Jojakkoji Temple (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Jojakkoji Temple?
The quiet hillside paths, pagoda lookout, and early opening hours let a solo traveler photograph nature and meditate freely. Moderate stair climbs require basic fitness but no other constraints.
Positives:
- Morning Solitude: Gates open at 9 AM. Early visitors enjoy nearly empty grounds and soft mist.
- Panoramic Views: The pagoda platform offers one of the clearest views of Kyoto city.
Challenges:
- Steep Uneven Steps: Stone steps and narrow paths are slippery when wet; use careful footing.
- Basic Facilities: Restrooms are standard and may lack changing tables or seating areas.
What is so special about Jojakkoji Temple for solo trip?
- Quiet early entry for solo reflection
- Climb to pagoda for wide city views
- Explore hidden moss garden paths
- Hike the forested Mt. Ogura loop
- Collect the special autumn-leaf goshuin
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Enough time to explore the main hall, climb to the pagoda view, hike the trail, and collect a goshuin stamp
Solo-Friendly Activities in Jojakkoji Temple
Tahōtō Pagoda View:
Climb the stone steps behind the main hall for a wide view over Kyoto and Mt. Hiei on clear days.
Tip: Arrive at opening to catch soft morning light before crowds
Secret Moss Garden:
Search the hidden moss beds behind the main hall for intimate nature shots.
Tip: Wear non-slip shoes; the ground stays damp and can be slippery
Maple Tunnel under Niō-mon Gate:
Walk the moss-lined steps framed by maples beneath the thatched gate.
Tip: In autumn, linger here at sunrise for red canopy reflections
Mt. Ogura Hiking Loop:
Follow the 30–45 minute trail from the temple through forested slopes.
Tip: Bring water and wear sturdy shoes; the path is unpaved and rocky
Goshuin Stamp Collection:
Get the temple’s special autumn-leaf design in your goshuin-chō.
Tip: Purchase your book in advance at larger temples to avoid queues
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Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult admission | JPY 500 |
| Goshuin stamp | JPY 300 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 800 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
When is the best time to visit Jojakkoji Temple?
Visit mid-November for peak maple colors. In early spring, moss is brightest after winter rains.
How to Maximize Your Visit to Jojakkoji Temple
- Arrive at Opening: Beat the crowds and capture photos in soft morning light.
- Combine with Philosopher’s Path: Walk 10 minutes downhill after visiting to continue your solo exploration.
- Prebuy Goshuin-chō: Get your stamp book before arrival to save time at the counter.
Map of Jojakkoji Temple
Address: 3 Sagaogurayama Ogurachō, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8397, Japan
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Reviews of Jojakkoji Temple
Kellan Fabjance
Beautiful complex, and so much less crowded than the bamboo forest. Go here after you get annoyed with the hordes. Lots of stairs, climb all the way to the top for a nice view of Kyoto.
Andrew Meador
A quiet, serene temple with a nice hike to the top of the hill. There are many shrines on site here, and at the top is an amazing view of Kyoto!
Ren
Beautiful gardens off the beaten track. If you want to find some zen in a quieter area visit this temple. Only 500 yen per adult. The bamboo forest was ridiculously packed with tourists at 11am as we were leaving.
me now
a beautiful, somewhat hidden temple. if you climb up a short hike, you have a beautiful view over kyoto. the temple grounds are very well maintained bur still kept true to their age. absolutely worth a visit
Sviet Slav
If you ever find yourself thinking if the extra ¥500 admission fee is worth it, then the Jojakko-Ji temple is definitely a location where you can be assured that that money will be well spent. The temple is absolutely breathtaking and has it all. The short hike across the temple grounds will take you all the way up the gorgeous, flower surrounded platform with a view of Kyoto, while getting there ...
About Jojakkoji 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 75-861-0435See available options
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