Rurikō-in Temple (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Rurikō-in Temple?
What makes it 86% Couple-Friendly: Moss gardens, mirror-like floors, and shared matcha provide romantic scenery and quiet moments for two; occasional crowd control lines and steps are minor inconveniences.
Positives:
- Free cultural activities: Sutra copying and garden entry are included with admission.
- Intimate setting: Limited visitors ensure a peaceful experience.
Challenges:
- Narrow stairs: The second-floor shoin has steep, uneven steps.
- Cash only: The temple accepts only cash for admission and tea.
- Limited seating: Tearoom seats fill quickly at peak times.
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?
- Explore three distinct gardens hand in hand.
- Experience the mirror-like leaf reflections from the shoin.
- Enjoy complimentary sutra copying together.
- Share matcha tea and sweets in a historic tearoom.
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Enough time to explore three gardens, copy sutras, and enjoy tea together.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Rurikō-in Temple
Stroll Sanrōji Garden:
Walk hand-in-hand under maple trees along moss-covered paths.
Tip: Start at the garden entrance to catch morning light filtering through leaves.
Enjoy the mirror view:
Sit in the second-floor shoin to see colorful leaves reflect on the polished floor.
Tip: Arrive before 11 am when the light angle best highlights reflections.
Copy sutras together:
Share a quiet moment writing Buddhist sutras side by side on provided paper.
Tip: Use the calming act to pause and chat about your favorite lines.
Share matcha with wagashi:
Sip matcha tea paired with Japanese sweets in the ground-floor tearoom.
Tip: Order two tea-and-sweet sets (¥1,000 each) and swap wagashi to try more flavors.
When is the best time to visit Rurikō-in Temple (Kyoto, Japan)?
Visit mid-November for peak red, yellow, and pink autumn leaves. In April, watch fresh green maples glow at sunrise.
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Reviews of Rurikō-in Temple (Kyoto)
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!
Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Admission (2 adults) | JPY 4,000 |
| Matcha tea sets (2) | 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.
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 Rurikō-in Temple
- Arrive early on weekdays: Visit before 10 am to avoid crowds and secure seating.
- Wear comfortable shoes: Paths include gravel and stone; avoid heels.
- Check seasonal hours: Hours change for fall viewing; confirm before your trip.
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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