Rurikō-in Temple

Religious spot

★ 4.9 (21K+ reviews) • 241K+ booked

Discover the enchanting allure of Rurikō-in Temple, a hidden gem nestled at the base of Mt. Hiei in Kyoto's northern mountains. This former Meiji period villa, now a Buddhist temple dedicated to Amitābha, captivates visitors with its stunning architecture and breathtaking views of lush maple leaves. Known for its mesmerizing Japanese garden, Rurikō-in Temple offers a vibrant tapestry of colorful maple trees, especially during the autumn season. Open only during the vibrant spring and autumn seasons, this exclusive destination provides a rare opportunity to immerse oneself in unparalleled beauty and tranquility. A visit to Rurikō-in Temple is a journey into a world of serene landscapes and spiritual solace, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers, photographers, and those seeking a memorable escape into nature's beauty.

55 Kamitakano Higashiyama, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-0067, Japan

Overview

Things to do

Hotels

Restaurants

4.9 /5

21K+ reviews

Read all reviews

Lesly *******

1 Jul

Booked a Ramen Cooking Class here in Kyoto. Mo Mo and Amir were fantastic teachers and very friendly people. Very much enjoyed and HIGHLY recommend for everyone that loves ramen to attend this. Ramen after the class was delcicious! 10/10 recommend!

Klook客路用户

1 Jul

It was afternoon when I went there, and there was no one in the store. The lady was Japanese, she was quiet and quick, and she quickly finished the two sets of matching for me and my friend. Very nice~

Klook User

30 Jun

The 2 men that taught us the process of making ramen were amazing and so friendly, they made the effort to explain things step by step so it was easy to follow and bonded over anime and ramen. A unique and one of a kind experience, it was just my partner and I which made the experience more private and enjoyable. Time just flew

reilly ********

30 Jun

I had so much fun walking around with a kimono on, it was hot but the kimono was comfy so it didnt iritate me much. They have a wide selection of kimono and the staff are so kind, they are so jolly and nice. The place is small but homey and comforting, everything is accesible. The location is near the Gion station and also the Yasaka shrine and other beautiful traditional places you can take pictures at, super recommend this place! Great for its price.

클룩 회원

29 Jun

This is my first time writing a review on Klook. I made a reservation at 10 AM on Sunday and went there, but it was quiet and they guided me quickly, so I finished choosing and setting up in 30 minutes. First of all, I liked that they let me store a certain amount of luggage! (We didn't know that and left it in a coin locker at Kyoto Station, but) They also lent me a small pouch bag, so I was able to carry my luggage without any problems. They explained to me well that I should wear a yukata instead of a kimono because the weather was getting warmer, and they only looked at the design ㅋㅋㅋ They kindly explained to me that it would be hot whenever I was choosing a kimono, so I was grateful🥹 Even though my hair was short, they put it up nicely, and they even lent me a fan, which was very useful. (You should bring your own parasol, the sunlight is really hot) Thanks to them, I was able to travel very nicely. I understood what they meant by everyone being kind. They explained everything one by one, and the person who did my hair was especially attentive, so I was really touched... . The hair is amazing... ., This quality for this price, and famous places like Kiyomizu-dera and Sannenzaka are not too far away. 15 minutes on foot? We had a nice yukata and walked around nicely. Oh, and it was nice that there were sizes for men up to 2XL. My boyfriend also wore it in a size that fit him well. Thank you. If I come to Kyoto again, I will definitely choose it again without hesitation!!

Chan **********

29 Jun

Tour guide Andy’s explanation of each attraction was very interesting, allowing me to learn more besides just seeing the attractions.

Yu ******

29 Jun

Sakura Kimono Store has 2 branches. We went to the wrong one, but the staff was still very polite and let us have a kimono experience there. The weather was very hot, so we chose yukata. The staff who helped us put on the kimono were very nice and helped us choose accessories. They made us look very beautiful/handsome. It is a store worth recommending.

Shen *****

29 Jun

During the 7-day 6-night free travel, I specially arranged a day to sign up for a group tour in Kyoto. The main attractions this time were Kinkakuji Temple, Kiyomizu Temple and Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine. The overall itinerary was all the attractions I really wanted to visit. I was super nervous before departure, after all, it was my first time traveling in this way, and I wanted to participate selfishly, but in fact I really felt great. The entire time control and itinerary arrangement were all very appropriate. I would like to thank our tour guide Xiao Fu (Alvin) 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟. During the trip, he explained the history of the attractions in Chinese and English, and shared many recommended restaurants, allowing us to use time quickly and accurately, and he would also remind everyone in the group of the meeting time and place in a timely manner. Our group had a large number of people and we took the bus, but Xiao Fu still cared about everyone's situation, whether there was anything they wanted to eat, etc. He was always willing to help. Especially when my son fell and injured both knees, Xiao Fu immediately went to buy disinfectant and dressings for us. I am really grateful, otherwise we might not be able to have fun. The child felt embarrassed afterwards and wanted to thank this big brother. We returned to Osaka at nearly 6 o'clock and had plenty of time to go shopping. After returning home, everyone felt that they had a fulfilling and happy day.

Shinkyogoku Shopping Street Union

499K+ visitors

441K+ visitors

447K+ visitors

495K+ visitors

474K+ visitors

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

491K+ visitors

Teramachi-dori

399K+ visitors

Hōkō-ji Temple

534K+ visitors

Nijō Castle

491K+ visitors

When is the best time to visit Rurikō-in Temple in Kyoto?

How can I get to Rurikō-in Temple using public transportation?

What are the admission details for Rurikō-in Temple?

When is the special autumn viewing period at Rurikō-in Temple?

What is the best way to reach Rurikō-in Temple from Kyoto Station?

Are there any special ticket requirements for visiting Rurikō-in Temple during the autumn?

When is Rurikō-in Temple open to visitors?

What are the transportation options to reach Rurikō-in Temple?

Remarkable Landmarks and Must-Visit Sights

Garden of Lapis Lazuli (Ruri no Niwa)

Step into a world of ethereal beauty at the Garden of Lapis Lazuli, where the vibrant hues of maple leaves create a mesmerizing tapestry against the polished wooden floors. From the second floor, enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view that captures the essence of the Pure Land. On the ground floor, find tranquility in a tatami mat room, where the garden's moss-covered base and gentle stream offer a serene escape. This garden is a must-see for anyone seeking a peaceful retreat amidst nature's splendor.

Autumn Foliage

Experience the magic of autumn at Rurikō-in Temple, where the gardens transform into a vibrant canvas of reds, oranges, and yellows. Renowned for its breathtaking fall landscapes, this temple is one of the Kansai region's top destinations for leaf peeping. The stunning autumn colors provide a picturesque backdrop, perfect for capturing unforgettable memories. Whether you're a nature lover or a photography enthusiast, the autumn foliage at Rurikō-in is sure to leave you in awe.

Sutra Copying

Immerse yourself in the ancient Buddhist practice of sutra copying, or shakyō, at Rurikō-in. This devotional activity offers a unique opportunity to connect with the temple's spiritual heritage. Settle into the peaceful ambiance of the Shoin's second floor, where low desks and cushions await. As you carefully transcribe the sacred texts, feel a sense of calm and reflection. Leave your copied sutra at the Buddhist altar as an offering, completing a truly enriching experience.

Cultural and Historical Significance

Rurikō-in Temple, once the villa of Prince Sanjō Sanetomi, a prominent figure from the Meiji period, offers a fascinating glimpse into Japan's past. Renovated in the 1930s, it now houses a Buddhist altar dedicated to Amitabha Buddha. The name 'Rurikō-in,' meaning 'lapis lazuli light,' perfectly captures the temple's tranquil and spiritual atmosphere. Originally owned by Taisho-era businessman Tanaka Gentarō, the site has a storied history, evolving from a private estate to a restaurant and inn, before its transformation into a Buddhist temple in 2005. Managed by Komyoji Temple in Gifu, Rurikō-in is a testament to the preservation of cultural heritage and natural beauty.

Cultural Significance

Rurikō-in Temple is a treasure trove of cultural and historical significance, offering visitors a chance to delve into traditional Japanese architecture and garden design. Its limited opening period adds an element of exclusivity, making it a must-visit for those eager to explore Japan's rich heritage. The temple's serene environment and historical roots provide a unique opportunity to connect with the country's past.

Rurikō-in Temple