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Jingo-ji Temple is one of the important temples of the Shingon sect of Buddhism in Japan, located on Takao-san in Ukyo Ward, Kyoto City.
It is not an easy temple to reach and requires a climb to see it, which makes its atmosphere more quiet and sacred.
Jingoji Temple offers different scenery in each season, but autumn is undoubtedly the most unmissable.
Autumn (mid-October to late November): Jingoji Temple is at its most beautiful, especially from early to late November, when the autumn leaves are at their peak. At this time, the temple is surrounded by a blanket of crimson leaves, creating a breathtaking spectacle. During the autumn foliage season, the temple also hosts a nighttime illumination, creating a dreamlike effect as the maple leaves lining the stone steps are illuminated.
Spring (March-May): In spring, the temple is dotted with pink heather flowers, full of life, and is also a good time to visit.
Summer (June-August): The mountains and forests are lush and green, and the climate is cool, making it a great place to escape the heat and experience the tranquility of the mountains.
Winter (December-February): There are few tourists. On snowy days, the ancient temple is covered with snow, which creates a unique quiet and solemn beauty.
Recommended places to visit:
1. Cultural Relics
(1) The Golden Hall
houses the National Treasure Yakushi Nyorai statue and is the main hall of Jingo-ji Temple.
(2) Daishi Hall
: According to legend, this is where Kūkai, the Great Master, preached Buddhism after returning from the Tang Dynasty. It is the only building in the area that escaped the war.
(3)
The bronze bell inside the bell tower is known as the "Three Wonders Bell" because it bears a preface by Tachibana Hirosho, an inscription by Sugawara no Koreyoshi, and calligraphy by Fujiwara no Toshiyuki.
(4) The Five Great Halls
house the five seated statues of Akasagarbha Bodhisattva, a national treasure.
2. Natural Viewing
(1) Stone Steps and Red Leaves
The 400-plus stone steps leading from the mountain gate to the temple grounds are surrounded by towering maple trees, forming a "red leaf tunnel" in autumn.
(2) There are huge maple trees in front of and beside the Bishamon
Hall , which is one of the most beautiful autumn leaf views in Jingo-ji Temple.
Jingoji Temple, located in Kyoto, Japan, is a historic Buddhist temple founded in the early Heian period. It is known for its ancient architecture, sacred relics, and its role as a center of Shugendo practices blending Shinto and Buddhist traditions.
The temple is situated in the northern mountains of Kyoto. Visitors can take a bus from Kyoto Station to Jingoji-michi bus stop and then walk 15–20 minutes uphill, or use a taxi for direct access.
Typically open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are autumn for the vibrant leaves and spring for cherry blossoms.
Entrance fees are around 500–600 JPY for adults. Tickets are usually purchased onsite; online booking is rarely required but may be available for group tours.
Advance booking is not typically required for individual visitors. Group tours may book a few days to a week in advance.
1.5 to 2 hours is sufficient to explore the main temple grounds, buildings, and nearby walking paths.
Guided tours are occasionally offered in Japanese; English pamphlets may be available, but audio guides are limited.
Enter through the main gate, visit the main hall and pagodas, explore the treasure hall, then follow the hillside paths for panoramic views and nature photography.
Night visits are rare; some seasonal illumination events may occur, particularly during autumn foliage season. Check local schedules in advance.
Moderately busy during autumn foliage and cherry blossom seasons. Weekdays in spring or early summer are less crowded.
Basic amenities include toilets, small souvenir shops, and benches. No major restaurants onsite, but cafes and restaurants are nearby in the approach area.
Access involves uphill walking; elderly and children should be cautious. Some areas are not wheelchair accessible.
Cash is recommended; credit cards may not be accepted at small shops or ticket booths.
Small local cafes and eateries near the base of the temple trail offering traditional Japanese snacks, tea, and light meals.
Vegetarian options may be available at some cafes. Vegan and halal options are limited and should be planned in advance.
