Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple, Settsu Travel Guide

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Discover Kyoto's hidden gem: Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple, a serene escape with 1200 unique Rakan statues in the tranquil Arashiyama hills.

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Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple

Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple, nestled in Kyoto's Arashiyama district, offers a unique and enchanting experience. Unlike typical temples, it's known for its collection of over 1,200 Rakan statues, each carved by different individuals, displaying a wide array of expressions and poses, blending spirituality with a touch of whimsy.

A brief summary to Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple

2-5 Sagatoriimoto Fukatanicho, Kyoto, Sagatoriimoto Fukatanicho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8439, JP
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Monday 9 am-4:15 pm
Tuesday 9 am-4:15 pm
Wednesday 9 am-4:15 pm
Thursday 9 am-4:15 pm
Friday 9 am-4:15 pm
Saturday 9 am-4:15 pm
Sunday 9 am-4:15 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple.

Allow at least an hour to explore the temple grounds and closely examine the unique Rakan statues.
Visit during the autumn months to experience the stunning backdrop of colorful foliage.
Arrive by bus or taxi, as the temple is located remotely and uphill from Arashiyama Station.
Combine your visit with a stroll through the Saga-Toriimoto Preserved Street for a glimpse of old Kyoto.

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Getting There

Public Transport

From JR Saga-Arashiyama Station, walk west for 10 minutes to the Nonomiya bus stop in Arashiyama. Take Kyoto bus #94 towards Kiyotaki and get off at the Otagi Dera Mae bus stop. The bus ride takes approximately 25 minutes and costs 230 yen per person.
Taxi

From JR Saga-Arashiyama Station, a taxi ride to Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple takes about 5 minutes and costs approximately 1,500 yen. Taxis are readily available on both sides of the station.
Walking

From JR Saga-Arashiyama Station, it is approximately a 45-minute uphill walk to Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple. Head towards the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, then continue towards Saga-Toriimoto Preserved Street. Follow the road uphill to the temple.

Discover more about Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple

Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple, hidden in the hills of Arashiyama, presents a delightful departure from the traditional solemnity of many Kyoto temples. Founded originally in the 8th century by Empress Shotoku in the Higashiyama area, the temple has faced numerous challenges, including floods and fires, leading to multiple relocations. It was moved to its current location in 1922 to preserve the remaining structures.The temple's transformation began in 1955 when Kocho Nishimura, a Buddhist monk and sculptor, became the head priest. He initiated a restoration project in the 1980s, inviting visitors to carve their own statues of Rakan, the disciples of Buddha. This resulted in a collection of over 1,200 unique stone figures, each reflecting the personality and interests of its creator.Exploring the temple grounds, visitors will discover statues with humorous expressions, unexpected poses, and even modern objects like tennis rackets or cassette players. The main hall, dating back to the Kamakura period (1185-1333), houses a statue of Kannon, the Bodhisattva of Mercy. The temple is open daily, except Wednesdays (unless it's a national holiday), from 9:00 am to 4:15 pm. Otagi Nenbutsuji offers a memorable blend of history, art, and nature, far from the usual tourist trails.