Tenryu-ji Temple

Tenryu-ji Temple is one of the most atmospheric locations in Arashiyama, offering a rare blend of traditional Japanese garden design, mountain scenery, gentle walking paths, and direct access to the famous bamboo forest. For families looking for nature, open spaces, light walking routes, and great photography spots, the temple provides a calm and enjoyable day without pressure. Its spacious garden, reflective pond, and peaceful surroundings make it an ideal choice for travelers with children.

How do you get to Tenryu-ji Temple?

For families, renting a car is the most convenient way to reach Tenryu-ji Temple. Public transportation works well, but having a car makes the day far more flexible: you can arrive early, avoid crowded buses, stop at viewpoints, and easily combine the temple with nearby parks and river areas. Parking near the temple costs ¥1,000 per day, and cars must leave before 17:00.

Tip from the Itinerary Expert:
When I arrive early and park close to the temple, the entire visit feels calmer. Before school groups arrive, the garden feels almost private.

If you prefer not to rent a car, public transport is still simple and efficient.

JR Line: Get off at Saga-Arashiyama Station, then walk 5-10 minutes.

Randen Tram: A small and easy-to-use local tram that reaches the area.

City Bus: Some Kyoto routes operate only by bus.
A one-way public transport fare inside Kyoto is ¥240.

When is the best time to visit Tenryu-ji Temple?

Tenryu-ji Temple changes noticeably with the seasons, and this variation is a major part of its charm.

• Spring: Soft colors, gentle fragrances, and light that works beautifully for photography.
• Summer: Hot and humid (around 75-80% humidity), but the garden looks vibrant and full of life. After rain, the atmosphere becomes almost misty.
• Autumn: Known as the most beautiful season, with deep red and orange maple trees surrounding the pond and mountains.
• Winter: Quiet and peaceful, but cold. Inside the temple buildings you must remove shoes, and the floor can feel very cold in winter months.

What time of day is best?

Arriving at 08:30, right at opening, gives families room to explore the garden before crowds grow.

Tip from the Itinerary Expert:
From my own visits, early morning light on the pond creates some of the best photos of the day, and the Bamboo Grove is almost empty at that hour.

This view took my breath away – the pond, the mountains, and the temple together created the perfect moment.

What can families see inside Tenryu-ji Temple?

Tenryu-ji Temple is a UNESCO site and one of Kyoto’s most significant temples, but for family travelers, the highlight is the landscape. The visit centers around open views, calm paths, and moments that feel spacious even on a busy day.

Sogenchi Garden (Sogenchi Teien, 曹源池庭園)

This 14th-century garden has been preserved almost exactly in its original form – something extremely rare in Japan. It follows the principle of borrowed scenery, where the pond, stones, and trees blend naturally with the surrounding mountains to create one continuous landscape.

What families can enjoy here:

• A wide reflective pond with clear, mirror-like water.
• Easy walking paths suitable for younger children.
• Multiple colorful viewpoints.
• A small waterfall and the symbolic “carp stone,” representing growth and perseverance.

Most visits through the garden take 30-60 minutes, depending on how often you stop for photos.

Is there direct access to the Bamboo Grove from Tenryu-ji Temple?

Yes. One of Tenryu-ji’s biggest advantages is that the north gate leads directly into the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Grove (嵐山竹林). This entrance allows families to avoid the crowded main entry point.

Tip from the Itinerary Expert:
I always begin with Sogenchi Garden and continue to the Bamboo Grove afterward. This creates a smooth walking flow and avoids walking against the crowd.

What is around Tenryu-ji Temple that families will enjoy?

Arashiyama offers a wide range of nature-based activities and light adventures, making it an ideal area for families spending the day outdoors.

Togetsukyo Bridge
A scenic river and mountain viewpoint, especially beautiful at sunset. Families can enjoy a gentle walk along the riverbank and take memorable photos in the soft afternoon light.

Monkey Park Iwatayama
A 20-minute uphill walk suitable for active children. At the top, you’ll find a wide panoramic view over Kyoto and a group of monkeys roaming freely in a natural environment.

Sagano Scenic Train
A popular combination for families: a slow, colorful train ride through the mountains followed by a calm river boat journey back through the valley.

Kameyama Park
A quiet natural park with easy paths and peaceful viewpoints. It works well as a relaxing stop before or after your visit to the temple.

Arashiyama Shopping Street
A lively street filled with small shops, bakeries, local snacks, and charming souvenirs. Children especially enjoy the character-themed sweets and playful shop displays.

What family-friendly activities can you enjoy near Tenryu-ji Temple?

Families will find plenty of easy, engaging activities around Tenryu-ji Temple, especially for children who enjoy nature and light adventure.

• Walking through the Bamboo Grove (Arashiyama Bamboo Forest).
• Stopping for photos around Sogenchi Garden (Sogenchi Garden).
• Visiting Monkey Park Iwatayama for wildlife and panoramic views.
• Riding the colorful Sagano Scenic Train.
• Trying Japanese street snacks such as matcha ice cream and traditional sweets.

Where can families eat near Tenryu-ji Temple?

Inside the temple grounds, there is a vegetarian restaurant that requires advance reservation. It offers a quiet, traditional dining experience.

Around the temple, families can easily find:

• Small cafés
• Colorful bakeries
• Simple noodle shops
• Matcha dessert stands
• Shops offering traditional Japanese sweets

Tip from the Itinerary Expert:
Before heading up to Monkey Park, I always take a light meal. Children manage the short uphill walk much better after eating.

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More Info

What are the entry fees and the ideal duration at Tenryu-ji Temple?

Garden only: ¥500
Buildings: additional ¥300

Families generally spend 1-2 hours at Tenryu-ji Temple, including the walk through Sogenchi Garden and the direct exit to the Bamboo Grove.

Tip from the Itinerary Expert:
A relaxed pace works best for family visits. Sitting by the pond and feeling the breeze from the mountains can become the most memorable moment of the day.

Walking up this path felt like entering a different world — the colors, the air, everything was simply perfect.

1-Day Family Itinerary

Morning (10:00-13:00)

Arrive at Saga-Arashiyama Station (10-15 minutes by JR, plus a 5-10 minute walk). Enter Sogenchi Garden (¥500) or the combined garden + temple ticket (¥800). Spend 60-90 minutes exploring the reflective pond, colorful viewpoints, and shaded walking paths.

Lunch (13:00-15:00)

Exit through the North Gate directly into the Bamboo Grove (Arashiyama Bamboo Forest) – about one hour with photo stops. Then walk 10 minutes to the main street and choose a noodle shop or a small café near the river.

Evening (15:00-18:00)

Walk 15 minutes to Togetsukyo Bridge (渡月橋, Togetsukyo Bridge) for river and mountain views (45-60 minutes). Afterward, browse Arashiyama Shopping Street for snacks, matcha desserts, and a simple early dinner before returning by JR.

Traveler Reviews about Tenryu-ji Temple

Emily Carter – April 2018
I visited Tenryu-ji with my two children after walking through the Bamboo Grove, and the garden felt incredibly peaceful. The reflections on the pond were beautiful. It became busy after 9:00, so arriving early made the whole visit much easier.

Michael Adams – May 2019
We arrived right at opening, and it was absolutely worth it. The garden looked like a painting, with quiet paths and mountain views. By the time we left, crowds were growing. My kids loved exploring the smaller paths around the pond.

Sarah Mitchell – October 2021
The autumn colors made the entire garden glow. I spent about an hour walking, taking photos, and enjoying quieter corners. It was a bit crowded, but once you move deeper inside, it’s easy to find calm spots. Clean facilities were very helpful with kids.

Daniel Brooks – August 2022
We entered through the north gate after the Bamboo Grove. It was hot and humid, but the shaded areas helped. The temple building felt cool inside. The only challenge was that everyone looked for shade, so a few spots felt crowded.

Olivia Turner – March 2023
We chose the garden-only ticket, and it was perfect for a short family visit. My children enjoyed noticing small details like the stones and koi. Bring cash – the ticket counter doesn’t take cards. The paths are easy and great for kids.

Benjamin Scott – September 2023
After walking through the Bamboo Grove, Tenryu-ji felt wonderfully calm. The short uphill path gave us a great view of Kyoto. Next time I’d come earlier – around 9:00 it became noticeably busier.

Laura Bennett – April 2024
The garden felt almost unreal: calm water, blooming trees, and a gentle breeze. Even with people around, we found good photo spots. It’s an easy and refreshing stop for families, especially if you enjoy nature walks.

Jason Miller – August 2025
We visited on a hot summer morning, and the garden still felt peaceful. Entering from the Bamboo Grove made it a smoother experience. No queues at the entrance, which helped with kids. The reflections on the pond were the highlight.

Tips from the Itinerary Expert

• Arrive before 09:00. When I visit early, the garden paths are almost empty, and my children enjoy the calm atmosphere without crowds.
• Enter through the South Gate and walk straight into Sogenchi Garden (Sogenchi Garden). It creates a smoother and quieter start to the visit.
• Use the North Gate to reach the Bamboo Grove (Arashiyama Bamboo Grove) directly. I always choose this route to avoid the busiest entrance to the forest.
• Choose the garden-only ticket (¥500) when visiting with children. It’s shorter, easier, and the scenery is the real highlight.
• Bring water in summer – humidity can reach 75-80%. A short break by the pond helps everyone cool down.
• Walk the short outer uphill path inside the garden. It takes only a few minutes but offers a wonderful panoramic view of Kyoto.
• Avoid the central shaded areas at midday, as families naturally gather there. Walking the outer loops keeps the route more comfortable.
• Exit toward the river road if you plan to visit Togetsukyo Bridge (Togetsukyo Bridge) – it’s an easier walk for children than the main shopping street.
• Carry cash, as the ticket counter does not accept cards. It saves time and avoids returning to the busy main street.
• On rainy days, the garden becomes especially beautiful – reflections in the pond sharpen, and there are fewer visitors.

Insights from the Itinerary Expert

I visited Tenryu-ji Temple (Tenryu-ji) in October 2023, and stepping into Sogenchi Garden (Sogenchi Garden) felt like entering a living landscape painting. The calm water, the mountain backdrop, and the quiet stone paths created a relaxing rhythm that worked wonderfully for families. Arriving early made a big difference – after 09:00, the number of visitors increased quickly, especially school groups.

During a previous summer visit, the humidity was a real challenge. Shaded areas filled fast, so I learned to walk along the outer paths for more space and airflow. The direct exit to the Bamboo Grove (Arashiyama Bamboo Grove) remains one of my favorite features; it keeps the visit smooth and gives children a sense of discovery without backtracking through crowds.

Tenryu-ji is a rare place where nature, simplicity, and traditional design come together to create an unforgettable family experience. I’ll be happy to help you design a personal itinerary that connects Tenryu-ji Temple with the other remarkable highlights of Japan.

I loved the calm inside this traditional hall – the soft light and tatami floors made it feel like time slowed down.

Price Table

FAQ about Tenryu-ji Temple

Is Tenryu-ji Temple crowded, and when is the best time to visit?
It can get very crowded, especially near the Bamboo Grove. Early morning or late afternoon is the calmest time.

Is there a shortcut from Tenryu-ji Temple to the Bamboo Forest?
Yes. The paid north-gate exit leads directly into the main Bamboo Forest path.

How difficult is walking around Tenryu-ji and the nearby area?
Most of the temple grounds are easy to walk, but Monkey Park involves a steep uphill climb.

What is the garden like? Is it good for children?
Sogenchi Garden is peaceful, colorful in many seasons, and easy to walk-great for children who enjoy nature.

Is the interior of the main hall worth the additional fee?
You can view most of it from the garden, so the extra ¥300 is optional unless you want to enter.

Is photography allowed inside the temple buildings?
No. Photography inside the Dharma Hall with the Cloud Dragon painting is not permitted.

What should families prepare for weather-wise? (first-hand)
I visited during heavy humidity-around 75-80%. Light clothing and a small umbrella helped a lot.

Is it easy to combine Tenryu-ji with other family activities?
Yes. It connects directly to the Bamboo Forest and is close to riverside walks and Arashiyama’s shops.

How long should families plan to spend at Tenryu-ji Temple? (first-hand)
I spent about an hour exploring the garden-it felt just right without rushing.

Is parking available near Tenryu-ji Temple?
Yes. Parking costs about ¥1,000 per day, with a required exit before 17:00.

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