Chishakuin, Kinki Kansai Travel Guide

4.4 (2155)

Discover Kyoto's Chishakuin Temple: A serene escape with stunning gardens, historic art, and a rich Buddhist heritage.

Chishakuin Temple, nestled in Kyoto's Higashiyama district, is a head temple of the Chisan sect of Shingon Buddhism, boasting a rich history dating back to the 13th century. It's renowned for its stunning garden, attributed to tea master Sen no Rikyū, and its priceless screen paintings.

A brief summary to Chishakuin

964番地 Higashikawaracho, Kyoto, Higashikawaracho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0951, JP
Click to display
Click to display

Monday 9 am-4 pm
Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
Thursday 9 am-4 pm
Friday 9 am-4 pm
Saturday 9 am-4 pm
Sunday 9 am-4 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Chishakuin.

Visit in late April or early May to see the azaleas in full bloom in the garden.
Check the temple's website for information on special events and festivals, such as the Aoba Matsuri in June.
Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the temple grounds, garden, and treasure hall.
Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a fair amount of walking.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

KIX Observation Hall Sky View

Tsūtenkaku

Shingonzaka

Aizenzaka

Kuchinawazaka

Explore Chishakuin on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Chishakuin, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Kyoto Station, take City Bus routes 202, 206, 207, 208, 86, 110, or 106 to the Higashiyama Shichijō bus stop, which is a 1-minute walk to Chishakuin Temple. Alternatively, take the Keihan Main Line to Shichijō Station, from which it is a 10-15 minute walk to the temple. A single bus fare within Kyoto's flat rate zone costs ¥230. Subway fares range from ¥210-¥250.
Walking

Chishakuin Temple is located a short walk from other major attractions such as the Kyoto National Museum and Sanjūsangen-dō Temple. From Sanjūsangen-dō, it's approximately a 5-minute walk east along Shichijō street. From the Kyoto National Museum, cross the street to the east.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Kyoto. From Kyoto Station, a taxi to Chishakuin Temple will take approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated cost is ¥1,500 - ¥2,000. Taxis can be found at designated taxi stands or hailed on the street.

Discover more about Chishakuin

Chishakuin Temple, located in the Higashiyama district of Kyoto, serves as the head temple for the Chisan sect of Shingon Buddhism. The temple's history traces back to the 13th century as a learning institute within Negoro-ji Temple in Wakayama Prefecture. After being dissolved in the 16th century by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, it was later restored by Tokugawa Ieyasu, who granted the land on which it stands today.The temple is celebrated for its beautiful garden, believed to have been designed by the renowned tea master Sen no Rikyū. The garden is designed to represent Mount Lu in China, featuring an artificial hill covered in meticulously pruned trees overlooking a long, narrow pond. The garden's scenery transforms throughout the year, showcasing distinct seasonal beauty. It was designated as a Place of Scenic Beauty in 1945.Chishakuin's Ōjoin (Grand Drawing Room) features impressive shōheki-ga wall and door panel paintings. These paintings are thought to be the work of Hasegawa Tōhaku and his son, Kyūzō. The Kondō (Main Hall) houses a gold leaf-covered statue of Dainichi Nyorai, the Cosmic Buddha. The current building was dedicated in 1975, replacing the original structure that was destroyed by fire in 1882. The temple also has a Treasure Hall, which requires an entrance fee.Visitors can explore the temple grounds and appreciate the serene atmosphere, the historic garden, and the artistry within the buildings. The temple is an active center for Buddhist learning and training, so visitors may encounter disciples or rituals in progress.