Hidden huge zen temple, Tofukuji Temple in Kyoto!
Hi I’m Nobu, I like traveling overseas and in Japan, visited 25 countries!
I’m a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter of English for 8 years.
I show you hidden Japan which you have never seen and heard of!
History
Tofukuji Temple is a Rinzai sect temple located south of Kyoto Station.
On this site (924) there was the huge complex of Hoseiji Temple.
In 1236,a Buddhist priest initiated the construction of a large temple on this site to enshrine a 15 m tall statue of Buddha.
The temple was named “Tofuku-ji Temple” after the two major temples in Nara, Todai-ji Temple and Kofuku-ji Temple.
Construction of the temple began in 1239 and was completed in 1255.
The temple was destroyed by fire in 1319, but was rebuilt and with its 15m statue of Buddha.
It flourished as the new Great Buddha Temple following Todaiji Temple in Nara.
It was again destroyed by fire in 1881.
The medieval remains of the temple, including the gate, are now national treasures and important cultural properties.
Lotus pond
The lotus pond behind the temple gate creates a paradise-like scene with the gate during the lotus flower season.
Zen gardens
The Zen gardens on the four sides of the main hall are beautiful, each with its own unique characteristics.
Aizen-do, with its beautiful vermilion color, is also a photo spot.
Bridges
A mountain stream flows through the temple grounds, and three bridges cross it.
The view from the bridges makes you feel like you are in the mountains, not in Kyoto City.
Colorful autumn leaves
In the fall, the entire valley is covered with beautifully colored autumn leaves.
It is one of the most popular places for viewing the colorful autumn leaves.
I recommend you go early in the morning, otherwise it will be crowded with many people.
Although it is not one of the 17 World Heritage Sites in Kyoto, it is more than worth seeing.
Admission fee is 1000 yen( 10 dollars)for the main hall and the Tsutenkyo Bridge area.
(The admission fees are 500 yen and 600 yen respectively, so a common ticket is a good deal.)
During the fall foliage season, the admission fee is 1,500 yen( 15 dollars).
It is well worth it.
Access
From Kyoto Station to Tofukuji Station is a 3 minute train ride for 150 yen( 1.5 dollars), and a 5 minute walk from the station.
Why don’t you visit one of Kyoto’s hidden gems?
I’m Nobu, one heart enjoy together!!!