Serenity at Daikaku-ji Temple: A Tranquil Retreat in Kyoto
Discover the tranquil beauty of Daikaku-ji Temple, a historical Buddhist sanctuary in Kyoto, surrounded by lush gardens and rich cultural heritage.
Nestled in the scenic Ukyo Ward of Kyoto, Daikaku-ji Temple is a serene Buddhist temple that offers visitors a glimpse into Japan's rich spiritual heritage. Surrounded by lush gardens and tranquil ponds, this historic site is perfect for those seeking peace and reflection amidst the hustle and bustle of the city.
A brief summary to Daikaku-ji Temple
- 4 Sagaosawacho, Kyoto, Sagaosawacho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8411, JP
- +8175-871-0071
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 9 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy a quieter experience and catch the temple's gardens at their most serene.
- Take your time exploring the various sub-temples and hidden corners of the grounds for a more immersive visit.
- Check the temple's calendar for seasonal events or tea ceremonies that can enhance your experience.
- Dress modestly and respectfully as this is an active place of worship; comfortable shoes are recommended for walking the grounds.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes, especially during cherry blossom season or autumn foliage.
Getting There
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Train
To reach Daikaku-ji Temple from Nara, start at Nara Station. Take the Kintetsu Nara Line towards Kyoto Station and get off at Yamashina Station. At Yamashina Station, transfer to the JR Kyoto Line and head towards Kyoto Station. Once at Kyoto Station, switch to the JR Sanin Line and take the train towards Saga-Arashiyama. Get off at Saga-Arashiyama Station. From the station, exit and head west for about 15 minutes on foot. Follow the signs towards Daikaku-ji Temple, which is approximately 1.2 kilometers away.
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Bus
From Nara, go to the Nara Bus Terminal located near Nara Station. Take the bus bound for Kyoto Station (there are several options available). Once you arrive at Kyoto Station, transfer to the bus number 28 or 93 heading to Daikaku-ji Temple. Get off at the Daikaku-ji-mae bus stop, and from there, the temple is a short 5-minute walk. Just follow the signs pointing towards the temple.
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Taxi
If you prefer a more direct route, you can take a taxi from anywhere in Nara to Daikaku-ji Temple. Just show the driver the address: '4 Sagaosawacho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto.' The journey will take about 50 minutes depending on traffic, and you can expect to pay around 10,000 to 15,000 yen.
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Bicycle
For a more adventurous option, you can rent a bicycle in Nara. The route to Daikaku-ji Temple is about 12 km. Head towards the Nara Park area and follow the path along the river towards Kyoto. Once you reach the outskirts of Kyoto, continue towards Saga-Arashiyama. The temple is well-signposted and should take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to reach by bike.
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