Discover Tranquility at Saimyō-ji Temple
Experience the serene beauty and spiritual heritage of Saimyō-ji Temple, a hidden gem in Kyoto's lush landscape, perfect for reflection and exploration.
Nestled in the serene surroundings of Kyoto, Saimyō-ji Temple is a Buddhist sanctuary offering a peaceful retreat for tourists. Explore its beautiful architecture, intricate paintings, and lush gardens, making it a perfect spot for contemplation and admiration of nature's beauty.
A brief summary to Saimyō-ji Temple
- 1-1 Umegahata Makinoocho, Kyoto, Umegahata Makinoocho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8291, JP
- +8175-861-1770
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy a quieter atmosphere and capture stunning photographs.
- Take your time to explore the gardens; they are particularly beautiful during cherry blossom season.
- Respect the temple's customs by maintaining silence and not using flash photography inside the halls.
- Look for guided tours which can provide deeper insights into the temple's history and artworks.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving, head towards the Umegahata area in Ukyo Ward, Kyoto. From central Kyoto, take the R38 road heading northwest. After about 30 minutes, you will reach the Umegahata intersection. Turn right on Umegahata Makinoocho, and you will see signs for Saimyō-ji Temple. There is parking available at the temple, but be aware that it may fill up quickly on weekends.
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Public Transportation (Train and Bus)
To reach Saimyō-ji Temple via public transportation, start by taking the JR Sagano Line from Kyoto Station to Saga Arashiyama Station (approximately 15 minutes). From Saga Arashiyama Station, transfer to the bus bound for Umegahata and get off at the Saimyō-ji Temple stop. The bus ride takes about 20 minutes. Note that the bus schedule may vary, so check the timetable ahead of time to avoid long waits.
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Walking
If you are already in the vicinity of Umegahata, you can walk to Saimyō-ji Temple. The temple is about a 15-minute walk from the nearest bus stop. Just follow the signs towards Saimyō-ji, and enjoy the scenic countryside views along the way.
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