Ryoan-ji Hojo Teien: A Tranquil Escape in Kyoto
Discover tranquility at Ryoan-ji Hojo Teien, Kyoto’s iconic rock garden, where Zen philosophy meets breathtaking natural beauty.
Ryoan-ji Hojo Teien, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an exquisite Japanese rock garden renowned for its tranquil beauty and Zen philosophy, making it a must-visit for tourists in Kyoto. Explore its serene landscapes and immerse yourself in the calming atmosphere.
A brief summary to Ryoan-ji Hojo Teien (Rock Garden)
- 13-1 Ryoanji Goryonoshitacho, Kyoto, Ryoanji Goryonoshitacho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8001, JP
- +8175-463-2216
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
- Thursday 8 am-5 pm
- Friday 8 am-5 pm
- Saturday 8 am-5 pm
- Sunday 8 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for a quieter experience and better lighting for photos.
- Take a moment to sit on the benches and engage in meditation or quiet reflection to fully appreciate the garden's tranquility.
- Check for any seasonal exhibitions or events that may enhance your visit, such as calligraphy displays or traditional tea ceremonies.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking on gravel paths; consider bringing a water bottle to stay hydrated.
Getting There
-
Car
If you are driving, head towards the Ryoanji area in Kyoto. From central Kyoto, take Route 162 (Kawaramachi Street) towards the northwest. Follow the signs for Ryoan-ji, which is approximately a 30-minute drive. There is parking available at Ryoan-ji, but be aware that it may incur a small fee, typically around 500 yen. Once parked, the entrance to the Hojo Teien (Rock Garden) is just a short walk away.
-
Public Transportation
To reach Ryoan-ji Hojo Teien via public transportation, take the JR Sanin Line from Kyoto Station to Ryoan-ji Station. This journey takes about 30 minutes. After arriving at Ryoan-ji Station, exit the station and walk approximately 15 minutes to Ryoan-ji Temple. Look for signs directing you towards Ryoan-ji; the garden is located within the temple grounds. Note that there is an entrance fee of around 500 yen for accessing the garden.
-
Bus
Another public transport option is to take the Kyoto City Bus. From Kyoto Station, take bus number 26 or 59 and get off at 'Ryoan-ji Temple.' The bus ride takes about 40 minutes. After disembarking, walk towards the temple entrance. The Hojo Teien (Rock Garden) is inside the temple grounds, and remember to carry about 500 yen for the entrance fee to the garden.
Discover more about Ryoan-ji Hojo Teien (Rock Garden)
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Daisen-in Temple
2.8 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Daisen-in Temple, a serene Buddhist sanctuary in Kyoto renowned for its exquisite gardens and rich Zen history.
Mausoleum of Emperor Go-Uda
3.1 km
Discover the tranquility and historical significance of the Mausoleum of Emperor Go-Uda, a must-visit landmark in Kyoto's lush landscapes.
Nijō Castle
3.6 km
Explore the splendid Nijō Castle in Kyoto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing Japan's feudal history through stunning architecture and serene gardens.
Jikishi-an Temple
3.7 km
Discover tranquility at Jikishi-an Temple in Kyoto, where serene gardens and traditional architecture create a perfect escape for tourists.
Kyoto Imperial Palace
4.1 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich history of Kyoto Imperial Palace, a royal landmark surrounded by stunning gardens and traditional architecture.
Kyoto Samurai Experience/和樂Waraku
4.1 km
Experience the rich history of the samurai at the Kyoto Samurai Experience, where tradition meets adventure in the heart of Japan.
Face House
4.2 km
Explore the enchanting Face House in Kyoto, a blend of rich culture, stunning architecture, and tranquil surroundings for an unforgettable experience.
Kimono Forest
4.2 km
Explore the enchanting Kimono Forest in Kyoto, a stunning exhibit showcasing the beauty of traditional Japanese kimonos through vibrant fabric pillars.
Kyoto Shibori Museum
4.2 km
Experience the intricate beauty of shibori at the Kyoto Shibori Museum, where art and tradition intertwine to create a unique cultural journey.
Kamogawa Park
4.2 km
Explore the natural beauty and cultural richness of Kamogawa Park, a serene escape along the Kamo River in the heart of Kyoto.
Kyoto Botanical Gardens
4.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Kyoto Botanical Gardens, an enchanting sanctuary showcasing diverse flora and stunning landscapes in Kyoto, Japan.
Kyoto Gyoen National Garden
4.3 km
Explore the serene beauty of Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, a historical park blending nature and culture in the heart of Kyoto, Japan.
Arashiyama Park Nakanoshima Area
4.4 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Arashiyama Park Nakanoshima Area, a picturesque escape in Kyoto, perfect for nature lovers and families alike.
Togetsukyo Bridge
4.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Togetsukyo Bridge in Kyoto, where nature meets history in a picturesque setting.
Nonomiya Shrine
4.4 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Nonomiya Shrine, a historic Shinto shrine nestled in Kyoto's lush landscapes, perfect for reflection and exploration.
Unmissable attractions to see
Ryōan-ji
0.0 km
Explore Ryōan-ji, a serene Zen temple in Kyoto, renowned for its iconic rock garden and rich cultural heritage, a true gem of tranquility and beauty.
Ryoanji Butsuden (Buddha Hall)
0.0 km
Ryoanji Butsuden: Experience the serene beauty of Kyoto's iconic Buddhist temple and find peace in its tranquil gardens.
Ryoanji Kuri (Quarters)
0.0 km
Discover tranquility and beauty at Ryoanji Kuri, a serene Buddhist temple in Kyoto known for its iconic rock garden and peaceful surroundings.
Ryoan-ji Chisoku no Tsukubai (Stone Washbasin)
0.0 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Ryoan-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Kyoto known for its iconic rock garden and serene Stone Washbasin.
Ryoanji Kyoyochi Pond
0.1 km
Discover the serene beauty of Ryoanji Kyoyochi Pond in Kyoto, a picturesque retreat that embodies traditional Japanese landscape design.
Ryoanji Sammom Gate
0.2 km
Experience the serene beauty of Ryoanji Sammom Gate, a historical Buddhist temple in Kyoto, renowned for its iconic Zen rock garden and tranquil landscapes.
Tea Ceremony Camellia GARDEN
0.3 km
Discover the art of Japanese tea ceremonies in a tranquil garden setting, where tradition and tranquility meet in Kyoto.
Ninna-ji
0.5 km
Discover the serene beauty of Ninna-ji, a historical Buddhist temple in Kyoto, known for its iconic pagoda, stunning gardens, and rich cultural heritage.
Ninna-ji Temple
0.5 km
Experience the serene beauty of Ninna-ji Temple in Kyoto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site rich in history and culture.
Tōji-in Temple
0.6 km
Experience the serene beauty and rich heritage of Tōji-in Temple, a hidden gem in Kyoto's spiritual landscape.
Toujiin Temple
0.6 km
Immerse yourself in the serene beauty and rich culture of Toujiin Temple, a must-visit Buddhist temple in Kyoto.
Toji-in Hojo (Abbot's Quarters)
0.6 km
Explore the serene beauty and rich history of Toji-in Hojo, an exquisite Buddhist temple in Kyoto, offering tranquility and cultural insights.
Myoshin-ji Chokei-in
1.1 km
Experience the serene beauty and spiritual heritage of Myoshin-ji Chokei-in, a hidden Buddhist temple in the heart of Kyoto, Japan.
Myoshin-ji Keishun-in
1.1 km
Experience the serene beauty of Myoshin-ji Keishun-in Temple in Kyoto, where tradition meets tranquility amid stunning moss gardens.
Kinkaku-ji
1.1 km
Discover the enchanting beauty of Kinkaku-ji, Kyoto's iconic Golden Pavilion, a serene Buddhist temple surrounded by stunning gardens.
Essential places to dine
Okonomiyaki Katsu
0.5 km
Experience authentic okonomiyaki in Kyoto at Okonomiyaki Katsu - where flavors come alive in every savory pancake!
Steak Ichiro
3.5 km
Experience exquisite dining at Steak Ichiro, where premium steaks meet traditional Japanese hospitality in Kyoto's vibrant culinary scene.
cafe kozora
3.5 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Cafe Kozora in Kyoto, where every dish tells a story and every sip transports you to Italy.
Tategami
3.7 km
Experience authentic Kyoto-style Japanese cuisine at Tategami - where tradition meets innovation in every bite.
Nakau - Karasuma Imadegawa
3.8 km
Discover delicious Japanese comfort food at Nakau - Karasuma Imadegawa in Kyoto, featuring gyudon, soba noodles & more.
Arashiyama Curry
3.8 km
Experience the authentic taste of Japan at Arashiyama Curry – where delicious flavors meet serene surroundings.
Restaurant Higakisaryo
3.9 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Restaurant Higakisaryo in Kyoto - where tradition meets culinary excellence.
菜食ペッティロッソ 京都 Pettirosso Kyoto
4.1 km
Experience exquisite vegan cuisine at Pettirosso Kyoto, where health meets tradition in delightful dishes crafted from local ingredients.
Le Bouchon T
4.2 km
Experience exquisite Western cuisine at Le Bouchon T in Kyoto's scenic Ukyo Ward - where culinary artistry meets tradition.
Arashiyama MITATE
4.2 km
Experience exquisite French dining in Kyoto's scenic Arashiyama district at Arashiyama MITATE.
Kijurou
4.2 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Kijurou, where premium steak meets traditional yakiniku grilling in beautiful Kyoto.
Akamanma
4.2 km
Discover Akamanma: A delightful fusion of Italian and local flavors nestled in the heart of Kyoto's culinary landscape.
Tempura Matsu
4.2 km
Discover the art of tempura at Tempura Matsu in Kyoto – where tradition meets culinary excellence for an unforgettable dining experience.
Arashiyama Sakura
4.2 km
Discover exquisite Japanese cuisine amidst breathtaking cherry blossoms at Arashiyama Sakura in Kyoto's enchanting landscape.
Arashiyama Yoshimura
4.4 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Arashiyama Yoshimura, a traditional soba noodle shop with stunning riverside views in Kyoto.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Kyo-komono Kinugasa
0.3 km
Discover unique Japanese souvenirs at Kyo-komono Kinugasa, where tradition meets modern craftsmanship in the heart of Kyoto.
Bando Kinran - Co., Ltd. Bando Store
3.1 km
Explore the colorful tapestry of Kyoto at Bando Kinran, a premier fabric store offering exquisite textiles and crafting workshops.
kindal kyoto sanjo horikawa second hand store
4.1 km
Explore Kindal Kyoto Sanjo Horikawa for unique second-hand clothing and sustainable shopping in the heart of Kyoto's vibrant culture.
Music Box Shop
4.2 km
Experience the charm of Kyoto with unique music boxes, perfect for souvenirs and gifts that celebrate Japanese artistry.
Burari Arashiyama
4.2 km
Explore Burari Arashiyama, a unique souvenir store in Kyoto, offering handcrafted treasures and local artisan goods that embody Japanese culture.
Snoopy Chocolat
4.2 km
Discover the magic of Snoopy Chocolat in Kyoto, where delightful chocolates meet whimsical souvenirs in a charming setting.
Natural Cocoon Souvenir Shop
4.3 km
Explore the Natural Cocoon Souvenir Shop in Kyoto for authentic handmade crafts and unique souvenirs reflecting Japan's rich cultural heritage.
The Chiri-Men Craft Museum
4.3 km
Uncover the fascinating world of Chiri-Men textiles at The Chiri-Men Craft Museum in Kyoto, where art meets tradition and creativity flourishes.
Akogareya
4.3 km
Explore the essence of Kyoto at Akogareya, where each souvenir tells a story of tradition and craftsmanship.
Arashiyama Shoryuen
4.3 km
Explore Arashiyama Shoryuen: a vibrant shopping mall in Kyoto featuring delightful food, unique souvenirs, and a taste of local culture.
Rakuraku
4.3 km
Discover unique souvenirs and authentic gifts at Rakuraku, a charming store in Kyoto celebrating Japan's rich cultural heritage.
% ARABICA Kyoto Arashiyama
4.5 km
Discover the serene beauty of Kyoto at % ARABICA, where exquisite coffee meets breathtaking landscapes in Arashiyama.
Kyoto Orgel-Dō Arashiyama
4.5 km
Explore the whimsical world of Kyoto Orgel-Dō Arashiyama, where handcrafted music boxes and charming toys bring joy and nostalgia to every visitor.
Kotouen
4.6 km
Discover the artistry of traditional Japanese ceramics at Kotouen, a captivating pottery store in the heart of Kyoto.
Rōji Tempo
4.9 km
Discover the vibrant shopping experience at Rōji Tempo, where Kyoto's rich culture meets modern retail in a beautiful setting.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Aux Mines
2.8 km
Experience the unique blend of traditional and modern at Aux Mines, a hidden bar in Kyoto offering a curated selection of drinks and a cozy ambiance.
Bar G3
3.7 km
Discover Bar G3, a vibrant Kyoto bar blending traditional charm with a modern twist, perfect for an unforgettable night out.
Nouvelle Japonaise Arashiyama
3.7 km
Savor traditional Japanese cuisine with a creative twist at Nouvelle Japonaise Arashiyama, a culinary gem in the heart of Kyoto.
eX cafe Kyoto Arashiyama
4.3 km
Experience the perfect blend of traditional Japanese aesthetics and modern café culture at eX cafe in Arashiyama, Kyoto.
Arashiyama Nomura
4.3 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Arashiyama Nomura, where savory okonomiyaki and delightful desserts await in the beautiful Arashiyama district.
PIZZERIA MAMA
4.4 km
Discover Pizzeria Mama in Arashiyama for a unique blend of Italian pizza and Kyoto's fresh local ingredients.
SAMGHA
4.6 km
Discover SAMGHA, Kyoto's premier wine bar, offering an exceptional selection of beverages in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.
別館 BAR K家
5.1 km
Immerse yourself in Kyoto's nightlife at 別館 BAR K家, where traditional charm meets innovative cocktails.
House of KI NO BI
5.2 km
Experience the serene ambiance and exquisite craft cocktails at the House of KI NO BI, a must-visit bar in Kyoto for every traveler.
bar K-ya main building
5.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Kyoto at Bar K-ya, where cozy ambiance meets an eclectic drink selection in the heart of the city.
Bar K6
5.3 km
Discover the perfect blend of modern cocktails and traditional ambiance at Bar K6, a lively bar in the heart of Kyoto's nightlife.
Oku
5.3 km
Experience the enchanting atmosphere of Oku, a hidden bar in Kyoto offering exquisite cocktails and a cozy ambiance for the perfect night out.
Bar Fishbowl
5.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Kyoto at Bar Fishbowl, where innovative cocktails and stunning city views await you.
Caamm bar
5.5 km
Discover the lively spirit of Kyoto at Caamm Bar, where traditional hospitality meets modern nightlife in a vibrant setting.
White door speakeasy
5.5 km
Discover the hidden charm of Kyoto at the White Door Speakeasy, where craft cocktails and vintage ambiance create an unforgettable nightlife experience.
