Shōrenin Temple (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Shōrenin Temple?
What makes it 61% Baby-Friendly: Stroller-friendly paths and fold-down diaper tables exist, but you must park or fold the stroller before entering halls and there is no private nursing room or rental gear.
![Shorenin temple The royal temple in Kyoto [Deep Japan] 青蓮院](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/33bS2oTcjtI/hqdefault.jpg)
Positives:
- Scenic Rest Areas: Veranda benches and garden benches offer shaded seating for feeding or napping.
- Easy Grounds Access: Most paths are paved and flat, making stroller roll and baby carrier use simple.
Challenges:
- Limited Nursing Privacy: No private room; use garden benches or prayer hall seating for breastfeeding.
- Stroller Restrictions Indoors: Must fold stroller before entering tatami halls and carry baby inside.
What is Shōrenin Temple?
- A Tendai Buddhist monzeki temple in Kyoto’s Higashiyama district, founded in the early Heian period and traditionally served by imperial princes
- Gardens that blend Muromachi- and Edo-period design, featuring a Soami-designed pond-and-spring layout, Kirishima Garden by tea master Kobori Enshū, bamboo groves and ancient camphor trees
- A complex of shinden-style structures, including the Kachō-den guest hall and Hōjō lecture hall, both designated Important Cultural Properties of Japan
What is so special about Shōrenin Temple for with baby?
- Relax on the veranda while baby naps.
- Stroll stroller-friendly paths past pond, bridge and camphor trees.
- Use free changing tables near the ticket gate.
- Enjoy spring blossoms or autumn leaves in a calm setting.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: Allows time for a leisurely garden stroll, veranda rest and diaper breaks without rushing.
Baby-Friendly Activities in Shōrenin Temple
Relax on Kachō-den Veranda:
Sit on the wooden veranda and view Ryushin Pond and moss garden while baby naps.
Tip: Bring a nursing cover and small pillow for your baby’s comfort.
Stroller-Friendly Garden Walk:
Follow flat stone paths around the main hall to see koi fish, Kororyo Bridge and ancient camphor trees.
Tip: Use a lightweight stroller and pause often to let baby stretch.
Use Diaper-Changing Tables:
Find fold-down changing tables inside restrooms near the ticket gate.
Tip: Carry a portable changing mat and extra diapers and wipes.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Shōrenin Temple
- Arrive at Opening: Visit at 9 AM to enjoy quieter gardens and smoother stroller navigation.
- Pack Baby Essentials: Bring a nursing cover, portable changing mat and lightweight stroller for ease.
Reviews of Shōrenin Temple
Karina O'Flynn
Tranquil, stunning and rich in culture. This temple was a brilliant introduction to Kyoto and was such a good vibe. Was so zen and quiet. A lovely way to spend a few hours. Take shoes off on entry as no walking on wooden floors with shoes on. Shoe lockers provided. Then shoes back on for walking around the garden. Very clean. Very clean toilets. Staff nice. Cash only ticket fee.
Lily Pillans
A must visit in Kyoto! A serene experience away from the crowds, we visited on a weekday afternoon in June and only a handful of visitors were there. You can enjoy learning about the history of the temple, the beautiful art and calligraphy as well as wandering around the gardens and a small bamboo forest. Cannot recommend enough!
Angie Ho
Shōren-in Temple was just a minute’s walk from our hotel, and it ended up being one of our favorite places in Kyoto. It’s got this quiet, peaceful atmosphere that really stays with you. The temple has a bit of history too — it used to be a residence for high-ranking monks and was even used by the imperial family at one point, which adds to the sense of calm and dignity around the place. The garde...
S
Beautifull temple with a lovely small garden at the front, with a much larger one within the shrine. Both were incredibly peaceful to just sit and listen to the sounds of nature.
Jun Tanikawa Martins
A hidden gem in Higashiyama! This temple is perfect if you want to avoid crowds. It’s a big traditional japanese mansion and you can explore the rooms quite freely. The garden is breathtaking and the altars are perfect for meditation. I could spend the whole day there!
When is the best time to visit Shōrenin Temple (Kyoto, Japan)?
In late March–April, cherry blossoms bloom in Kirishima Garden—visit early to avoid crowds. In mid-November, maples turn red—bring warm layers for cooler evenings.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult entrance fee (2 × ¥500) | JPY 1,000 |
| Matcha tea for adults (2 × ¥500) | JPY 1,000 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 2,000 |
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 Shōrenin Temple
Address: 69-1 Awadaguchi Sanjōbōchō, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0035, Japan
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About Shōrenin 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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