Rurikō-in Temple is 81% Solo-Friendly
What are the highlights at Rurikō-in Temple (solo trip)?
- Hand-copy sutras to find calm
- Photograph moss and maples from shoin
- Wander three distinct gardens at your pace
- Savor solo matcha with a garden view
- Beat crowds by arriving at opening
How Solo-Friendly is Rurikō-in Temple?
The calm gardens, reflection hall, and sutra copying let a solo visitor photograph or meditate at their own pace; paths are safe, but limited seating and crowd queues require patience.
Considerations for visiting Rurikō-in Temple (solo trip)
Positives:
- Quiet atmosphere: Small visitor numbers let you enjoy the temple in silence
- Intimate scale: Compact grounds make it easy to see all highlights alone
Challenges:
- Uneven paths: Gravel and stone walkways can be slippery—wear good shoes
- Limited seating: Tearoom seats fill quickly; expect to wait or stand
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Solo travelers can explore all three gardens and the sutra-copying space without rushing
Solo-Friendly Activities in Rurikō-in Temple
Copy sutras in the second-floor space:
Use the provided paper and pen to hand-copy Buddhist sutras.
Tip: Go alone and focus on each character to clear your mind
Photograph the Lapis Lazuli Garden:
Shoot the bright moss and stream from the first-floor shoin.
Tip: Use a small tripod or steady your camera on the veranda railing for sharp images
Explore all three gardens:
Visit Sanrōji, Lapis Lazuli, and Garyū gardens at your own pace.
Tip: Pause on garden paths for sketching or quiet reflection
Sip matcha tea in the tearoom:
Order a single cup of matcha to enjoy with garden views.
Tip: Sit by the window to watch light shift on the maples
Climb the observation stairs:
Stand above the courtyard to see the layered forest colors.
Tip: Arrive early for soft morning light on red, yellow, and pink leaves
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Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Admission | JPY 2,000 |
| Round-trip bus fare from central Kyoto | JPY 460 |
| Matcha tea | JPY 800 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 3,260 |
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 Rurikō-in Temple?
Mid-November brings peak three-color maple leaves. Visit at opening time to catch the sunrise glow. In spring, look for fresh green moss beneath budding maples.
How to Maximize Your Visit to Rurikō-in Temple
- Arrive early: Get there 15 minutes before opening to explore gardens alone
- Travel light: Carry only camera and water; lockers aren’t available
Map of Rurikō-in Temple
Address: 55 Kamitakano Higashiyama, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-0067, Japan
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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!
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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