Ruriko-in Temple (Spring)

@tokiokid

Japan

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Kyoto

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Sakyo Ward

Only 40 minutes from Kyoto Station, the pocket-sized temple of Ruriko-in is famous for its mystery. This is because it is only open to the public for a few days a year—in the spring season when the forest is lush with green maple leaves and in fall when the foliage explodes with fiery autumnal hues. You can also see the beautiful Ruri-no-niwa, or the garden of lapis lazuli in front of the temple. Watch for the jade-colored carpet of moss that is often said to glitter with flecks of blue.

Plan

Overview

Skill level

Easy

Accessbility

Public Location

Hours

10 AM - 5 PM

Fee

2,000 yen (USD 14)

Pack

Wide-angle lens (24mm)
Water
Books or music (in case the wait is too long)

How to get there

N35° 03' 48.4416"E135° 48' 30.906"

This photo was taken at Ruriko-in Temple in Kyoto. It is recommended that you take public transport as they don't have parking. By subway: Take the Eizan Electric Railway from Demachi-yanagi Station and get off at Yase-Hieizanguchi Station. From there, it will be a 5-minute walk to get to the temple. By bus: From Kokusaikaikan Station, take a Kyoto Bus bound for Ohara, Kodeishi to Yaseekimae. It takes 7 minutes on foot from the bus stop. Cross the Takanogawa wooden bridge once you get off public transport and follow the road to the right. You will see some signs toward the temple along the way. I visited Ruriko-in when there were COVID measures in place and an advance reservation was required. For information on how to make a reservation and how long it takes to get in, please refer to https://rurikoin.komyoji.com/lp/en Keep in mind that Ruriko-in Temple is only open on certain days in spring and fall, so make sure to check beforehand.