A complete guide to the Eikando (Zenrin-ji) temple in Kyoto
The Reclining Dragon Staircase. Image Copyright: Ollie Ronin.
Overview
Eikando Temple, also known as Zenrin-ji, is a 1200-year-old temple located just south of the philosopher's path. During November it becomes one of the most popular temples in Kyoto due to its stunning autumn leaves, complimented by its spectacular garden and beautiful architectural design. It's also famous for its autumn illumination events. The temple can become very busy during this time, typically from mid-November to early December, but it's still well worth the visit despite the crowds.
The temple grounds are quite expansive, with many buildings and impressive features such as the two-story Tahoto Pagoda, the reflective Hojo Pond, and the Reclining Dragon (Garyuro) Staircase. A couple of sections, such as the Garyuro Staircase, are closed during the autumn period to prevent overcrowding. However, the temple grounds are stunning throughout the year, and it's a much more peaceful experience outside of the autumn period, so I highly recommend a visit regardless of the autumn leaves.
Table of Contents
Location & Access
A rainy day in early November. Image Copyright: Ollie Ronin.
Eikando is located just a 5-minute walk south of the Philosopher's Path and a 5-minute walk north of Nanzenji Temple. To get there from Downtown Kyoto or Gion you would need to either ride a bike, catch a bus/taxi, or catch a train to Keage Station. It's quite a nice walk from Keage Station and only takes 15 minutes, passing by Nanzenji Temple.
🕗 Opening Hours
9am - 4pm.
🍁 Autumn Leaf Illuminations
Mid-November to Mid-December: 5:30pm - 8:30pm.
📍 Location
Between the Philosopher's Path & Nanzenji Temple, Kyoto. (Google Maps)
💴 Entry Price
Normal Period: ¥600 per person
Autumn Illumination: ¥700 per person
Seasons
Image Copyright: Ollie Ronin.
🌸 Cherry Blossoms
(Eikando is not ideal for cherry blossoms)
🍁 Autumn Leaves
Mid-November to early December
☀️ Summer
June - August.
Average temp. 32°C
A beautiful option for rainy summer days due to the architecture and garden design.
❄️ Winter
Snowfall: 1-3 times per year.
Interesting Facts & History
A traditional performance during the autumn illumination. Image Copyright: Ollie Ronin.
Originally the residence of a noble during the Heian Period (794-1185), the property was purchased by a Buddhist monk in 853 who turned it into a temple.
Nearly 1200 years old, with the current buildings restored and reconstructed in 1912.
The original name, Zenrin-ji, translates to "Temple of the Forest of Zen".
In the 11th century, a priest named Eikan took over the temple, he was so popular that the temple was renamed Eikando which translates to "Eikan Hall"
Nearby Attractions
The Sanmon gate of the Nanzen-ji temple grounds. Image Source: Wikipedia CC.
Eikando is located in a beautiful area for sightseeing, right in between the Philosopher's Path and the Nanzenji temple grounds. Nanzenji and its sub-temples are also popular destinations for the autumn leaves, so most people combine these two areas when they come to visit. You could allocate half a day to this combination, just take note of which temples close at 4pm.
If you like walking, then it's worth meandering along the Philosophers Path which is connected to the beautiful Ginkaku-ji Temple (The Silver Pavilion). This temple is also stunning during autumn, featuring a lovely Zen garden and a nice viewpoint over northern Kyoto.
