With its sprawling grounds dotted with sub-temples, serene karesansui (dry landscape) gardens, and historically and culturally significant structures, Daitoku-ji is a must-see Zen temple representing the best of Kyoto.
Historic Sites
Shrines and Temples
World Heritage
Japanese Gardens
Highlights
Extensive grounds filled with sub-temples (tatchu)
Ryogen-in's karesansui garden
Zuiho-in's modern karesansui garden
Historically and culturally significant structures
Approximately 30 minutes by Kyoto City Bus from JR Kyoto Station. Get off at "Daitokuji-mae" and it's a short walk.
Approximately 5 minutes by Kyoto City Bus from Kitano-Oji Station on the Karasuma Line of the Kyoto Municipal Subway. Get off at "Daitokuji-mae" and it's a short walk. Show route
Op.Hours
9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Cld.Days
None
Fee
Entrance Fee: Adults ¥500, High school students ¥300, Junior high school students and younger free
*Fees vary depending on the sub-temple.
INFO
Daitoku-ji Temple boasts an expansive area, requiring several hours to fully explore. Visiting hours vary among the sub-temples (tatchu), so checking beforehand is recommended.
Daitoku-ji is the head temple of the Daitoku-ji school of Rinzai Zen Buddhism, founded during the Muromachi period. It's one of Kyoto's leading Zen temples and boasts historical connections to warlords such as Oda Nobunaga and Toyotomi Hideyoshi.
The extensive grounds are home to approximately 20 sub-temples (tatchu), each with its unique garden. Among the most famous is the karesansui garden of Ryogen-in. This garden, dating back to the Muromachi period, captivates visitors with its timeless beauty.
Meanwhile, Zuiho-in's garden is known as a modern karesansui garden. Shigeru Morimura's innovative design sets it apart from traditional gardens, offering a contemporary appreciation of karesansui.
Daitoku-ji provides a tranquil escape, a place for peace and reflection, beloved by countless visitors. If you seek historical and cultural immersion and a soothing experience, Daitoku-ji awaits.