry Fee Consideration

While there's a 400 yen fee, many find the peaceful atmosphere and beauty justify the cost. Reddit

🌸 Azalea Season Beauty

Visit during azalea season for the most vibrant and picturesque garden views. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Peaceful Exploration

Take your time to soak in the tranquility of the lake and forest surroundings. Reddit

🖼️ Art Exhibition

Don't miss the small art exposition, including a unique painting of hell. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.1
(705 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors often praise Chogaku-ji Temple for its peaceful atmosphere, beautiful gardens, and scenic lake setting. The unique painting of hell is also a point of interest. Some guests feel the entry fee is a bit high compared to free alternatives nearby.

"Nice temple with beautiful gardens. There is a small paints exposition."

Andres Roberto Gomez Vargas

"Very beautiful area and shrine"

Chloé O

"Pretty but comes with a 400yen entry fee that's not really worth it considering there are other beautiful temples and gardens around the area that are free to enter."

Ruza Kinsman

What People Like

Peaceful atmosphere
Beautiful gardens
Scenic lake setting

What People Dislike

Entry fee cost

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

From Arashiyama, you can take a bus towards Chogaku-ji Temple. Google Maps can help you find the most direct bus routes. Reddit

Yes, Chogaku-ji Temple is accessible by public transport, typically via bus services. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information. Reddit

Travel between Otagi Nenbutsuji and Chogaku-ji Temple often involves bus routes. It's advisable to check Google Maps or local transit apps for the most efficient connections. Reddit

Information on parking facilities at Chogaku-ji Temple is limited, but it's generally recommended to use public transport due to its accessibility. Reddit

Walking from Arashiyama Bamboo Grove to Chogaku-ji Temple is possible but can be a considerable distance. Taking a bus is generally more convenient. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Chogaku-ji Temple has an admission fee of 400 yen. Some visitors feel it's worth it for the peaceful experience, while others note there are free temples nearby. Reddit

Information regarding discounts for Chogaku-ji Temple entry is not widely available. It's best to check the official temple website or inquire upon arrival. Reddit

Opening hours for Chogaku-ji Temple can vary. It's recommended to check the official temple website or local listings for the most current operating times. Reddit

Tickets for Chogaku-ji Temple are typically purchased upon arrival. Advance booking information is not commonly advertised. Reddit

No, Chogaku-ji Temple has a 400 yen entry fee. While some visitors find it worthwhile, others suggest exploring free temples in the vicinity. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed in the outdoor areas of Chogaku-ji Temple, but it's always respectful to check for any specific restrictions within temple buildings or sacred areas. Reddit

The serene gardens, the picturesque lake, and the Buddha statues are popular spots for photography. The azaleas in bloom offer particularly beautiful photo opportunities. Reddit

Drone usage is typically restricted at temples and religious sites to maintain peace and respect. It's highly unlikely to be permitted at Chogaku-ji Temple. Reddit

While specific rules aren't always posted, general etiquette for visiting temples includes being mindful of others, avoiding disruptive behavior, and respecting sacred spaces. Reddit

A versatile lens, such as a 24-70mm, would be useful for capturing both landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens can be great for the gardens and lake. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Chogaku-ji Temple can be a peaceful outing for families, especially if children appreciate nature and quiet environments. The gardens offer space to wander, and the Buddha statues might spark curiosity. However, it's important to note the 400 yen entry fee, which might be a consideration for larger families. Reddit

Keep in mind that the focus is on tranquility, so managing expectations for high-energy activities is key. The unique painting of hell might be too intense for very young children, so parental discretion is advised. Overall, it's a good option for families seeking a calm, scenic experience. Reddit

🚶 Budget Travelers

While Chogaku-ji Temple has a 400 yen entry fee, some travelers suggest that there are other beautiful temples and gardens in the area that are free to enter. Reddit If you're on a strict budget, you might want to prioritize those. However, if the unique art and serene lake setting appeal to you, the fee is relatively modest for the experience offered. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Allure of the Gardens

Chogaku-ji Temple is renowned for its beautifully maintained gardens, which are a significant draw for visitors seeking tranquility. During the spring, these gardens burst into color with blooming azaleas, creating a breathtaking spectacle. The interplay of lush greenery, carefully placed stones, and the serene lake forms a harmonious landscape that invites quiet contemplation. Many visitors highlight the peaceful atmosphere as a key reason for their visit, making it a perfect spot to unwind and connect with nature. Reddit

Beyond the visual appeal, the gardens offer a sense of escape from the bustling city. The gentle sounds of nature and the carefully curated scenery contribute to a deeply calming experience. Whether you're an avid gardener or simply appreciate natural beauty, the grounds of Chogaku-ji Temple are sure to leave a lasting impression. Reddit

Artistic and Spiritual Significance

Within the temple complex, visitors can discover a collection of Buddha statues, each exuding a sense of peace and devotion. These statues are central to the spiritual experience of the temple, offering a glimpse into Buddhist art and iconography. The temple also houses a unique and somewhat startling painting that depicts scenes of hell, providing a stark contrast to the serene surroundings and prompting reflection on Buddhist cosmology. Reddit

This combination of spiritual artifacts and artistic expressions makes Chogaku-ji Temple a place of both aesthetic and philosophical interest. The presence of these elements, alongside the natural beauty, creates a multi-layered experience for visitors. It's a destination that appeals to those interested in Japanese culture, art, and spiritual practices. Reddit

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