Kozan-ji: A Sanctuary of History and Art
Discover ancient art, serene gardens, and Japan's first manga at Kyoto's Kozan-ji Temple, a hidden gem in the mountains.
Kozan-ji, nestled in the mountains northwest of Kyoto, is a UNESCO World Heritage site with a rich history dating back to the 8th century. Rebuilt in the 13th century by the monk Myōe, it houses national treasures, including the Chōjū-jinbutsu-giga scrolls, considered Japan's first manga, and boasts the oldest tea garden in Japan.
A brief summary to Kozan-ji
- 8 Umegahata Toganoocho, Kyoto, Umegahata Toganoocho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8295, JP
- +8175-861-4204
- Visit website
- Monday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Thursday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Friday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Saturday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Sunday 8:30 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit during autumn for stunning foliage, but be prepared for crowds and a possible entrance fee to the grounds.
- The original Chōjū-jinbutsu-giga scrolls are not on display at the temple; replicas are available for viewing.
- Combine your visit with nearby Jingo-ji and Saimyo-ji temples for a full day of exploring the Takao area.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Kyoto Station, take the JR Takao Keihoku Line bus to Toganoo (approx. 50 minutes, ¥500). Alternatively, take Kyoto City Bus #8 from Shijo Station to the Takao bus stop (approx. 45 minutes, ¥500, but the Kyoto City bus one-day pass only covers a portion of the fare). From the Toganoo bus stop, it is a 5-10 minute walk to Kozan-ji.
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Taxi
From central Kyoto, a taxi to Kozan-ji will take approximately 30-40 minutes, costing around ¥4,000-¥5,000. Note that traffic can be heavy during peak seasons, especially in late October and early November.
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