Tenryu-ji is 72% Kids-Friendly
What are the highlights at Tenryu-ji (with kids)?
- UNESCO temple with free entry for under-6 kids
- Mossy pond garden paths safe for young children
- Dragon ceiling art and sutra copying engage older kids
- Historic halls offer cultural insights
- Seasonal flowers and foliage add color to the visit
How Kids-Friendly is Tenryu-ji?
School-age children enter cheaply and can roam safe garden paths, yet there is no play space; halls require silence, and stairs mean a parent must watch them carefully.
Considerations for visiting Tenryu-ji (with kids)
Positives:
- Free entry for younger children: Children under 6 enter the garden for free, easing costs.
- Wide paths: Gravel paths and open spaces allow kids to explore safely.
Challenges:
- Stairs and gravel: Steep steps and uneven ground make stroller use difficult.
- No playground: There is no play equipment; kids may need breaks elsewhere.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: A visit lasting 2 to 3 hours is enough for a family with kids to explore the garden, halls, and a short activity without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Tenryu-ji
Sogen Pond Garden Walk:
Stroll around the moss-lined pond and stone arrangements.
Tip: Let kids spot koi fish near the edge and snap photos of Arashiyama hills.
Main Hall & Shoin Building:
View painted sliding doors and historic wooden halls.
Tip: Encourage older kids to notice the tiled roofs and wooden joinery details.
Cloud Dragon Ceiling Painting:
See Matazō Kayama’s dragon on the Dharma Hall ceiling.
Tip: Check weekend opening days and ask kids to count the dragon’s claws.
Shakyo (Sutra Copying):
Practice calligraphy by copying temple sutras with brush and ink.
Tip: Reserve in advance and let kids try basic kanji strokes.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Garden admission (2 adults, 2 kids) | JPY 1,600 |
| Temple halls access (2 adults, 2 kids) | JPY 1,200 |
| Cloud Dragon painting (2 adults, 2 kids) | JPY 2,000 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 4,800 |
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 Tenryu-ji?
Visit in spring for cherry blossoms, autumn for colorful leaves. Paths may be muddy after rain; bring a light jacket in cooler months.
How to Maximize Your Visit to Tenryu-ji
- Arrive early: Come at opening time to avoid crowds and find parking nearby.
- Pack snacks: Bring water and light snacks; on-site options are limited.
- Combine nearby sights: Pair your visit with the Bamboo Grove for varied scenery.
Map of Tenryu-ji
Address: Japan, 〒616-8385 京都府京都市右京区嵯峨天龍寺芒ノ馬場町６８
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Reviews of Tenryu-ji
Karina O'Flynn
Stunning temple. The gardens are beautiful and I would definitely recommend doing them!!! However I would not pay the extra to go in the actual temple as it really just is what you can see from the outside and you can get the appreciation of all of it from the gardens too!!! Very tranquil, very peaceful. Clean toilets. Tickets to be payed for in cash
Mariah MacDonald
Gorgeous place! The temple was nice and cool in the insanely hot weather, and most tourists were quiet and respectful. The grounds were beautiful! Please wear socks when visiting.
Cody P
The best part about this temple is the beautiful gardens and pond (costs 500¥ to enter). It’s a separate charge to enter the temple itself but we felt that the gardens were enough in our opinion. This is an easy temple to visit if you’re already in the area to see the bamboo grove.
Fazrul Azimi
Cost 500yen per person to enter the garden part as of the writing of the review. You need to pay separate to enter the temple itself with your shoes off. Worth every yen in my opinion. Very beutiful garden and pond near the temple. You can get beautiful shots of the place here. Would highly recommend here if you are planning to go to the bamboo forest.
C M
The nature surrounding this temple is the most beautiful i have seen comparing to other places. Absolutely wonderfull. When looking at the water, there are multiple seats to enjoy it for a longer time and relax. I just recommend other tourists to keep in mind that it is supposed to be a zen garden, so the experience is nicer when everyone stays quiet. It is a different experience when everyone i...
About Tenryu-ji
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 75-881-1235See available options
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