Rurikō-in Temple (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Rurikō-in Temple?
What makes it 90% Couple-Friendly: Couples enjoy romantic maple reflections, shared matcha, and hand-in-hand walks through three gardens; limited tearoom seats and heavy autumn crowds are the only small drawbacks.
Positives:
- Quiet ambience: Fewer tourists than central temples allow intimate moments together.
- All-inclusive access: Admission covers all three gardens, shoin views, and sutra copying.
Challenges:
- Limited seating in tea room: Only a few seats available; you may wait if you go midday.
- Steep, uneven paths: Gravel paths and narrow steps require sturdy shoes and care.
What is Rurikō-in Temple?
- A Buddhist temple in northeast Kyoto featuring moss-laden grounds, carp-filled ponds, and a vibrant canopy of maple trees
- A complex of three distinct Zen gardens—moss-and-maple, lapis-lazuli moss, and rock-and-pond—meticulously designed to showcase seasonal hues
- A historic shoin-style hall whose polished wooden floors and extended veranda frame the interplay of light and foliage with elegant simplicity
What is so special about Rurikō-in Temple for couple trip?
- Three distinct gardens with moss, maples, and carp ponds
- Mirror-like shoin reflections ideal in spring or autumn
- Complementary sutra copying for a shared calming ritual
- Traditional matcha and wagashi in a historic tea room
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Couples can explore the main gardens and tea room at a relaxed pace within 1-2 hours.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Rurikō-in Temple
Stroll Sanrōji Garden:
Walk hand-in-hand through moss-covered paths and under maple trees.
Tip: Arrive early to enjoy soft light on the carp ponds before crowds.
View mirror reflections in the second-floor shoin:
Sit side by side as spring blooms or autumn leaves reflect on the polished floor.
Tip: Choose a bench near the window for the best symmetrical reflections.
Copy sutras together:
Share a wooden desk to write sacred characters with provided pen and paper.
Tip: Use this calm activity to bond and talk quietly between strokes.
Enjoy matcha tea with wagashi:
Relax in the tearoom with traditional tea and sweets (¥1,000 per person).
Tip: Order right when you enter to secure limited seating.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Rurikō-in Temple
- Time your arrival: Visit 30 minutes before opening to enjoy soft morning light in the gardens.
- Secure tea seating: Request your tea set as soon as you pay admission to save your spot.
Reviews of Rurikō-in Temple
Ronetteski Estante
Visited October 16, 2024 (Wednesday). There were lots of tourists but not so crowded as compared to peak season. I had a peaceful time here. Stayed for more than an hour.
Kenny Yap
Crowded? Overpriced? Visited on 4th December and there was few people, perhaps because the reservation period (until 2 Dec) was over. I strolled over from Eikando temple, a near 45minutes walk. I arrived around 4pm, and there was no queue to enter. I proceeded to pay 2000¥ and enter the place. It’s a short flight of steps up and then you enter the compound where you have to take your shoes off a...
Kevin T
Yes the fall colours are stunning but very expensive for admission (¥2000). Also very crowded and in a very tight space. I visited and walked through 5 temples close by and they were all very quiet and equally incredible. I would skip this particular one
Clarice Chan
Booked the timed entry ticket (required in Nov during peak viewing season), even so, had to wait 10-15 mins to enter. It was really crowded but if you're patient, can definitely take photos of the reflection of the leaves on the lacquered table. The reflection of the leaves though - looks better on camera than in person. All other photos of the leaves looked better in person though. Look out for t...
nuinsrnui
A Buddhist temple in the forest. Very calm and zen feeling. They will guide you to a small walking tour inside the temple. There is also a paper for you to write Japanese calligraphy with the Buddhist mantra which you can write your name, address and your wish there. After that, place the paper faced down at the down stair in front of the Buddha statue. Worth a visit!
When is the best time to visit Rurikō-in Temple (Kyoto, Japan)?
Visit mid-November for peak maple colors. In late March to early April, enjoy cherry blossoms over the moss.
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Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Admission (2 adults) | JPY 4,000 |
| Matcha tea set (2 persons) | JPY 2,000 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 6,000 |
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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Map of Rurikō-in Temple
Address: 55 Kamitakano Higashiyama, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-0067, Japan
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About Rurikō-in 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.
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