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Japan/Things to Do in Kyoto, with kids

Tōfuku-ji Temple (with kids)

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How Kids-Friendly is Tōfuku-ji Temple?

67%Kids-Friendly
View Map

What makes it 67% Kids-Friendly: Kids pay half price and can roam courtyards spotting carvings, but steep stairs, required quiet in halls, and no interactive exhibits may cause boredom and fatigue after an hour.

Google
Reviews4.5/ 5
(from 10,187 reviews)
Autumn Leaves at Tofukuji Temple in Kyoto, Japan | Peak Season Views and Tsutenkyo Bridge [4K]
39 min
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Autumn Leaves at Tofukuji Temple in Kyoto, Japan | Peak Season Views and Tsutenkyo Bridge [4K]
13.6K views • 1 year ago
Exploring Toji Temple & Tofukuji Temple Kyoto Japan | Kyoto Temples
24 min
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Exploring Toji Temple & Tofukuji Temple Kyoto Japan | Kyoto Temples
4K views • 2 years ago

Positives:

  • Spacious Walkways: Wide flat paths let kids move safely and explore freely.
  • Interactive Gardens: Checkerboard moss patterns invite kids to count and learn.

Challenges:

  • Uneven Terrain: Some paths and stairs are steep and narrow.
  • Limited Food Options: No on-site vendors; bring snacks and drinks for kids.
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What is Tōfuku-ji Temple?

  • A 13th-century Zen Buddhist temple established in 1236 as the head temple of the Tōfuku-ji school of Rinzai Zen
  • A collection of Muromachi-period halls and gates, featuring Japan’s oldest Zen main gate (Sanmon) and multiple designated national treasures
  • Gardens and stone bridges arrayed among moss-covered courtyards, renowned for their autumn maple foliage

What is so special about Tōfuku-ji Temple for with kids?

  1. Cross the iconic Tsūten-kyō Bridge under vibrant maples.
  2. Count moss squares in the Hojo Dry Landscape Garden.
  3. Fun scavenger-hunt spots keep kids engaged.
  4. Flat paths and open courtyards for safe exploration.
  5. Family-friendly fees for bridges and gardens.

Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours

Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time to cross bridges, explore gardens, and rest without rushing kids.

(View Tōfuku-ji Temple on Map)

Kids-Friendly Activities in Tōfuku-ji Temple

Tsūten-kyō Bridge:

Cross the wooden ‘Bridge to Heaven’ over a maple-filled valley.

Tip: Visit early to avoid crowds and let kids lean safely on railings.

Hojo Dry Landscape Garden:

Admire the checkerboard moss and raked sand from the veranda.

Tip: Ask kids to count moss squares to keep them engaged.

Moss and Carving Scavenger Hunt:

Search for unique moss patterns and small stone carvings around the grounds.

Tip: Print a simple list before you arrive and let kids tick off finds.

Sanmon Gate:

Stand beneath Japan’s oldest Zen gate and learn its history.

Tip: Take a family photo under the gate for a memorable shot.

When is the best time to visit Tōfuku-ji Temple (Kyoto, Japan)?

Mid-November brings peak red maple colors around the valley. Visit on weekdays for quieter views.

✈️ Ready to go? Check the latest flight deals to Kyoto on Trip.com

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Reviews of Tōfuku-ji Temple (Kyoto)

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NIN Kongnav

NIN Kongnav

Aug 2025

It's worth checking out! The ticket is required if you visit its old bridge and garden which is 500 Y (3.33$). The garden is spectacular. I went there on 31 July 2025. Imagine if that was in Autumn 🍁! The photo is prohibited at the bridge. But I read it's seasonal.

Jason

Jason

Jun 2025

Visiting Tofuku-ji on a rainy day offered a completely different atmosphere — calm, serene, and deeply poetic. The rain brought out the rich greens of the moss and made the gardens feel even more peaceful. The stone paths glistened, and the whole temple grounds seemed to turn into a living ink painting. With fewer visitors around, I was able to really take in the quiet beauty and meditative mood o...

Clemens Wan

Clemens Wan

Jun 2025

I love this temple because it's got all the beauty of a rock garden, views of temple vista, mini hike, and peaceful scenery without the touristy crowd. It's truly a hidden gem and walking distance from fushimi Inari shrine if you've finished that long hike up the mountain. It's worth the 1000 yen to do both the garden and the bridge. The stamp for 500 yen is also amazingly intricate and beautiful.

Hash Man

Hash Man

May 2025

What a great way to spend a day. Relaxing and not crowded even though it’s only one station from Kyoto station. I’ll be coming back in a few months. I’ll be back with family and friends it was that nice. Pictures don’t do it justice. You just have to experience it all yourself. I’ll be avoiding this place as the colors change but will definitely be back as time permits. Thank you @tabieats for men...

Zainuri Hanif

Zainuri Hanif

Apr 2025

Tofuku-ji Temple in Kyoto is one of those places that quietly steals your heart. Unlike the more crowded temples in the city, Tofuku-ji offers a serene and reflective atmosphere, perfect for those seeking peace and beauty. One of the highlights of this temple complex is the Tsutenkyo Bridge, which gracefully stretches over a lush ravine. When I visited, it was winter—bare trees framed the path, r...

Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Tsūten-kyō Bridge & Kaisan-dō Hall (family)JPY 1,800
Hojo Garden (family)JPY 1,600
Total EstimatedJPY 3,400

Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Tōfuku-ji Temple

  1. Early Visit: Arrive by 9 AM to avoid crowds at the bridge.
  2. Ticket Ordering: Buy family tickets together at one window to save time.
  3. Coin Lockers: Store large bags at Kyoto Station lockers before arrival.
🚗 Planning to explore multiple Kyoto attractions? A rental car often costs less than daily taxi trips. Check Trip.com for deals. New users save up to 8% OFF.

Map of Tōfuku-ji Temple

Address: 15-chōme-778 Honmachi, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0981, Japan

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About Tōfuku-ji Temple

Opening Hours

Monday:9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Tuesday:9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Wednesday:9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Thursday:9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Friday:9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Saturday:9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Sunday:9:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Website

Official Website

Phone Number

+81 75-561-0087

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