[2025 Kyoto Attraction] Travel Guide for Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple (Updated Jan)

#goingplaces Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple in Kyoto is a hidden gem, known for its enchanting collection of over 1,200 stone rakan statues—each with unique, often humorous expressions. Situated in the serene Arashiyama area, this lesser-known temple offers a peaceful contrast to Kyoto’s more crowded spots. Originally founded in the 8th century, Otagi Nenbutsuji was later rebuilt after natural disasters, and the stone statues were added in the 1980s by worshippers and sculptors under the guidance of the temple’s head priest, who aimed to create a place of joyful reverence. 🚊Getting There: Accessible via bus or a short taxi ride from Arashiyama station. #traveljapan #japan #hiddengem #kyoto

Visiting the Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple was an interesting and unique experience. Located in the western part of Kyoto, Japan, this temple features a pond with large stone Buddha statues. These small statues are neatly and literally carved, each with a unique expression on its face. The statues are widely spread throughout the temple and surrounding gardens, creating an atmosphere of tranquility and meditation. The visit was an opportunity to enjoy peace, reflect on the beauty of Buddhist art, and the depth of spiritual teachings. Overall, visiting the Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple was a wonderful and special experience during my trip to Kyoto.

| It's like stepping into Spirited Away. I'm amazed by this little temple! 1200 uniquely shaped Arhat statues, Each one is lifelike The whole temple exudes a quiet beauty and an unspoken strength Every patch of moss is the sediment of time Temple enthusiasts really love it❤️ 📍Atago Nenbutsu-ji Temple, Kyoto Address: 〒616-8439 Kyoto Prefecture, Kyoto City, Ukyo Ward, Sagatoriimoto Fukatani-cho 2-5 Atago Nenbutsu-ji Temple

This is definitely the cutest temple I’ve visited in Kyoto! Every little moss monk is acting cute~ And the 1,200 Arhats are all emoticons~ I believe no one can object to it being the cutest temple in Japan❤️ And there are not many tourists in the whole temple, so it is great to visit~ This temple is not far from Arashiyama, you can arrange a tour together ~ Tour route: Atago Nenbutsuji Temple ➡️ Jiouji Temple (although it is small, it is still worth a visit) ➡️ Tsunekokoji Temple ➡️ Arashiyama 📍Atago-Nenbutsuji Temple: 2-5 Saga Torii Honfukaya-cho, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto City 1️⃣Take the Kyoto bus No. 62, 72, 92, or 94 in the direction of Kiyotaki and get off at [Atagoji-mae] station 2️⃣Take a taxi from the north exit of J Saga Arashiyama Station, about JP1000

🍁Tourists in Kyoto's Arashiyama are always in an endless stream, but few people go north from Arashiyama to visit deeper temples. Here hides a quiet and healing scenery, which is a place where you can find peace in the bustling Arashiyama. The most adorable temple recognized by the Japanese, 🍁Kyoto's 【Atago Nenbutsu-ji Temple】 🌟There are 1200 Arhats in the temple, some with their hands on their cheeks, some praying with their hands together, some wearing hats, some wearing pearl necklaces, and even one standing upside down, full of cuteness. 😢A bit indifferent, a bit joyful, a bit sad, it seems to hide the "various states of life in Kyoto" here. 🌟The name of a different sculptor is engraved behind each Arhat, which is contributed by many amateur sculptors under the guidance of a famous Japanese sculptor🐺. 📍Transportation 👉Address: 2-5 Sagatoriimoto Fukatani-cho, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto City 👉Business hours: 8:00〜16:30 👉Ticket: JP300/adult ⚠Free for elementary/middle school students 1⃣Kyoto Bus🚌Direction of Kiyotaki🧭 62 | 72 | 92 | 94 Get off at 【Atagoji-mae】 2⃣ Take a taxi🚖 at JR Saga-Arashiyama Station North Exit JP1000↔about five minutes 3⃣ Walk for about 1 hour at JR Saga-Arashiyama Station 📍The easiest downhill route for Arashiyama sightseeing 👉Atago Nenbutsu-ji Temple → Saganocho Preservation Area → Bamboo Forest → Togetsukyo Bridge → Arashiyama

#japantrip #kyoto #solotrip #thingstodo #travel #japan #temple Nestled in the hills of Arashiyama, Kyoto, Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple is a hidden treasure with over 1,200 quirky stone statues of rakan (Buddha’s disciples). Each sculpture is unique, showcasing expressions ranging from serene to downright humorous. Walking among these moss-covered carvings felt like being surrounded by a crowd of ancient storytellers. Practical tip: It’s a bit of a hike from central Arashiyama, but the journey is worth it. The peaceful atmosphere and whimsical artistry make this temple a must-visit for those seeking an offbeat and memorable experience in Kyoto.

Escape the crowds and avoid 95% of tourists. Tokai Nature Trail Takao-Kiyotaki-Arashiyama section. You can start hiking after visiting the three temples in Takao. The trail is relatively easy, with some sections having gravel and small streams. It's best to go on a sunny day, and if it rains, wait a day before hiking. I chose to visit Jingo-ji Temple in the morning and then started hiking to Arashiyama. I only encountered a Japanese couple hiking in the opposite direction. The hike takes about 3-4 hours. In the Arashiyama section, you can visit Atago Nenbutsu-ji Temple and Jojakko-ji Temple along the way. There are no shops along the trail, so it's best to bring your own rice balls and drinks. The photos were taken in early December last year.

Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple in Kyoto is a place of serene beauty. The temple, steeped in deep history and tradition, welcomes visitors with its peaceful and tranquil atmosphere. The colorful Buddha statues and meticulously maintained gardens are particularly impressive, offering a full experience of traditional Japanese beauty. The temple's interior is very well-organized, with carefully managed pagodas and traditional architectural styles adding to its wonder. Walking along the quiet paths, one can naturally feel the stress of daily life being healed. It is a place where one can deeply engage with Japan's unique culture and history, making it a must-visit during a trip to Kyoto.

#JapanTravel Visiting Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple was a very unique and inspiring experience, and left an unforgettable memory in my heart. When I entered the temple, I was amazed and amazed. The old temple blends uniquely with the surrounding nature, creating a magical atmosphere. Amazing Buddhist statues filled the temple, each with their own unique details. I enjoyed wandering among the brightly colored, interactive, and ornate statues. The gardens around the temple were full. With trees and flowers, it gave the place a quiet and calming atmosphere.

⭐️⭐️⭐️ This temple is situated around the end of the train of the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest but it's definitely worth it. The trek was around half an hour depending on whether you stop at other temples and the entrance fee was fairly cheap.