Daitokuji Temple

Recommended

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11 of 75 in attractions in Kyoto

Daitokuji (大徳寺) in northern Kyoto is a prominent Zen temple complex and the head temple of the Rinzai sect's Daitokuji school of Japanese Zen Buddhism. Founded in 1319, it’s known for its diverse Zen gardens and architectural beauty. The temple became a center for the tea ceremony, associated with tea master Sen no Rikyu and warlords Oda Nobunaga and Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Visitors can explore several subtemples, such as Daisenin, famous for its stunning rock gardens, and Ryogenin, home to unique dry landscape gardens.

Daitokuji also houses Kotoin, renowned for its maple trees, and Zuihoin, known for its intriguing Christian-influenced garden design. The complex showcases an array of beautifully crafted gardens, each reflecting Zen aesthetics. The peaceful atmosphere makes it an excellent destination for those interested in Japanese culture and history. Visitors can experience not only the architecture but also the rich history linked to the tea ceremony and Kyoto’s feudal past.

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Hours and Fees

Daisenin

Ryogenin

Kotoin

Zuihoin

Getting there

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Daitokuji is a short walk from the Daitokuji-mae bus stop, which is a 45-minute bus ride (230 yen) from Kyoto Station on buses 205 or 206. You can also reach it in 30 minutes by bus number 9 to the Kitaoji-Horikawa bus stop (230 yen). Alternatively, take the Karasuma Subway Line to Kitaoji Station (13 minutes, 260 yen) and then take a short bus ride (230 yen) or walk for 15 minutes to the temple.