Hōrin-ji, Settsu Travel Guide

4.2 (1157)

Discover tranquility at Hōrin-ji Temple in Arashiyama, Kyoto, offering stunning views, rich history, and a unique blend of ancient and modern traditions.

Nestled in the Arashiyama district of Kyoto, Hōrin-ji is a Shingon Buddhist temple offering a tranquil escape from the bustling tourist crowds. Known for its stunning views and dedication to Kokūzō Bosatsu, the bodhisattva of wisdom and memory, the temple provides a serene atmosphere for reflection and spiritual connection.

A brief summary to Hōrin-ji

Arashiyama Kokuzoyamacho, Kyoto, Arashiyama Kokuzoyamacho, Nishikyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-0006, JP
Click to display
Click to display

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

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Hōrin-ji.

Wear comfortable shoes, as there are many steps and pathways to explore around the temple grounds.
Visit during the spring or fall for the most vibrant natural scenery.
Consider visiting the temple via the back entrance, through ancient graveyards and moss gardens, for a particularly beautiful and peaceful experience.
Check the temple's schedule for special events or ceremonies that may be taking place during your visit.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Shinkansen Park

Settsukyo Gorge

Settsukyo Park

Tower of the Sun

Ibaraki Shrine

Explore Hōrin-ji on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Hōrin-ji, mapped for you.

Unlock the Best of Hōrin-ji

Buy tickets

No tickets available

Book tours with entry

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Kimono Photo Tour with Local Guide

5.0

27 reviews

$96.33

Book tours without entry

No tours available

Getting There

Walking

From the Arashiyama area, cross the Togetsukyō Bridge. After crossing the bridge, proceed straight ahead. Where the road curves to the left, look for a set of stone stairs positioned between two hotels. Ascend these stairs, which mark the back entrance to the temple, leading you through ancient graveyards and moss gardens. Follow the path to Hōrin-ji. There are no costs associated with this route.
Public Transport

From Kyoto Station, take the JR Sagano Line (also known as the JR Sanin Line) to Saga-Arashiyama Station. The one-way trip takes approximately 15 minutes and costs ¥240. From Saga-Arashiyama Station, it is a 5-10 minute walk to Hōrin-ji. Follow signs towards Togetsukyō Bridge and then proceed as described in the 'Walking' guidance. Alternatively, from Kyoto-Kawaramachi or Karasuma Station, take the Hankyu Main Line to Katsura Station, then transfer to the Hankyu Arashiyama Line. The trip costs ¥240 and takes about 20 minutes. From Hankyu Arashiyama Station, walk 5-10 minutes to central Arashiyama and follow the 'Walking' directions.
Driving

From Kyoto, navigate to Route 28 towards Arashiyama. Follow Route 28 to the temple location. Note that roads may be crowded during peak tourist season. Parking is available near Hōrin-ji, with typical fees around ¥500. Consider using Kyoto Parking Navi to locate nearby parking.

Discover more about Hōrin-ji

Hōrin-ji, also known as the Temple of the Dharma Wheel, is a Shingon Buddhist temple with a rich history dating back to 713 AD. Founded by Gyōki and originally named Kadonoi-dera, the temple is dedicated to Ākāśagarbha (Kokūzō Bosatsu), the bodhisattva of boundless space, revered as a bestower of wisdom and facilitator of mastery in various pursuits.Over the centuries, Hōrin-ji has been praised in literature and supported by emperors and influential figures. Damaged during the Onin War, it was later restored, with significant contributions from Toshiie Maeda and Keishoin, the mother of Shogun Tsunayoshi Tokugawa. The temple's main hall and gate were rebuilt after a fire in 1864.Today, Hōrin-ji offers visitors a peaceful retreat with lush greenery, well-maintained gardens, and traditional Japanese architecture. The temple is also known for worshiping the god who controls thunder, attracting donations from power-related companies seeking business prosperity. A unique blend of ancient traditions and modern faith is embodied in the Denden Shrine, which protects electricity and radio waves, and features memorials to inventors like Thomas Edison and Heinrich Hertz.One of Hōrin-ji's most distinctive events is the Jūsan Mairi, a coming-of-age ceremony for thirteen-year-old children who visit to pray for wisdom. Legend says that after their prayers, they must cross the Togetsukyō Bridge without looking back to retain their newfound wisdom. The temple also hosts the Hari-Kuyō ceremony, honoring broken sewing needles. From the observation deck near the main hall, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto, including the iconic Togetsukyō Bridge and the surrounding mountains.