Eikandō Temple (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Eikandō Temple?
What makes it 89% Couple-Friendly: Couples enjoy hand-in-hand walks amid maples, a quiet pond garden and seasonal night illumination that feels romantic; moderate crowds and a few staircases are the only drawbacks.
Positives:
- Quiet Corners: Hidden gardens off the main circuit offer intimate spots for couples to pause.
- Art and Architecture: Wooden corridors and carved eaves provide photogenic backdrops at every turn.
Challenges:
- Narrow Steps: Wooden staircases up to the pagoda can feel steep; wear stable shoes.
- Limited English Signage: Most labels are in Japanese; download a map or guide app beforehand.
What is Eikandō Temple?
- Zenrin-ji Temple (Eikandō) in Kyoto’s Higashiyama district, founded in 853 as a Shingon-sect meditation hall
- Home to the Mikaeri-Amida statue, a rare Kamakura-period Buddha turning to gaze over its shoulder and designated a national treasure
- Encompassing a Tahōtō pagoda, classical wooden corridors and Hojo pond gardens, it preserves ancient portraits, sutras and other nationally designated cultural properties
What is so special about Eikandō Temple for couple trip?
- Stroll a mirror-like pond under maples
- Climb Tahōtō Pagoda for a private city view
- See the rare Mikaeri-Amida turning head Buddha
- Extend your day with the Philosopher’s Path
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Gives time for a relaxed stroll, pagoda climb, and tea break without rushing.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Eikandō Temple
Hojo Pond Garden Stroll:
Walk the moss-lined paths around the reflective pond framed by maple trees.
Tip: Start here to enjoy the calm before interior halls open at 9 AM.
Tahōtō Pagoda Climb:
Climb 100 steps along covered walkways to view Kyoto rooftops and hillside maples.
Tip: Visit mid-morning for softer light and fewer crowds on the viewing deck.
Mikaeri-Amida Statue:
Admire the rare Amida Buddha turning its head to the left in Amida Hall.
Tip: Listen to the recorded monk’s chant at the hall entrance for deeper context.
Philosopher’s Path Extension:
Continue your walk to Ginkaku-ji along the cherry- and maple-lined canal path.
Tip: Combine this free stroll before or after your temple visit to extend your day.
When is the best time to visit Eikandō Temple (Kyoto, Japan)?
Late October to early December: arrive at dusk for the 17:30–21:00 maple illumination ticketed separately.
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Reviews of Eikandō Temple (Kyoto)
Ray G
Here is a very representative temple in Kyoto. Its architectural style is unique, but unfortunately, there are many visitors, making it difficult to quietly and thoroughly appreciate every detail. Many people are taking photos, and some even climb over the barriers to strike strange poses for the photographers, which disrupts the tranquility that the temple should have. I hope the temple can imple...
Nathan Powers
Big beautiful temple, slightly off the beaten path. Take your time here, and plan for plenty of stairs as it's built on a mountain side. Please follow the rules and be polite. This is a place of worship. No pictures or videos inside buildings. There is plenty of gorgeous places to record. Also if you go to the pagoda be prepped for a ton of stairs. And after the interior section, be sure to stro...
Matt Stichnoth
An amazing place and find! We were walking to another recommended temple in the area when we came across this beautiful place. We spent so much time here we didn't end up getting to our destination 😂. Wonderfully restored and kept buildings and garden
Shiela Jaye Sison
When they say Eikando is one of the best spots for autumn viewing, they were not kidding! IT IS ABSOLUTELY GOREGEOUS!! Came here 1st week of December. Maple trees are so dense, you'll see a glimpse from the gates. Once you enter, you'll be overwhelmed by how beautiful and colorful and magical it is to be under the canopy of momiji 😍 I little more expensive at ¥1,000, but I cherish the experience...
Melinda
A beautiful Buddhist temple located at the end of the Philosopher’s Path that prides themselves and being known for their fall foliage. A MUST visit if you’re in Kyoto during the maple leaves changing colors. We saw a rainbow of colors from greens to yellows to oranges to reds. Absolutely incredible. Sometimes it feels as though you are walking through tree tunnels as a canopy of rainbow maple le...
Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Admission (2 adults) | JPY 1,200 |
| Evening illumination (2 adults) | JPY 1,400 |
| Tea & snack at temple kiosk | JPY 600 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 3,200 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Eikandō Temple
- Early Entry: Arrive by 8:50 AM to avoid lines and enjoy the garden before crowds build.
- Ticket Machine: Buy combined admission and illumination tickets at the entrance vending machine to skip the line.
Map of Eikandō Temple
Address: 48 Eikandōchō, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8445, Japan
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About Eikandō Temple
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+81 75-761-000710 BEST nearby Activities
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