Tenryu-ji | Must Visit Temple in Arashiyama
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The 2nd stop in our Arashiyama tour is just a few meters away from Sagano Bamboo Forest. Tenryu-ji or Tenryū Shiseizen-ji is a major Zen Temple complex in Arashiyama area and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tenryu-ji Temple is known for its traditional Japanese pond garden.
To visit Tenryu-ji, tourists have the option of exploring both the temple and the garden or garden only. During our visit to Tenryu-ji, we availed the garden only tour and paid 1,000.00 Yen for two pax.
This is the famous Sogenchi Teien or Sogen Pond Garden, situated at the back of the Abbot’s quarters or Daihojo, the largest structure in Tenryu-ji Temple complex.
We explored further Tenryu-ji and followed the trail beyond the pond through the lush Japanese garden. I believe that there’s a path that leads back to Sagano Bamboo Forest.
We stayed for a while to revel in the serene scene of the Sogen Pond Garden. After that, we back to the main road and started our food exploration of Arashiyama.
Here’s the complete guide to Kyoto.
WATCH THE FULL VLOG HERE
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT KYOTO, JAPAN
The best time to visit Kyoto, Japan is March to May during spring. Do note that cherry blossom season is also a peak season in Japan.
WHAT ARE THE THINGS TO PACK TO KYOTO, JAPAN - WINTER EDITION
Clothes for cold weather
Jacket
Comfortable shoes/ sneakers/ boots
Backpack
Camera / gear
Powerbank
Toiletries
Universal Adaptor (For Filipinos, no need since Japan is using the same outlet)
Tumbler
HOW TO GET TO ARASHIYAMA FROM KYOTO STATION
To get to Arashiyama from Kyoto Station, go to bus stop C6 and take Bus 73. If you are a JR Pass holder, take the San-In Line to Saga-Arashiyama Station.
HOW TO GET TO KYOTO STATION FROM ARASHIYAMA
To get to Kyoto Station from Arashiyama, take the Saga Arashiyama train to Kyoto. This is already covered if you are a JR Pass holder.
KYOTO, JAPAN BUDGET AND ITINERARY
Based on this itinerary, which includes all the activities and restaurants covered in the blog, the budget for our first day in Kyoto, Japan for two person is around 14,700.00 Yen or around Php5,300.00. See detailed budget and itinerary below:
NOTE: Rates indicated above may change.
IMPORTANT THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN VISITING TENRYU-JI
Aside from the basic things to consider in Japan, here are the things to consider in Tenryu-ji:
Tenryu-ji Information:
Website: https://www.tenryuji.com/en/
Address: 〒616-8385 Kyoto, Ukyo Ward, Sagatenryuji Susukinobabacho
Contact Number: +81 75-881-1235
Tenryu-ji Schedule:
Open from 8:30am-5:00pm
Tenryu-ji Admission
Tickets are sold at the entrance of the main building.
Adult
Garden only – 500.00
Garden and Temple – 800.00
Student
Garden only – 300.00
Garden and Temple – 600.00
KYOTO, JAPAN TRAVEL TIPS
Secure your passport
Be sure to have a credit card for emergency
Download the following Google Apps: Google Maps for Navigating and Google Translate for basic translation.
Rent a pocket Wi-Fi or eSim in advance. This way you’ll have data as soon as you land in Japan. I’ve tried pocket Wi-Fi during our vacation and encountered no issues on connections or signal.
If you are travelling around Japan, buy the Japan Rail Pass or JR Pass in advance. For convenience, best to avail the Green Car option. For Green Car holders, best to reserve your seat in advance as well. You can buy the JR Pass here.
Since trash cans or sorting bins are not common in public places or streets of Japan, best to have a small plastic/paper bag for your garbage.
Travelling with luggage in Japan across multiple cities in Japan can be challenging. For a convenient experience, try a luggage delivery service.
If you want to avoid crowd in tourist spots, schedule your visit early morning.
Exploring Japan often involves a significant amount of walking, so it's important to wear comfortable shoes.
Instead of buying bottled water, bring your own tumbler.
WHAT’S IN MY BAG?
If you want to know more about the cameras, gadgets and travel essentials I use, check out “MY GEAR”
This is a DIY travel guide to Shinsekai.