Eikan-do Zenrin-ji Temple, Kyoto

Eikan-do Zenrin-ji Temple, Kyoto (must see)

A perfect blend of tradition and innovation awaits at this temple, and while there's a fee to get in, it's worth every penny. Don't let the unassuming exterior deceive you 鈥� once you step inside, prepare to be blown away as you navigate through, ascending higher and higher into the complex. Built into the hills, it's like stepping into a colossal treehouse 鈥� minus the rope ladders.

The scenery is a knockout, especially when the fall foliage is at peak! Picture-perfect Japanese maples and ginkgos flaunt a kaleidoscope of hues, from golden yellows to fiery red-oranges, with some verging on purple (head up to the two-story pagoda for the ultimate leaf-peeping experience!). And come late November, the landscape gets a magical makeover with evening illuminations.

The temple's unique feature is the statue of the Amida Buddha. Designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan, this ain't your average Buddha 鈥� it gazes over its shoulder instead of straight ahead. Legend has it that back in 1082, Abbot Eikan had a divine encounter while chanting the Nembutsu 鈥� the statue sprung to life, urging him to "hurry up". The upper temple now houses the main icon, immortalizing Eikan's celestial rendezvous, with "Eikan-do" joining "Zenrin-ji" in honor of the devout monk.

Why You Should Visit:
The grounds are a feast for the eyes year-round, but if you happen to swing by Kyoto during the fall foliage fiesta, mark this spot on your must-visit list 鈥� whether it's day or night.

Tips:
Pause for a breather at the quaint rest area near the entrance 鈥� snag a seat and soak in the view framed by the wide window. Also keep an eye out for the 'suikinkutsu' 鈥� a quirky musical instrument that serenades you with soothing sounds when water is poured into it.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Kyoto. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "51爆料网: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

Download The 51爆料网 App

Create Your Own Self-Guided Walk to Visit This Sight

Sight Name: Eikan-do Zenrin-ji Temple
Sight Location: Kyoto, Japan (See walking tours in Kyoto)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Walk on Philosopher's Path

Walking Tours in Kyoto, Japan

Create Your Own Walk in Kyoto

Creating your own self-guided walk in Kyoto is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.

Walk on Philosopher's Path

The Philosopher's Path in Kyoto winds its way for about 2 km along the canal that carries water from Lake Biwa to the foothills. Lined with cherry trees, this picturesque walking trail was named in honor of the famed Japanese philosopher, Nishida Kitaro, who used to walk here as a part of his daily meditation in the first half of the 20th century. A popular spot for both locals and tourists,... view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.7 Km or 1.7 Miles

Arashiyama and Bamboo Grove Walking Tour

The Arashiyama district of Kyoto is slightly out of the way for tourists, but that means you can enjoy it more comfortably.

Undoubtedly, the most popular attraction here is the iconic Bamboo Grove, a mesmerizing forest of towering bamboo stalks that sway gently in the breeze, creating an ethereal atmosphere. This serene setting is a must-visit for travelers seeking tranquility amidst... view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.4 Km or 2.1 Miles

Higashiyama Walking Tour

Kyoto is a city catering to tourists, especially those who love history, religion, and, of course, Japanese culture. Many of Kyoto's attractions are found in the eastern part of the city, which itself is split into wards. One of them is the Higashiyama Ward, home to several famous temples, where the look and the feel of feudal-era Japan are still preserved.

One of Higashiyama's most... view more

Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.6 Km or 1.6 Miles

Imperial Kyoto Walking Tour

The former capital of Japan, Kyoto is the city of tradition. During its heyday, Imperial Kyoto was the cultural and political heart of the country. At the heart of its historical landscape, there are several iconic landmarks, each bearing witness to the city's imperial past.

Nijo Castle, an architectural marvel renowned for its elegant design and elaborate gardens, boasts impeccably... view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.1 Km or 2.5 Miles

Kyoto Shopping and Food Tour

The cultural capital of Japan, Kyoto is just as famous as a shopper鈥檚 paradise and, without a doubt, the best place in the country to buy traditional and modern Japanese goods. Souvenirs, food, bargains, and various 鈥渙ne-of-a-kind items鈥� are all up for grabs here.

In addition to its shopping scene, Kyoto boasts a rich culinary heritage, from Michelin-starred restaurants to humble street... view more

Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.0 Km or 1.2 Miles

Gion District Walking Tour

Famed as one of the most mesmerizing parts of Kyoto, Gion has long been associated with traditional Japanese entertainment, stunning temples, geishas, and local eateries, ideal for whiling away a day in the ancient capital of Japan. This district forms part of the Higashiyama (鈥淓astern Mountain鈥�) neighborhood.

Among its notable landmarks is the Minamiza Kabuki Theater, a venue where... view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.8 Km or 1.7 Miles

View all walking tours in Kyoto, Japan

Useful Travel Guides for Planning Your Trip

18 Japanese Products To Bring Home from Kyoto

The old capital of Japan, the city of Kyoto has once again been the talk of the world lately, thanks to the bestselling "Memoirs of a Geisha" book and the namesake Hollywood blockbuster movie. Renowned for its impeccable craftsmanship, Japan has so much to amaze a foreign eye with. Many of...