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

The Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple in Kyoto is an off the beaten track temple located in Arashiyama, Kyoto. More than a thousand stone rakan statues populate the temple ground at the Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple. Being moss-covered, the stone statues create an ambience that is faintly eerie, but the unique facial expressions on the statues convey a quirky sense of comical cheerfulness at once. The very original of the Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple was established near the Gion District in the Higashiyama area by the order of Emperor Shotoku in 766 A.D. That temple was destroyed by the flood of the Kamogawa River during the early Heian period. Thus began the seemingly “bad luck” that struck this temple throughout its history. By the 20th century, the temple has come to stand for resilience. In those long years past, the temple fell victim to fires and neglect. There were only three structures still standing in the temple, namely the main hall, the Jizo Hall, and the temple gate. In 1922, there was effort to move these structures to the current site in Arashiyama, and the temple started anew. Yet again, in the 1950s, a typhoon damaged the temple. Finally, in 1981, the temple underwent a major restoration led by Kocho Nishimura. He was a craftsman for Buddhist statues before becoming a monk himself. The restoration effort took a good ten years, during which time structures were taken apart, rebuilt, renovated and restored. This was also the time needed for the temple to offer sculpting pilgrimage for the followers. The army of 1,200 rakan statuettes was the work of many followers over this decade of time in the 1980s. Kocho Nishimura’s innovative initiative to combine art and religion was very much reflective of his own journey of faith. Rakans are the followers of Buddha. The statuettes in the temple were created by the common people. In this creative process, the followers of Buddha essentially invested in their artwork some of their own humanity. Surely, there were many statuettes wearing somber expressions, but some were reading, some were marveling, and some were laughing as well. In the back of these statuettes the sculptor carved his or her own names. #kyototrip #otaginenbutsutemple #rakanstatues #templetour #buddhism #buddhisttemple #arashiyama #japan #trip

#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

Unforgettable sights 🔶: Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple 📍: 2-5 Saga Torimoto Fukatani-cho, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto 🎫: JPY 400 . This is probably the cutest temple in all of Kyoto. It's filled with adorable little Rakan statues, each with a unique expression and pose, just like a collection of cute emojis! . 🔶: About · Transportation Navigate to "Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple." You can take the JR Line to Saga-Arashiyama Station, then transfer to Kyoto Bus 🚌 Route 92 and get off at Atagoji-mae. . 📷: About · Photography 1⃣️: The temple is relatively niche, so there are fewer people, and it's great for photos in all seasons. In spring and summer, the little Rakans are covered in moss. In autumn, the temple has large maple trees 🍁, and in winter, you can capture the Rakans covered in snow❄️! 2️⃣: For the return trip, walking is recommended, as the downhill road is an ancient path, and both sides are lined with traditional Japanese buildings! Unforgettable sights

#japantrip #kyoto #travel #thingstodo #japan #summer #temple Tucked away in the quiet hills of Arashiyama, Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple is a true hidden gem of Kyoto. What makes this temple special? 1,200 moss-covered stone statues, each with unique, whimsical expressions—some smiling, others laughing, and even a few holding cameras or making playful gestures! Walking among these charming Rakan statues, you’ll feel a serene yet lighthearted atmosphere that contrasts with Kyoto’s more traditional temples. It’s a peaceful retreat from the crowds, perfect for those who appreciate history with a touch of character. A short bus or taxi ride from central Arashiyama, this off-the-beaten-path treasure is worth the journey.

#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.

🎈Atago Nenbutsu-ji Temple, located in Daigokashihara-cho, Fushimi-ku, Kyoto, is a place full of history and Zen. 🕙Open from 8:00 to 16:30 every day, adult tickets are only 300 yen, and elementary and middle school students are free🆓. When you step into the temple, you feel as if you are instantly away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The quaint buildings and peaceful atmosphere can calm one's heart. Here, you can stroll along the paths in the temple, appreciate the surrounding natural scenery, and feel the traces left by time. The Buddha statues in the temple are so solemn and majestic that people can't help but feel awe. Praying devoutly here seems to put all worries aside temporarily. Atago Nenbutsu-ji Temple has a unique flavor in summer. The breeze brings coolness, which makes people's irritable mood dissipate. If you are looking for a place where you can find solace for your soul, then Atago Nenbutsu-ji Temple is definitely a good choice. 💕 #Atago Nenbutsuji Temple #Kyoto Ancient Temple #Zen Journey #Peace of Mind #Kyoto Travel #Kyoto Attractions

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.

#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.