Tōfuku-ji Temple

Religious spot

★ 4.9 (42K+ reviews) • 535K+ booked

Nestled in the southeastern part of Kyoto, Tōfuku-ji Temple is a captivating Zen sanctuary renowned for its breathtaking autumn colors and serene beauty. Founded in 1236 by the influential Fujiwara clan, this historic temple stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of Japanese Zen Buddhism. As one of Kyoto's Five Great Zen Temples, Tōfuku-ji is a harmonious blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, offering a unique glimpse into the spiritual and cultural heritage of Japan. Renowned for its stunning architecture and serene gardens, this masterpiece of Zen architecture and garden design invites travelers to explore its tranquil beauty and historical significance, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking tranquility and inspiration.

15 Chome-778 Honmachi, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0981, Japan

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4.9 /5

42K+ reviews

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Klook User

1 Jul

Yuki was our day trip tour guide for Kyoto and she was great, providing info and insights about the places we are visiting.

Klook User

1 Jul

We had an amazing tour today, and our guide Lucia made it extra special. Everything was well-organized from the start—we received all the info we needed about the meetup and itinerary in advance. On the bus, Lucia clearly explained everything, making sure everyone was comfortable and informed before each destination. She was kind, attentive, funny, and such a sweetheart. Her energy really made the day enjoyable. The tour itself was smooth, fun, and full of adventure. I especially appreciated how Lucia made sure we got back to the hotel safely after a long day. I’ll definitely take this tour again when I visit in October and highly recommend it to others. Thank you, Lucia!

POON ********

1 Jul

location is good with spaceous rooom and a super nice mattress. Avanti mall is just next to it, good for shopping

Klook User

30 Jun

we had tiger as our tour guide and he was awesome. told us valuable information about the places we were visiting and allowed us to have a choice of exploring with him or on our own.

클룩 회원

30 Jun

If you want to travel to Kyoto during your short Osaka trip, I think a guided tour is the best (JR or other transportation...). Also, the guide's Kyoto travel tips and explanations about Kyoto culture made for an enjoyable trip (a must-try for clams!)

Klook 用戶

29 Jun

The one-day tour saved a lot of time on taking the bus and finding the way. The tour guide could speak Chinese and introduced us to delicious restaurants, which really made us feel at ease. It is worth recommending again.

kittima **********

29 Jun

There are many staffs in the shop. We booked in the morning before the shop opened, so we had to wait a bit. The staffs in the shop can speak Chinese and English. Most of the customers are probably Chinese because the staffs often speak Chinese. The clothes are cute, the hair style is done quickly, beautiful. Everyone in the shop is ready to serve.

Klook 用戶

29 Jun

Thanks to the guide Amanda for the bilingual introduction! , and for ensuring a smooth trip! ##If you don't want to find and wait for the bus, a one-day tour is a good choice. ##You don't have to worry about carrying things when you buy things at the scenic spot. You can put them on the bus first, and go to the next scenic spot with both hands free. ##The time for visiting the scenic spot may be more limited; you can walk to the main attractions you want to visit, and the small happiness around may wait until you have time. Because you have to walk a distance to the main attraction at the entrance of the scenic spot, the way to and from the scenic spot is up and down, but it is confirmed that you can visit it! The lunch time will be more compressed.

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Remarkable Landmarks and Must-Visit Sights

Tsūten-kyō Bridge

Prepare to be enchanted by the Tsūten-kyō Bridge, a breathtaking marvel that offers one of the most stunning views in Kyoto. As you stroll along this 100-meter-long covered walkway, you'll be surrounded by a sea of vibrant maple trees, especially captivating during the autumn months. Whether you're a nature lover or a photography enthusiast, this iconic bridge is a must-visit, providing an unforgettable experience of floating amidst a kaleidoscope of colors.

Sanmon Gate

Step through history at the Sanmon Gate, a towering testament to Zen architecture and one of Japan's oldest gates. Dating back to 1425, this 22-meter-tall structure serves as a majestic entrance to the Tōfuku-ji Temple grounds. As you pass through its grand doors, you'll be transported to a world of spiritual reflection and architectural splendor, making it an essential stop on your journey through Kyoto's rich cultural heritage.

Hojo Garden

Discover tranquility at the Hojo Garden, where the art of Zen gardening comes to life. Once the living quarters of the head priest, this serene space is surrounded by four distinct rock gardens, each with its own unique character. From the meticulous arrangement of pebbles and rocks to the lush greenery of moss and trees, the Hojo Garden offers a peaceful retreat for those seeking a moment of reflection and a deeper appreciation of nature's beauty.

Cultural and Historical Significance

Tōfuku-ji Temple stands as a beacon of Zen Buddhism in Kyoto, with its roots deeply embedded in the history of the Fujiwara clan. Founded in 1236 by Chancellor Kujō Michiie, this temple was designed to emulate the grandeur of Chinese monasteries. Despite facing challenges like fires, it has been lovingly restored, maintaining its majestic presence and historical significance. As you wander through its grounds, you'll be walking through a living testament to Japan's rich cultural tapestry.

Local Cuisine

While exploring the serene beauty of Tōfuku-ji, treat your taste buds to Kyoto's exquisite culinary offerings. Delight in kaiseki, a traditional multi-course Japanese meal that showcases the art of seasonal ingredients. Don't miss out on savoring local specialties like mackerel sushi and perfectly crispy tempura, each bite offering a unique taste of Kyoto's rich food heritage.

Artistic Heritage

Art lovers will find Tōfuku-ji Temple a treasure trove of artistic wonders. The temple houses a remarkable nehan-zu painting, depicting Buddha in his final moments, which is the second largest of its kind in Japan. Adding to the temple's artistic allure is the 'Blue Dragon' ceiling painting by Inshō Dōmoto, which brings a vibrant and dynamic energy to the temple's serene halls. These masterpieces offer a glimpse into the profound artistic legacy that Tōfuku-ji proudly upholds.

Tōfuku-ji Temple