Ryoanji Temple

Religious spot
★ 4.9 (21K+ reviews) • 398K+ booked
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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Why people love Ryoanji Temple

4.9 /5
21K+ reviews
Read all reviews
Raphael **************
4 days ago
Location: Perfect location near arashiyama station and it is also near to the popular attraction in arashiyama. Staff: they are very friendly, the master sensei is very nice and tourist friendly and really know how to choose the best kimono for their customer. The quality of the kimonos we've used are authentic and on a high grade. you can choose differnt kinds of kimono with sizes from small to extra large, colors and design.
2+
Yau *********
4 days ago
this is fabulous experience to visit japanese castle in the night time. the light show is good and worth to visit it
Fellendorf ******
4 days ago
We had a great evening, I'm very happy that I bought the tickets here through Klook. Everything went smoothly and the event is definitely worth seeing. Everything was beautifully lit and illuminated.
Klook User
4 days ago
The sceneries during fall colors are amazing!! It was a good trip for our family. The tickets for the ramantic train sold out fast, so it is good to book early to secure a seat.
Klook User
4 days ago
it was a great trip, we had so much fun. our tour guides, laura and lucy are approachable and informative
1+
. *****
4 days ago
It is really convenient to buy online. If you are not satisfied with your order, you can change your seat for free. I really recommend taking the train from Kameoka Station back to Saga Arashiyama Station. The scenery is very beautiful, so remember not to get off at the wrong station.
2+
. *****
4 days ago
There are so many people in Nijo Castle during the day. If you are tired of queuing, you might as well check out Nijo Castle at night. You don’t have to queue and just swipe your electronic ticket to enter. The projection sculptures inside are beautiful, there are not many people and there are some small vendors, making it very comfortable to stroll around.
2+
. *****
4 days ago
A very convenient electronic ticket. It happened to be the monster season. Although you can only see the Hyakuki Night Parade on holidays, I was lucky enough to see monsters when I went on weekdays. Thank you Klook.
2+

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FAQs about Ryoanji Temple

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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.