Ryoanji Temple
Religious spot
Ryoanji Temple is a Zen temple in Kyoto, Japan. It's famous for its beautiful rock garden with fifteen stones carefully placed on white gravel. This garden makes you think deeply and shows the amazing influence of Zen Buddhism on Japanese garden art. When you visit Ryoanji Temple, take the time to appreciate this rock garden from the wooden porch of the abbot's quarters for the best view. But there's more to see at Ryoanji Temple than just the rock garden. The temple grounds are home to the beautiful Kyoyochi Pond and a well-kept back garden. These areas are perfect for a peaceful walk. You'll also find a famous stone water basin, showcasing traditional Japanese design. When you're in Kyoto, don't miss the chance to visit Ryoanji Temple. Its timeless beauty and historical importance make it a must-see on your visit to Japan!
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13 Ryoanji Goryonoshitacho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8001, Japan
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Walking Tour of Western Kyoto : Arashiyama, Kinkakuji and Koboshi
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[Kyoto & Nara Day Tour] Arashiyama Train & Nara Park & Fushimi Inari Shrine Thousand Torii Gates & Togetsukyo Bridge & Bamboo Forest Path & Kimono Forest (Depart from Osaka)
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Golden Pavilion Temple,Kiyomizu Temple,Fushimi Inari Taisha Day Tour
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SHIGETSU (天龍寺 篩月) in Kyoto Arashiyama - Michelin recommend Shojin Vegetarian Cuisine
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Pontocho Food Tour, Kyoto (3 Hours)
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Why people love Ryoanji Temple
Klook客路用户
2 days ago
This one-day tour experience was great! The tour guides Lucy and Nate were very enthusiastic. They explained the attractions in detail and were humorous. We enjoyed the beautiful scenery in joy. The group tour arrangement was very convenient. We could visit multiple attractions in one day and check in efficiently. The tour guide was also very considerate. The recommended eel rice and wagyu restaurants were great. The food and the scenery were great. Highly recommended to tourists who are visiting for the first time and want to check in at multiple attractions. It is very rewarding. I look forward to the next group tourヾﾉ≧∀≦)o
2+
Klook 用戶
2 days ago
Ember and Scarlett are very serious and considerate. They created a line/whatsapp group the day before the trip to facilitate everyone's contact. They will also post many recommended attractions or shops in the itinerary, and even give out warm packs and cookies. This is the best experience I have ever participated in. Great day trip!
2+
Myla ******
2 days ago
Steven is a great tour guide. He really knows what he is doing and made the tours lively and fun. The locations are great.
diery *********
2 days ago
Thank you Christine and Laura for the trip. It was very organized and very clear. We enjoy it.
2+
John ************
2 days ago
very good place to visit during this time as the color of the leaves are still red and yellow, deers are nice too.
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Stuart ***
2 days ago
Kudos to Theodore Chan for guiding us. He got everything sorted so that we don't have to. Nice introductions to some local history of each stop. Recommended.
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Eileen ***
2 days ago
We had the pleasure of experiencing a tour guided by Steven, and we wanted to express our heartfelt gratitude for his outstanding service.
Steven's sense of humor and friendly demeanor made our tour truly memorable. His timely updates and efficient service ensured that everything ran smoothly, allowing us to fully enjoy our experience. We feel incredibly fortunate to have had him as our guide.
Thank you, Steven, for making our tour so enjoyable and for your excellent service.
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cynthia ******
2 days ago
My son is an anime fan and he was super happy and delighted with the entire exhibition. Due to time constraints, we did not have the opportunity to use the costumes, but I think it is a great experience to walk around the studio village.
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What to know before visiting Ryoanji Temple
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Things to do in Ryoanji Temple
Explore the Rock Garden
The rock garden at Ryoanji Temple is one of Japan's most famous zen gardens. It has fifteen rocks set in white gravel that is carefully raked. The garden is simple and meant to make you think deeply. It's a peaceful place to sit and wonder about its beauty and meaning.
Visit the Kyoyochi Pond
Walk around the beautiful Kyoyochi Pond, which is surrounded by green plants and colorful flowers. This calm pond makes the temple even more peaceful. It's a perfect spot for a relaxing walk and to enjoy the natural beauty and Japanese garden designs.
See the Famous Stone Water Basin
Inside the temple grounds, there's a stone water basin with a Zen saying that means "I learn only to be content." This special feature is a great example of Japanese art. The simple but deep message makes your visit even more meaningful.
Learn About the Temple's History
Ryoanji Temple used to be a noble's house before it became a zen temple in the Muromachi period. Find out about the temple's long history and its role in Zen Buddhism. Looking at the sliding doors and abbot's quarters shows you how monks lived here long ago.
Must-See Attractions Near Ryoanji Temple
Kinkaku-ji (The Golden Pavilion)
Just a short walk from Ryoanji Temple, Kinkaku-ji is famous for its amazing golden exterior. The temple looks beautiful reflecting in the pond, making it perfect for photos. This place is a must-see because of its history and architecture.
Ninna-ji Temple
Close by, Ninna-ji Temple has lovely Japanese gardens and big temple grounds to explore. It's especially famous for its cherry blossoms, so it's a great place to visit in the spring. The temple also has many historical artifacts and buildings from the Heian period.
Myoshin-ji Temple Complex
The Myoshin-ji Temple Complex is a large group of Zen Buddhism temples. Near Ryoanji Temple, it offers a peaceful getaway with its calm gardens and traditional temple buildings. It's a fantastic spot to learn more about Kyoto's rich Zen heritage.