Shoju-in Temple: A Heartfelt Retreat in Ujitawara
Discover Kyoto's hidden gem: a serene temple with a heart-shaped window, wind chimes, and stunning natural beauty in Ujitawara's tea region.
Escape to Shoju-in Temple (Furin-ji), nestled in the tea-growing region of Ujitawara, Kyoto. This serene temple, with its charming heart-shaped window and wind chime festival, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. Discover tranquility amidst lush greenery and artistic details.
A brief summary to Shoju-in (Furin-ji)
- Kawakami-149 Okuyamada, Ujitawara, Kawakami Okuyamada, Tsuzuki District, Kyoto, 610-0211, JP
- +81774-88-3601
- Visit website
- 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
Local tips
- Visit during the Wind Chime Festival (July-September) for a unique sensory experience.
- Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially on weekends and holidays.
- Check the temple's website for seasonal events and potential closures.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the temple grounds and nearby tea plantations.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Uji Station (Keihan Uji Line or JR Nara Line) or Shintanabe Station (Kintetsu Kyoto Line), take the Kyoto Keihan Bus towards 'Ichumae/Ryokuenzaka/Kogyodanchi'. Get off at the 'Ichumae' bus stop. From there, transfer to a community bus to the 'Okuyamada' bus stop and walk for 10 minutes, or take a taxi for approximately 10 minutes. Kyoto City buses typically cost ¥230 for adults. Community bus fares are around ¥200. A taxi from Ichumae to Shoju-in Temple will cost approximately ¥1500-¥2000.
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Taxi
Taxis are available from Uji Station (Keihan or JR Nara Line) or Shintanabe Station (Kintetsu Kyoto Line). The taxi ride takes approximately 30 minutes. The estimated taxi fare from Uji Station to Shoju-in Temple is around ¥5500-¥6000.
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Car
From Osaka, take the Meishin Highway to Oyamazaki Junction, then the Keiji Bypass, exiting at Ujinishi Interchange and continuing for 30 minutes. Alternatively, take the Daini Keihan Road, exiting at Hirakata Gakken Interchange and continuing for 40 minutes. Parking is available at the temple for ¥300 for regular-sized vehicles. Large vehicles must use the nearby Kaikan space with prior arrangement.
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