Rakushisha, Kinki Kansai Travel Guide

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Discover Rakushisha, the serene hermitage of haiku poet Mukai Kyorai, a disciple of Bashō, in Kyoto's Arashiyama, offering a glimpse into literary history.

Rakushisha is a small, tranquil hermitage in Kyoto, famed as the former residence of haiku poet Mukai Kyorai, a prominent disciple of Matsuo Bashō. It's celebrated for its historical connection to Bashō and its serene garden, which embodies the spirit of Japanese haiku poetry.

A brief summary to Rakushisha

20 Sagaogurayama Hinomyojincho, Kyoto, Sagaogurayama Hinomyojincho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8391, JP
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Monday 10 am-4 pm
Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
Thursday 10 am-4 pm
Friday 10 am-4 pm
Saturday 10 am-4 pm
Sunday 10 am-4 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Visit during the persimmon season (autumn) to see the trees laden with fruit, reminiscent of the hermitage's name.
Combine your visit with a stroll through the nearby Arashiyama Bamboo Grove for a full day of scenic and cultural exploration.
Take a moment to sit in the garden and reflect on the haiku poetry inspired by this tranquil setting.

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Explore Rakushisha on the Map

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

Getting There

Walking

From the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Rakushisha is approximately a 15-20 minute walk. Head north along the main path from the Bamboo Grove, then turn left onto a smaller road. Follow the signs for Rakushisha. The path is mostly flat and easy to navigate. There are no specific costs involved in reaching Rakushisha by walking.
Public Transport

From Kyoto Station, take the JR Sagano Line to Saga-Arashiyama Station (approx. 20 minutes, ¥240). From Saga-Arashiyama Station, it's about a 25-minute walk to Rakushisha. Alternatively, take a local bus from the station to a closer stop and walk the remaining distance (approx. ¥230). No additional tolls or parking fees are applicable when using public transport.
Taxi

From Saga-Arashiyama Station, a taxi to Rakushisha will take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated fare is between ¥800 and ¥1,000. Taxis are readily available at the station. There are no additional tolls involved.

Discover more about Rakushisha

Rakushisha, meaning "fallen persimmon hermitage," is a small and peaceful retreat located in the Arashiyama district of Kyoto. This humble dwelling was once the home of Mukai Kyorai (1651-1704), a distinguished haiku poet and one of the ten leading disciples of the renowned Matsuo Bashō. The name Rakushisha is derived from a scene where Kyorai sold the persimmons from the surrounding trees, only to see them fall to the ground during a storm.Rakushisha gained prominence due to its association with Matsuo Bashō, who visited Kyorai here on several occasions. It is said that Bashō composed some of his famous haiku poems within these tranquil grounds. The hermitage provides a glimpse into the simple lifestyle of a poet and scholar during the Edo period.The site features a small thatched-roof hut, a simple garden with stone lanterns, and persimmon trees that evoke the hermitage's name. The garden is designed to inspire contemplation and creativity, reflecting the essence of haiku poetry. Visitors can experience the serene atmosphere that influenced Kyorai and Bashō, making it a unique cultural and historical site.Today, Rakushisha stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Japanese haiku poetry and the profound connection between nature and artistic expression. It offers a quiet escape from the bustling city, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the world of classical Japanese literature and appreciate the beauty of simplicity.