Tōfuku-ji Temple: A Zen Masterpiece in Kyoto
Discover Kyoto's Tōfuku-ji Temple: A Zen sanctuary with stunning gardens, historic architecture, and breathtaking autumn colors.
Tōfuku-ji Temple, founded in 1236, is one of Kyoto's five great Zen temples. Known for its stunning gardens, historic architecture, and vibrant autumn foliage, it offers a serene escape and a glimpse into Zen Buddhism.
A brief summary to Tōfuku-ji Temple
- 15 Chome-778 Honmachi, Kyoto, 15 Chome Honmachi, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0981, JP
- +8175-561-0087
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-3:30 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-3:30 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-3:30 pm
- Thursday 9 am-3:30 pm
- Friday 9 am-3:30 pm
- Saturday 9 am-3:30 pm
- Sunday 9 am-3:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning, especially during peak seasons like autumn, to avoid large crowds.
- Don't miss the Hojo Garden, with its unique gardens on each side.
- Take the JR Nara Line from Kyoto Station to Tofukuji Station for easy access.
- Entry to the temple grounds is free, but there are fees for the Hojo and Kaisando.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Kyoto Station, take the JR Nara Line to Tōfukuji Station (2 minutes, ¥65-¥95). Alternatively, take Kyoto City Bus 208 from Kyoto Station to Tōfukuji bus stop (15 minutes, ¥230). From Tōfukuji Station or bus stop, it's a 10-minute walk to the temple, following clearly marked signs.
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Taxi
From Kyoto Station, a taxi to Tōfuku-ji Temple takes approximately 8 minutes and costs between ¥2,211 and ¥3,100. Taxis are readily available at Kyoto Station. Look for the taxi rank on the north side of the station. Most taxis accept cash, credit cards, and IC cards. There is usually a 200 yen pick-up fee if you book a taxi.
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Walking
From Kyoto Station, it is approximately a 20-minute walk to Tōfuku-ji Temple. Head east from the station and follow signs to Tōfuku-ji. Note that the walk is about 1.8km.
Discover more about Tōfuku-ji Temple
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