Hondo: A Serene Sanctuary in Kyoto
Discover the serene beauty of Hondo, a tranquil Buddhist temple in Kyoto's Arashiyama district, steeped in history and spiritual significance.
Nestled in the picturesque Arashiyama district, Hondo is a tranquil Buddhist temple that invites tourists to explore its serene gardens, intricate architecture, and spiritual ambiance. A perfect escape from the bustling city, it offers a glimpse into Japan's rich cultural heritage and spiritual practices.
A brief summary to Hondo
- Arashiyama Kokuzoyamacho, 虚空蔵法輪寺, Kyoto, Arashiyama Kokuzoyamacho, Nishikyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-0006, JP
- +8175-862-0013
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy a quieter experience and witness the temple in the soft morning light.
- Take your time exploring the gardens; they are perfect for photography and provide a peaceful atmosphere.
- Respect the local customs by speaking softly and maintaining a respectful demeanor while on the temple grounds.
- Check the temple's schedule for special ceremonies or events that might coincide with your visit.
- Bring a small notebook to jot down your thoughts or sketches as you enjoy the surroundings.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from central Settsu, head east on Route 170. Continue on this road for approximately 15 kilometers. Take the exit toward the Kyoto area and merge onto the Meishin Expressway. Follow the signs for Kyoto and exit at the Kyoto Nishiyama interchange. From there, follow the signs to Arashiyama. Once you reach Arashiyama, navigate through the local streets to find Hondo located at Arashiyama Kokuzoyamacho. Parking is available near the temple, but it may incur a fee ranging from 500 to 1000 yen depending on the duration.
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Public Transportation
To reach Hondo via public transportation, start by taking the train from Settsu. Board the JR train at Settsu Station heading towards Osaka. Transfer at Kyoto Station to the JR San-in Line towards Saga-Arashiyama. After about 30 minutes, get off at Saga-Arashiyama Station. From the station, it's approximately a 15-minute walk to Hondo. Follow the signs toward Arashiyama and then look for directions to Kokuzoyamacho. The total fare for this journey will be around 750 yen.
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Combination of Car and Public Transportation
For a mix of driving and public transport, drive to the nearest major train station, which is Takatsuki Station. Park your car at a local parking lot (fees vary from 500 to 1000 yen). From Takatsuki Station, take the JR train towards Kyoto and transfer to the JR San-in Line at Kyoto Station towards Saga-Arashiyama. After about 30 minutes, get off at Saga-Arashiyama Station. Walk for about 15 minutes to reach Hondo, located in Arashiyama Kokuzoyamacho.
Discover more about Hondo
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