Discover the Serenity of Kōtō-in Temple
Experience tranquility and cultural heritage at Kōtō-in Temple, a must-visit Buddhist sanctuary in Kyoto, Japan, surrounded by stunning gardens.
Nestled in the tranquil surroundings of Kyoto, Kōtō-in Temple is a serene Buddhist temple renowned for its beautiful gardens and historical significance. It offers a peaceful retreat for tourists seeking to immerse themselves in Japanese culture and spirituality.
A brief summary to Kōtō-in Temple
- 73-1 Murasakino Daitokujicho, Kyoto, Murasakino Daitokujicho, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 603-8231, JP
- +8175-492-0068
Local tips
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience and optimal lighting for photos.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll want to explore the gardens and pathways thoroughly.
- Check the temple's schedule for special events or seasonal exhibitions to enhance your visit.
- Bring a camera to capture the beauty of the gardens, especially during cherry blossom and autumn leaf seasons.
- Consider participating in a Zen meditation session for a truly immersive cultural experience.
Getting There
-
Bus
From Nara Station, take the Kintetsu Nara Line to Kyoto Station. Once at Kyoto Station, transfer to the Karasuma Subway Line and ride to Kitaoji Station. Exit the station and take bus number 204 towards 'Kinkaku-ji' and get off at 'Daitoku-ji' stop. From there, Kōtō-in Temple is a short 5-minute walk. The temple entrance is located at 73-1 Murasakino Daitokujicho.
-
Train and Walk
Start at Nara Station and take the Kintetsu Nara Line to Kyoto Station. From Kyoto Station, take the JR Nara Line to Tofuku-ji Station. Upon arrival, exit the station and head north on the main road. Walk for about 15-20 minutes until you reach Daitoku-ji Temple complex. Kōtō-in Temple is within the complex. Look for signs directing you to the temple.
-
Taxi
If you prefer a more direct route, you can take a taxi from Nara Station to Kōtō-in Temple. The ride will take approximately 45 minutes depending on traffic. Just provide the driver with the address: 73-1 Murasakino Daitokujicho, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 603-8231.
-
Bicycle Rental
For a more adventurous option, consider renting a bicycle in Nara. Head towards the Kintetsu Nara Line and cycle to Kyoto, which is about a 45-minute ride. Once you reach Kyoto, navigate to Daitoku-ji Temple, where Kōtō-in is located. There are bike paths along the way to help guide you.
Discover more about Kōtō-in Temple
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Kyoto Botanical Gardens
1.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Kyoto Botanical Gardens, an enchanting sanctuary showcasing diverse flora and stunning landscapes in Kyoto, Japan.
Kamogawa Park
1.9 km
Explore the natural beauty and cultural richness of Kamogawa Park, a serene escape along the Kamo River in the heart of Kyoto.
Ryōan-ji
2.5 km
Discover the tranquility of Ryōan-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Kyoto, known for its iconic Zen rock garden and rich cultural heritage.
Kyoto Imperial Palace
2.5 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich history of Kyoto Imperial Palace, a royal landmark surrounded by stunning gardens and traditional architecture.
Kyoto Gyoen National Garden
2.9 km
Explore the serene beauty of Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, a historical park blending nature and culture in the heart of Kyoto, Japan.
Kamogawa Delta
3.0 km
Explore the serene Kamogawa Delta in Kyoto, a cultural landmark and park perfect for relaxation, picnics, and nature-inspired adventures.
Nijō Castle
3.3 km
Explore the splendid Nijō Castle in Kyoto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing Japan's feudal history through stunning architecture and serene gardens.
TOURS IN KYOTO
3.4 km
Discover Kyoto's rich cultural heritage through immersive guided tours of its iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
Face House
3.4 km
Explore the enchanting Face House in Kyoto, a blend of rich culture, stunning architecture, and tranquil surroundings for an unforgettable experience.
Stepping Stones at Kojin
3.5 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of the Stepping Stones at Kojin in Kyoto, where nature and art converge in a stunning setting.
Kyoto International Manga Museum
3.8 km
Explore the rich world of manga at the Kyoto International Manga Museum, a cultural haven for enthusiasts and curious visitors alike.
Kyoto Shibori Museum
3.8 km
Experience the intricate beauty of shibori at the Kyoto Shibori Museum, where art and tradition intertwine to create a unique cultural journey.
Karasuma Oike ruins, Heian-kyo mark
3.9 km
Explore the Karasuma Oike ruins in Kyoto, where ancient history meets modern charm, offering a captivating glimpse into Japan's imperial past.
京都万華鏡ミュージアム 姉小路館
4.1 km
Explore the exquisite craftsmanship of Kyoto at the Handicraft Museum, showcasing traditional and modern Japanese artistry in a captivating setting.
The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto
4.1 km
Discover unparalleled luxury and serene beauty at The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto, a perfect blend of tradition and modern elegance.
Unmissable attractions to see
Daitoku-ji Soken-in
0.2 km
Explore the tranquil beauty and rich history of Daitoku-ji Soken-in, a hidden gem in Kyoto's Buddhist heritage, where serenity meets artistry.
Daitoku-ji Korin-in
0.2 km
Explore Daitoku-ji Korin-in, a peaceful Buddhist temple in Kyoto, renowned for its stunning gardens and rich cultural heritage, perfect for tranquil reflection.
Daitoku-ji Daiji-in
0.2 km
Discover the tranquility of Daitoku-ji Daiji-in, a stunning Buddhist temple in Kyoto surrounded by beautiful gardens and rich cultural heritage.
Daitoku-ji Zuiho-in
0.2 km
Discover tranquility and beauty at Daitoku-ji Zuiho-in, a serene Buddhist temple in Kyoto, embodying Zen philosophy through its stunning gardens and architecture.
Daitoku-ji Butsuden (Buddha Hall)
0.3 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Daitoku-ji Butsuden, a historic Buddhist temple in Kyoto, renowned for its stunning architecture and serene gardens.
Daitoku-ji Temple
0.3 km
Explore the tranquility and rich history of Daitoku-ji Temple, a serene Buddhist temple in Kyoto with stunning gardens and cultural significance.
Daisen-in Temple
0.3 km
Explore Daisen-in Temple in Kyoto, a peaceful Buddhist retreat featuring stunning gardens and rich cultural heritage, perfect for meditation and reflection.
Daitoku-ji Hoshun-in
0.3 km
Discover the tranquility of Daitoku-ji Hoshun-in, a beautiful Buddhist temple in Kyoto with stunning gardens and rich spiritual heritage.
Daitoku-ji Ohbai-in
0.3 km
Explore the serene beauty of Daitoku-ji Ohbai-in, a remarkable Buddhist temple in Kyoto, known for its stunning gardens and tranquil atmosphere.
Daitoku-ji Ryogen-in
0.3 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Daitoku-ji Ryogen-in, a serene Buddhist temple in Kyoto known for its stunning gardens and rich spiritual heritage.
Daitoku-ji Somon (Main Gate)
0.3 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Daitoku-ji Somon, the serene main gate to Kyoto's historic Buddhist temple complex, a must-visit for spiritual and cultural enrichment.
Imamiya Shrine
0.3 km
Immerse yourself in the serene beauty and rich traditions of Imamiya Shrine, a tranquil Shinto sanctuary in the heart of Kyoto.
Funaoka Onsen
0.7 km
Experience the tranquility of Funaoka Onsen, a traditional sento in Kyoto offering rejuvenating baths and a glimpse into Japanese culture.
Shichiku Kifune-jinja Shrine
0.9 km
Explore the serene Shichiku Kifune-jinja Shrine in Kyoto, a tranquil haven blending rich Shinto heritage with breathtaking natural beauty.
Injō-ji Temple (Sembon Emma-dō)
0.9 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Injō-ji Temple, a must-visit Buddhist temple in Kyoto offering peace, history, and stunning architecture.
Essential places to dine
菜食ペッティロッソ 京都 Pettirosso Kyoto
1.9 km
Experience exquisite vegan cuisine at Pettirosso Kyoto, where health meets tradition in delightful dishes crafted from local ingredients.
Steak Ichiro
1.9 km
Experience exquisite dining at Steak Ichiro, where premium steaks meet traditional Japanese hospitality in Kyoto's vibrant culinary scene.
Nakau - Karasuma Imadegawa
1.9 km
Discover delicious Japanese comfort food at Nakau - Karasuma Imadegawa in Kyoto, featuring gyudon, soba noodles & more.
cafe kozora
2.0 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Cafe Kozora in Kyoto, where every dish tells a story and every sip transports you to Italy.
Restaurant Higakisaryo
2.5 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Restaurant Higakisaryo in Kyoto - where tradition meets culinary excellence.
Okonomiyaki Katsu
2.5 km
Experience authentic okonomiyaki in Kyoto at Okonomiyaki Katsu - where flavors come alive in every savory pancake!
Kichisen
2.7 km
Discover Kichisen in Kyoto: A premier kaiseki restaurant showcasing seasonal ingredients and traditional Japanese culinary artistry.
Kyoto cuisine Teramachi Yoshikura
2.7 km
Discover authentic Kyoto cuisine at Teramachi Yoshikura – where traditional flavors meet modern creativity in an unforgettable dining experience.
Tategami
3.0 km
Experience authentic Kyoto-style Japanese cuisine at Tategami - where tradition meets innovation in every bite.
Omi-ya
3.5 km
Discover Omi-ya in Kyoto: An affordable udon noodle shop serving delicious handmade dishes in a cozy setting.
Nakaso Tango
3.5 km
Discover authentic Japanese cuisine at Nakaso Tango, where tradition meets flavor in the heart of Kyoto.
Saishuan Shiraki
3.6 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Japan at Saishuan Shiraki - a premier izakaya experience in the heart of Kyoto.
Hafuu
3.7 km
Discover Hafuu in Kyoto: where premium Japanese beef meets culinary excellence in an elegant setting.
Honke Owariya Main Branch
3.7 km
Experience authentic Kyoto flavors at Honke Owariya Main Branch - renowned for its handcrafted soba noodles and traditional Japanese sweets.
Antonio
3.9 km
Discover authentic Spanish flavors at Antonio in Kyoto – where culinary artistry meets vibrant ambiance.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bando Kinran - Co., Ltd. Bando Store
1.7 km
Explore the colorful tapestry of Kyoto at Bando Kinran, a premier fabric store offering exquisite textiles and crafting workshops.
Kyo-komono Kinugasa
2.5 km
Discover unique Japanese souvenirs at Kyo-komono Kinugasa, where tradition meets modern craftsmanship in the heart of Kyoto.
kindal kyoto sanjo horikawa second hand store
3.9 km
Explore Kindal Kyoto Sanjo Horikawa for unique second-hand clothing and sustainable shopping in the heart of Kyoto's vibrant culture.
Daikichi
4.0 km
Explore the exquisite collection of antiques at Daikichi, where every piece tells a story of Japan's rich cultural heritage in the heart of Kyoto.
Rōji Tempo
4.1 km
Discover the vibrant shopping experience at Rōji Tempo, where Kyoto's rich culture meets modern retail in a beautiful setting.
D_MALL京都
4.2 km
Discover unique fashion accessories in Kyoto at D_MALL, where local style meets contemporary trends in a vibrant shopping atmosphere.
京都・うつわ・食器 / Gallery Nisui 而水
4.3 km
Explore the exquisite artistry of Kyoto at Gallery Nisui, your premier destination for fine chinaware and unique ceramics.
Furugiya KINJI Kyototen
4.3 km
Explore Furugiya KINJI Kyototen in Kyoto for a delightful vintage shopping experience featuring unique pre-loved clothing and accessories.
Kyoto Handicraft Center
4.4 km
Discover the essence of Japanese craftsmanship and cuisine at the Kyoto Handicraft Center, where tradition meets artistry in the heart of Kyoto.
GOHOBI - Kyoto Sanjo-Teramachi
4.4 km
Explore a variety store in Kyoto offering unique bags, confectioneries, teas, and women's clothing, all reflecting the city's rich culture.
musubi -kyoto-
4.4 km
Discover the beauty of traditional kimonos and fashion accessories at Musubi, a gem in the heart of Kyoto’s cultural landscape.
The Hamono Collection
4.4 km
Explore the artistry of Japanese knife-making at The Hamono Collection, a must-visit destination for culinary enthusiasts in Kyoto.
Sanjo Meiten-gai Shopping Arcade
4.5 km
Discover the heart of Kyoto at Sanjo Meiten-gai Shopping Arcade, where traditional charm meets modern shopping and dining.
Pan-no-Tajima Shinkyogoku
4.5 km
Discover the authentic taste of Kyoto at Pan-no-Tajima Shinkyogoku, a bakery offering exquisite breads and pastries crafted with tradition.
Bento&co Kyoto
4.5 km
Explore Bento&co Kyoto for unique Japanese kitchen supplies and bento boxes, perfect for souvenirs and culinary enthusiasts.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
House of KI NO BI
4.0 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 K6
4.1 km
Discover the perfect blend of modern cocktails and traditional ambiance at Bar K6, a lively bar in the heart of Kyoto's nightlife.
別館 BAR K家
4.2 km
Immerse yourself in Kyoto's nightlife at 別館 BAR K家, where traditional charm meets innovative cocktails.
SAMGHA
4.3 km
Discover SAMGHA, Kyoto's premier wine bar, offering an exceptional selection of beverages in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.
Bar Fishbowl
4.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Kyoto at Bar Fishbowl, where innovative cocktails and stunning city views await you.
Caamm bar
4.5 km
Discover the lively spirit of Kyoto at Caamm Bar, where traditional hospitality meets modern nightlife in a vibrant setting.
bar K-ya main building
4.5 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.
Aux Mines
4.6 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
4.6 km
Discover Bar G3, a vibrant Kyoto bar blending traditional charm with a modern twist, perfect for an unforgettable night out.
Bar Cordon Noir
4.6 km
Discover the enchanting Bar Cordon Noir in Kyoto, where exquisite whiskies and a cozy atmosphere await every visitor.
Pig & Whistle
4.6 km
Discover Pig & Whistle, a charming pub in Kyoto offering a delightful blend of local cuisine, craft beers, and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Macho Bar
4.6 km
Experience the dynamic nightlife of Kyoto at Macho Bar, where cocktails meet entertainment in a bustling izakaya atmosphere.
cafe&bar Miltons Kyoto
4.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Kyoto at Miltons, a cozy bar offering exceptional drinks and a welcoming atmosphere in Nakagyo Ward.
White door speakeasy
4.7 km
Discover the hidden charm of Kyoto at the White Door Speakeasy, where craft cocktails and vintage ambiance create an unforgettable nightlife experience.
UNDERBAR-KYOTO
4.7 km
Dive into Kyoto's vibrant nightlife at UNDERBAR-KYOTO, where cocktails, darts, and music create an unforgettable evening.
