Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple: A Whimsical Journey into Buddhist Art
Discover Kyoto's hidden gem: Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple, a whimsical escape with 1200 unique rakan statues in the serene Arashiyama hills.
Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple, nestled in the hills of Arashiyama, is a unique Buddhist temple famed for its collection of over 1,200 stone rakan statues, each carved with individual character and expressions. Originally founded in the 8th century, the temple has been rebuilt and relocated several times due to natural disasters. The statues, created in the 1980s under the guidance of sculptor Kocho Nishimura, offer a delightful blend of spirituality and whimsy, making it a memorable and off-the-beaten-path destination.
A brief summary to Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple
- 2-5 Sagatoriimoto Fukatanicho, Kyoto, Sagatoriimoto Fukatanicho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8439, JP
- +8175-865-1231
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience.
- Take your time to explore the statues and discover their unique expressions.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the temple grounds and the uphill approach.
- Combine your visit with a stroll through the Saga-Toriimoto Preserved Street for a taste of old Kyoto.
- Check the weather forecast, as the moss-covered statues are especially beautiful after a rain.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From JR Saga-Arashiyama Station, walk west for 10 minutes to the Nonomiya bus stop. Take Kyoto bus number 94 towards Kiyotaki and get off at the Otagi Dera Mae bus stop. The bus ride takes approximately 25 minutes. The fare is ¥230 per person.
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Taxi
From JR Saga-Arashiyama Station, a taxi ride to Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple takes about 5 minutes and costs approximately ¥1,500. Taxis are readily available on both sides of the station.
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Walking
From the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, walk towards the Saga-Toriimoto Preserved Street. Continue along the street, which gradually ascends uphill, for approximately 35-40 minutes until you reach Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple. Note that the walk is mostly uphill.
Discover more about Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple
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