Sanjūsangendō Temple (couple trip)
Sanjūsangendō Temple is 81% Couple-Friendly
What are the highlights at Sanjūsangendō Temple (couple trip)?
- Walk the 120 m hall side-by-side and view 1,001 Kannon statues
- Use the free English guide to learn statue names and features
- Photograph the wooden façade and veranda in morning light
- Experience a centuries-old archery contest if visiting in January
How Couple-Friendly is Sanjūsangendō Temple?
A pair can wander the 120-metre wooden hall together, share insights on the guardian deities, and attend the archery event, but silence rules and no interior photos reduce date-like chatter.
Considerations for visiting Sanjūsangendō Temple (couple trip)
Positives:
- National Treasure Collection: The hall houses hundreds of statues designated as Japanese National Treasures.
- Quiet Atmosphere: Early mornings bring calm and a moment for peaceful reflection together.
Challenges:
- No Photography Inside: Cameras are prohibited in the main hall—plan to shoot only the exterior.
- Remove Your Shoes: You must leave shoes at the entrance; wear clean socks to avoid slipping on the wooden floor.
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: This lets you view the statues at a relaxed pace and explore the hall without rushing.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Sanjūsangendō Temple
Explore the main hall and its 1,001 Kannon statues:
Enter the 120 m long wooden hall to see the central seated Kannon flanked by life-size, gold-leaf statues.
Tip: Pick up a free English pamphlet at the ticket counter to identify each guardian deity.
Photograph the temple’s façade and veranda:
Step outside to capture the hall’s austere exterior and long veranda framed by the courtyard.
Tip: Use early morning light for softer shadows and fewer visitors in your shots.
Join a guided tour:
Ask at the ticket booth about year-round guided tours for deeper insight into the temple’s history.
Tip: Inquire about optional photo-book purchases when the tour ends.
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Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Entrance fee for two adults | JPY 1,200 |
| Guided tour (optional) | JPY 0 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 1,200 |
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 Sanjūsangendō Temple?
Visit on the second Sunday of January to watch the Tōshiya archery contest from the west veranda at no extra cost.
How to Maximize Your Visit to Sanjūsangendō Temple
- Arrive at Opening: Get there by 8 AM to beat the crowds and enjoy the morning light.
- Combine with Nearby Temples: Pair this visit with a stroll to nearby Kōdai-ji or walk down Ninenzaka for a full day in Higashiyama.
Map of Sanjūsangendō Temple
Address: 657 Sanjūsangendōmawari, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0941, Japan
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Reviews of Sanjūsangendō Temple
NIN Kongnav
Ticket is 600Y (4$) I've had a wonderful experience there. It's a great place to learn more about the Japanese culture and its history. The most significant building in this temple is obviously its long hall. Inside this hall, there are many statues of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas which equivalent to many Hindu deities. If you're a Buddhist or Hindu, you may find this more interesting. However, you'...
KK Brown
This was an amazing sight to behold. Fascinating and so interesting to learn about the history of this temple. Can't take any photographs of the statues inside which was a shame but understandable. Lovely gardens. Really enjoyed this. Wasn't too busy either really.
Elaine Burbank
Simply unbelievable Buddhist temple. We spent about an hour exploring the temple and gardens. We went close to when it opened in the morning at 8:30 am and there weren’t many crowds. No pictures allowed inside the temple but there were over 1,000 carved wooden warriors guarding the big Buddha in the middle of the temple. The temple itself was gorgeous with the wooden interior. Many temples/shrines...
pat barroero
Very nice town and temple - worth your while! There's a huge selection of statues with the mini statues in the back - never seen anything like it in Japan. Strictly no pictures inside the temple - I'm posting the one in the brochure to give you an idea. All temples are always cash only. The gardens are nice and so is the town. There's also the national museum to visit if you have time
MG R
Simply incredible! Worth the trip to Japan for it only. 1000 quiet statues looking at you, plus the gods following your eyes with theirs, made from crystal. No other words can describe the feelings there. No photos are allowed inside and taking off shoes is compulsory.
About Sanjūsangendō 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 75-561-0467See available options
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