Eikandō Temple (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Eikandō Temple?
What makes it 71% Kids-Friendly: Children can watch koi, test the water harp and explore corridors, yet long quiet zones, many steps and no dedicated play or rest areas mean parents must supervise closely.
Positives:
- Interactive spots: Hands-on water harp and koi feeding keep kids engaged.
- Barrier-free entry: Ramps and lift at main gate help parents with strollers.
Challenges:
- Narrow corridors: Wooden walkways and steps limit stroller access—bring a carrier.
- Quiet rules: Temple requires low voices—prep kids to whisper in halls.
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 with kids?
- Interactive Sui-kin-kutsu water harp
- Colorful koi feeding at Hojo Pond
- Family climb to a panoramic pagoda
- Scavenger-hunt along wooden corridors
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Long enough to explore gardens, interactive spots, and take breaks for young children without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Eikandō Temple
Play the Sui-kin-kutsu Water Harp:
Pour water gently into the buried pot to hear soft musical tones.
Tip: Let each child try different pours and listen as a family game.
Watch and Feed Koi at Hojo Pond:
Spot large, colorful koi near the pond’s edge.
Tip: Bring 200 yen in coins for koi feed and watch kids guess patterns.
Climb to Tahōtō Pagoda:
Climb about 100 covered steps for a family view over Kyoto.
Tip: Hold hands and take breaks—older kids enjoy spotting landmarks below.
Explore Corridors and Mini Gardens:
Wander wooden walkways linking small shrines and mossy spots.
Tip: Turn exploration into a scavenger hunt: find red maple leaves or stone lanterns.
When is the best time to visit Eikandō Temple (Kyoto, Japan)?
Visit mid-November to early December for evening illuminated maples (17:30–21:00). Spring brings cherry blooms along the nearby Philosopher’s Path.
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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 Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult admission (2 × 600 yen) | JPY 1,200 |
| Child admission (age 6–12) | JPY 400 |
| Koi fish feed | JPY 200 |
| Snacks & drinks | JPY 400 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 2,200 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Eikandō Temple
- Arrive at opening: Get in by 9:00 to avoid crowds and secure pond-side benches.
- Combine nearby sights: After Eikandō, walk the Philosopher’s Path to stretch little legs.
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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