Enkoji Temple is in northeastern Kyoto, about a 15-minute walk from Shugakuin or Ichijoji Station on the Eizan Railways, or 20 minutes from Shugakuin Imperial Villa.
By train: From Kyoto Station, take the JR Nara Line to Tofukuji, transfer to the Keihan Main Line to Demachiyanagi, and switch to the Eizan Railways for Ichijoji Station. The trip takes 40 minutes and costs 650 yen one way.
By bus: Take bus 5 from Kyoto Station to Ichijoji Sagarimatsucho. The ride is 50 minutes and costs 230 yen. From there, it's a 5-10 minute walk to the temple.
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Enkoji Temple
59 of 75 in attractions in Kyoto
Enkoji Temple (圓光寺, Enkōji), nestled in northern Kyoto near the Shugakuin Imperial Villa, is renowned for its stunning autumn colors, which reach their peak in late November. Established in 1601 by shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu, this Rinzai Zen temple once served as a school open to the public. Its principal deity is the thousand-armed Kannon Bodhisattva.
The temple’s garden is a serene retreat, featuring a pond, vibrant maple trees, and a unique water basin that amplifies the gentle sound of dripping water. A short climb behind the garden offers breathtaking views of the temple and Kyoto, making Enkoji a must-visit spot in any season.
Hours and Fees
Enkoji Temple
- Opening hours
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9:00 to 17:00 (entry until 16:30)
- Closed
-
No closing days
- Entrance fee
-
600 yen
During autumn (Nov 9–Dec 8, 2024), visitors must book online, and the admission fee is 1000 yen.
Getting there
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English
Enkoji Temple
Official website
Japanese
Enkoji Temple
Official website
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