Sanjūsangendō Temple (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Sanjūsangendō Temple?
What makes it 63% Baby-Friendly: Babies may enter and a diaper table and ramps exist, but you must leave the stroller at the door, there is no private nursing room, and any crying quickly disturbs the prayerful space.
Positives:
- Stroller-Friendly Grounds: Smooth pathways lead to the hall entrance. Free parking is available nearby.
- Quick, Focused Visit: You can cover main highlights in about one hour before baby becomes restless.
Challenges:
- Narrow Indoor Aisles: Carry your baby in a carrier to move comfortably between statue rows.
- No Private Nursing Room: There’s no dedicated space for feeding. Find a quiet corner or use a stroller.
What is Sanjūsangendō Temple?
- A Buddhist temple featuring a 120-meter-long wooden main hall constructed in 1164, ranking among the longest in Japan
- Home to 1,001 life-size wooden statues of the Thousand-Armed Kannon goddess, each uniquely crafted and collectively recognized as National Treasures
- Exemplifies Heian-period religious architecture and conserves an extensive array of Buddhist sculptures and cultural artifacts
What is so special about Sanjūsangendō Temple for with baby?
- Walk the 120 m hall to view 1,001 golden Kannon statues.
- Use the free English guide to learn statue names.
- Grounds and parking are stroller-friendly up to the hall entrance.
- Switch to a baby carrier for narrow indoor spaces.
- Attend the January archery festival for a unique family spectacle.
Recommended visit duration: 1–2 hours
Why 1–2 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: Allows time to view the main hall, rest breaks, and take photos with a baby slowdown.
Baby-Friendly Activities in Sanjūsangendō Temple
Spot 1,001 Kannon Statues:
Walk along the hall’s interior to see the seated central Kannon and 1,000 life-size figures.
Tip: Use the stroller-friendly entrance. Switch to a baby carrier inside for narrow aisles.
Photo at the Wooden Veranda:
Step onto the long veranda to capture the temple’s wooden facade.
Tip: Fold or park your stroller at the entrance. Carry your baby for unobstructed shots.
Pick up English Illustrated Guide:
Collect a free English pamphlet at the counter.
Tip: Use it to point out guardian deities and keep your baby visually engaged.
Experience Tōshiya Archery:
Watch archers shoot down the veranda on the second Sunday of January.
Tip: Arrive 30 minutes early to secure a railing spot for your stroller.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Sanjūsangendō Temple
- Visit at Opening: Arrive at 9 AM to avoid crowds and enjoy a calm atmosphere with your baby.
- Light Carry-On Bag: Bring only essentials to navigate narrow entrance paths more easily.
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.
When is the best time to visit Sanjūsangendō Temple (Kyoto, Japan)?
In January, attend the free Tōshiya archery festival. In rainy months, bring non-slip socks for the smooth wood floor.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Admission for 2 adults | JPY 1,200 |
| Admission for baby | JPY 0 |
| English guide pamphlet | 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.
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Map of Sanjūsangendō Temple
Address: 657 Sanjūsangendōmawari, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0941, Japan
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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
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