Otagi Nenbutsu Ji-Temple Buddha Rakan Statues

@tokiokid

Japan

•

Kyoto

•

Ukyo Ward

On the fringe of Arashiyama sits the Otagi Nenbutsu Ji-Temple. The historic temple has a tumultuous past, rife with misfortune after misfortune. The current temple dates back to 1955, though its historic significance dates back more than 1000 years. Today it is most known for its collection of 1,200 whimsical Rakan statues that each represent Buddha's disciples. The moss-covered carvings were each done by a different person, and thus each has its own carefree personality bringing a dose of humor to a spot with historic bad luck.

Plan

Overview

Skill level

Easy

Accessbility

Public Location

Hours

8 AM - 4:30 PM

Fee

Adults: 300 yen (2 USD); Elementary and junior high school students: Free

Pack

Wide-angle lens (35mm)
Sneakers or hiking shoes
Snacks
Water

How to get there

N35° 01' 53.1616"E135° 39' 41.1524"

I took this photo at Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple in Kyoto, Japan. To get there from Kyoto Station, take San-In Line to Saga-Arashiyama Station and walk 10 minutes to Kobuchicho. Then take a Kyoto Bus bound for Kiyotaki (62, 72, 92, 94) and get off at Otagiji-mae stop. The bus stop is right in front of the temple. This takes around 35 minutes. If you're already near Hankyu Arashiyama Station or Randen Arashiyama Station, you can directly take the bus for Otagiji-mae. It will take around 25 minutes. The bus stop is right in front of the temple. You will see the moss-covered Buddha Rakan statues outside. Address: 2-5 Sagatoriimoto Fukatanicho, Ukyo-ku