Ryōzen Kannon Temple, Settsu Travel Guide

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A serene Kyoto temple featuring a towering Kannon statue, offering peace and remembrance in the historic Higashiyama district.

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Ryōzen Kannon Temple

Ryōzen Kannon Temple in Kyoto's Higashiyama district is a unique Buddhist temple and war memorial, established in 1955. It features a towering 24-meter statue of Kannon, the Goddess of Mercy, and serves as a solemn space for reflection on the Pacific War. The temple honors all victims, including Allied soldiers, promoting peace and compassion.

A brief summary to Ryōzen Kannon Temple

526-2 Shimokawaracho, Kyoto, Shimokawaracho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0825, JP
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Monday 8:40 am-4 pm
Tuesday 8:40 am-4 pm
Wednesday 8:40 am-4 pm
Thursday 8:40 am-4 pm
Friday 8:40 am-4 pm
Saturday 8:40 am-4 pm
Sunday 8:40 am-4 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and experience the temple's serene atmosphere.
Take a moment to meditate or reflect in the peaceful garden areas.
Don't forget your camera; the views from the temple are breathtaking, especially at sunset.
Consider purchasing incense to pay respects to the deceased and purify the surroundings.

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Getting There

Public Transport

From Kyoto Station, take Kyoto City Bus #100 or #206 to the 'Gion' bus stop. The bus ride takes approximately 20-30 minutes. From Gion bus stop, walk uphill for about 10 minutes to reach Ryōzen Kannon Temple. The bus fare is ¥230.
Walking

If you are near Kodaiji Temple, head east, following the signs towards Ryōzen Kannon Temple. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes. From Shijo Keihan Station, the temple is a 15-minute walk.
Taxi

From Kyoto Station, a taxi ride to Ryōzen Kannon Temple takes approximately 5-7 minutes, covering a distance of about 4 km. The estimated taxi fare ranges from ¥1700 to ¥2700. Taxis are readily available at Kyoto Station.

Discover more about Ryōzen Kannon Temple

Nestled in Kyoto's historic Higashiyama Ward, the Ryōzen Kannon Temple is a striking monument dedicated to peace and remembrance. Founded in 1955 by Hirosuke Ishikawa, it commemorates those who perished in the Pacific War. The temple's most prominent feature is the 24-meter tall statue of Kannon, the Goddess of Mercy, a symbol of compassion visible from across eastern Kyoto.Unlike many traditional temples, Ryōzen Kannon uniquely blends Buddhist architecture with modern design. Visitors can enter the statue and see an enshrined Eleven-headed image of Kannon. The temple also houses memorials for Japanese soldiers and civilians, as well as Allied prisoners of war, reflecting an inclusive approach to memorialization. A chapel with stained glass windows serves as a memorial to the war dead, with memorial services held four times daily.The temple grounds feature beautiful gardens, altars, and monuments, encouraging quiet contemplation. Visitors can light incense and pray for blessings. The temple also contains a large reflecting pool with lotus blossoms in the summer and a stone representing Buddha's footprint. Ryōzen Kannon is near other attractions such as Maruyama Park, Yasaka Shrine, and Kodaiji Temple, making it an integral part of Kyoto's cultural landscape.