Ryoan-ji Temple, located in Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, is a Zen temple of the Myoshin-ji School of Rinzai Buddhism.
The temple’s principal object of worship is a statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, and its founder is said to be Katsumoto Hosokawa, a prominent samurai of the Muromachi period.
In 1975, Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom visited the temple and expressed her admiration for its famous rock garden. Since then, Ryoan-ji has gained worldwide recognition as a must-visit destination.
The main highlights include the Hojo (main hall), where you can view the iconic rock garden, and Kyoyo-chi Pond, which offers beautiful seasonal scenery.
This article will take a deep dive into Ryoan-ji, covering not only its main attractions like the rock garden but also some lesser-known spots that add to its charm.
What Is Ryoan-ji?
Ryoan-ji is a Zen temple of the Myoshin-ji School of Rinzai Buddhism, located in Ukyo Ward, Kyoto.
Its mountain name is “Daiunzan,” and it is best known for its dry landscape garden, commonly called the “Rock Garden.” This serene space attracts visitors from both Japan and around the world.
The origins of the rock garden, including when it was built, who designed it, and its purpose, remain a mystery. These unanswered questions add to its allure and inspire various theories.
Another highlight of the temple is Kyoyo-chi Pond, which covers over one-third of the temple grounds.
The large strolling garden surrounding the pond is a scenic spot where you can enjoy the beauty of each season.
Ryoan-ji offers a unique combination of the Zen-like simplicity of its rock garden and the vibrant charm of its strolling garden, making it a place where you can experience the essence of “wabi-sabi.”
The History of Ryoan-ji
Ryoan-ji was established in 1450 by Katsumoto Hosokawa, a powerful feudal lord of the Muromachi shogunate. He invited Giten Gensho, a Zen monk from Myoshin-ji Temple, to create this Zen temple.
Today, Ryoan-ji boasts expansive grounds, but it is said that the original temple precincts extended as far as the area near the current Keifuku Railway tracks.
The temple was burned down during the Onin War in 1467 but was rebuilt in 1499 by Katsumoto’s son and the fourth abbot, Tokuhou Zenketsu.
Interestingly, an 18th-century travel guidebook from 1780 highlights Kyoyo-chi Pond rather than the rock garden, which is now the main attraction. Back then, the pond was famous for its starlings and was celebrated as a strolling garden offering seasonal beauty.
The origins of the rock garden—its creation date, designer, and purpose—remain shrouded in mystery, adding to the fascination of those who visit.
In 1975, Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom visited Ryoan-ji and praised its rock garden. This event brought the temple global fame, making it a must-see destination for travelers worldwide.
In 1994, Ryoan-ji was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the “Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto,” which includes 17 cultural properties.
Best Seasons to Visit Ryoan-ji
Ryoan-ji is a year-round destination where you can enjoy the beauty of all four seasons.
- Spring: Cherry blossoms bloom along the path leading to the Hojo (main hall), creating a vibrant and picturesque scene.
- May to July: The surface of Kyoyo-chi Pond is covered with water lilies in full bloom, offering a stunning sight.
- Autumn: The temple grounds are transformed with vivid autumn foliage.
- Winter: Snow blankets the dry landscape garden, creating a serene and enchanting view.
Each season adds its unique charm to your visit to Ryoan-ji.
How to Get to Ryoan-ji
Ryoan-ji is located in the Rakusai area of Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, near other UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Ninna-ji and Kinkaku-ji.
From Kyoto Station, you can reach the temple by train, bus, or car. Although it’s about 30 minutes from the city center, Ryoan-ji is easily accessible thanks to its convenient transportation options.
For those traveling by bus, consider using a Kyoto City Bus One-Day Pass, available at Kyoto Station or subway ticket counters, to make your trip more economical.
By Train:
- Take the Keifuku Kitano Line to Ryoanji Station, then walk for 7 minutes.
By Bus:
- From Kyoto Station, take City Bus #50 to Ritsumeikan University-mae, then walk for 7 minutes.
- From Omiya Station (Hankyu Railway), take City Bus #5 to Ritsumeikan University-mae, then walk for 7 minutes.
- From Sanjo Station (Keihan Railway), take City Bus #59 to Ryoanji-mae, located right by the temple.
Visitor Information for Ryoan-ji
- Address: 13 Ryoanji Goryonoshita-cho, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan
- Map: Google Maps
- Phone: +81-75-463-2216
- Closed: Open year-round
- Hours:
- March 1 to November 30: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- December 1 to the end of February: 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM
- Admission Fees:
- Adults and high school students: 500 yen
- Elementary and middle school students: 300 yen
- Official Website: Ryoan-ji
Ryoan-ji is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with spacious grounds, so it’s best to wear comfortable shoes for walking.
- Tickets: Purchase an admission ticket at the booth near the main gate. If you only plan to visit Seigen-in, a restaurant specializing in yudofu (tofu hot pot), inform the staff at the ticket booth to head directly to the restaurant.
- Photography: You are generally allowed to take photos within the grounds, but be mindful not to block or disrupt the flow of other visitors, especially in crowded areas.
- Accessibility:
- Wheelchair-accessible restrooms are available, ensuring a comfortable visit for those with mobility challenges.
- If you need assistance navigating the grounds, notify the staff in advance, and they will provide support.
Highlights of Ryoan-ji
Discover the charm of Ryoan-ji from the perspective of someone who has visited multiple times. This Zen temple offers a perfect blend of serene beauty and cultural significance.
1. The Famous Rock Garden and Cultural Treasures: Hojo and Rock Garden
One of the main attractions of Ryoan-ji is its rock garden (Hojo Garden), located in the heart of the temple grounds. This dry landscape garden measures 25 meters wide and 10 meters deep, featuring 15 stones arranged with meticulous balance.
The garden, also known as the “Tiger Cubs Crossing Garden” or the “Shichi-Go-San (7-5-3) Garden,” is a masterpiece of simplicity. While the purpose and meaning behind its design remain a mystery, the garden invites visitors to reflect and find their own interpretation.
The garden incorporates clever visual tricks:
- The stone wall at the back gradually slopes downward, creating an optical illusion that enhances the garden’s sense of depth.
- The garden is slightly tilted to prevent rainwater from accumulating, ensuring its pristine appearance.
Adjacent to the rock garden, you’ll find a miniature model designed for visually impaired visitors. This tactile model replicates the garden’s layout, including the rippling white sand and textured stones, making it accessible to all.
Nearby, wheelchair-accessible restrooms and thoughtful facilities ensure that visitors with mobility challenges can enjoy their visit comfortably.
Ryoan-ji’s fusuma (sliding door) paintings are another highlight of the Hojo. After being lost during the anti-Buddhist movement of the Meiji era, these treasures returned to the temple over 100 years later.
Among the notable works are six fusuma featuring “Gunsen-zu” (Images of Immortals), attributed to the Kano school, which were restored to Ryoan-ji in 2010. In 2018, nine additional fusuma, separated from the temple for 123 years, were bought back and displayed briefly to commemorate their return.
While these artworks are not always on view, keep an eye out for future special exhibitions to experience these historical masterpieces.
While exploring the Hojo, don’t miss the tsukubai (a stone washbasin) tucked away in a small corner. At its center, the square basin is surrounded by four kanji characters forming the phrase “Ware tada taru wo shiru” (I know contentment).
This Zen teaching, meaning “to know satisfaction is to eliminate desire,” reflects the essence of Buddhist philosophy and is deeply tied to the spirit of the Japanese tea ceremony. Look carefully as you stroll, as it’s easy to miss this small but profound feature.
The wooden corridors connecting the rooms of the Hojo are surrounded by lush trees, with warm wood-grain floors and ceilings creating a cozy, natural ambiance.
Designated an Important Cultural Property, the Hojo was originally built in 1606 by Oda Nobunaga’s brother, Oda Nobukatsu. The current structure was relocated after a fire in 1797.
Inside the Hojo, you’ll also find a stunning ceiling painting of a dragon, created over five years, and fusuma painted with views of Mount Kumgang in North Korea, offering a glimpse into the temple’s historical and artistic connections.
2. Enjoy Seasonal Beauty at Kyoyo-chi Pond
Kyoyo-chi Pond, surrounded by a strolling garden, is one of Ryoan-ji’s highlights alongside its famous rock garden.
The approach to the pond, framed by lush trees, exudes a serene and sacred atmosphere typical of a Zen temple.
When I visited in June, the rainy season had just begun. The pathway was vibrant with fresh greenery, reflecting the energy of early summer.
During late spring and early summer (May to June), the pond comes alive with blooming water lilies, a stunning sight that lasts only for a short period. Even in the rain, their beauty is captivating enough to make you stop for photos. Stroll around the pond to find your favorite angles for taking pictures.
On rainy days, the scene feels wistful and poetic, while sunny days offer a refreshing view with blue skies as the backdrop. Around the pond, you might also spot ducks and herons resting by the water’s edge, adding to the tranquil atmosphere.
Autumn is one of the busiest seasons at Ryoan-ji, drawing visitors from around the world. The maple trees surrounding the rock garden and Kyoyo-chi Pond turn vivid shades of red and orange, creating a spectacular view.
Take a leisurely walk around the pond, surrounded by fiery autumn leaves, and soak in the vibrant beauty of the season.
In winter, Ryoan-ji reveals a quieter, more contemplative charm. The rock garden, with its minimalistic design, looks particularly stunning under a blanket of snow, embodying the essence of Zen philosophy.
The snow-covered paths around Kyoyo-chi Pond radiate a unique sense of clarity and calm that is only found in winter. It’s the perfect time to experience the temple’s peaceful atmosphere.
3. Hidden Gems Within the Grounds
In the garden of the Hojo (main hall), you’ll find a magnificent camellia tree called the Wabisuke Camellia.
This tree is said to be named after a person called Wabisuke, who brought camellias to Japan from Korea during the Momoyama period. Known for its connection to the Japanese aesthetic of wabi-sabi, this camellia was adored by famous tea masters like Sen no Rikyu.
Legend has it that the tree was even praised by Toyotomi Hideyoshi and is considered one of the oldest camellias in Japan. After enjoying the rock garden, take your time exploring the Hojo to find this special tree.
On the western side of the temple grounds, you’ll find a white pagoda that many visitors often overlook. This pagoda honors those who lost their lives in Burma (present-day Myanmar) during World War II.
Surrounded by trees, the pagoda has a sacred and tranquil atmosphere. Be sure to visit the nearby memorial hall as well to appreciate this serene corner of Ryoan-ji.
The Chokushi-mon Gate, an important cultural property, is another highlight of Ryoan-ji. While the original gate was destroyed in a fire in 1797, the current one was relocated from Saigen-in Temple.
This gate has a royal connection—when Queen Elizabeth II visited Ryoan-ji in 1975, she entered the Hojo through this very gate to view the rock garden.
Although it’s not open for use, visitors can admire the gate up close and take photos. Don’t forget to pair this with a visit to the San-mon Gate, the temple’s grand entrance, for a complete architectural experience.
Recommended Sightseeing Spots Around Ryoan-ji
The area surrounding Ryoan-ji, part of the scenic Kinukake no Michi, is home to many breathtaking temples and shrines. From temples with deep ties to Ryoan-ji to the golden brilliance of Kinkaku-ji, this area is full of must-see attractions.
1. Ninna-ji Temple: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with a Majestic Five-Story Pagoda
Located just a 2-minute walk from the Randen Omuro-Ninna-ji Station or about a 10-minute bus ride from Ryoan-ji, Ninna-ji Temple is the head temple of the Omuro school of the Shingon sect of Buddhism.
Founded in 888, this historic temple was once the residence of Emperor Uda, who established a palace within the temple grounds. This connection to the Imperial family earned it the name Omuro Imperial Palace. Like Ryoan-ji, Ninna-ji was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994 as part of the “Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto.”
Chokushi-mon Gate: This simple yet elegant gate, built in 1913, enhances the tranquil beauty of the dry landscape garden.
Five-Story Pagoda: Built during the Edo period, this iconic structure blends seamlessly with the surrounding garden and natural scenery. From the northern garden (Kitaniwa) within the temple grounds, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the pagoda throughout the year.
Omuro Goten (Ninna-ji Palace): A major attraction, the palace features two beautiful gardens—the Southern Garden (Nanniwa) and the Northern Garden (Kitaniwa)—along with historical buildings like the Shinden (Main Hall) and Shiroshoin (White Study Hall) adorned with intricate fusuma (sliding door) paintings.
The Southern Garden is particularly striking, featuring sakura (cherry blossoms) and tachibana (mandarin orange trees) framed by raked white gravel that resembles gentle waves.
Ninna-ji Temple
- Address: 33 Omuro Ouchi, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto
- Google Maps: Link
- Access:
- 2-minute walk from Randen Omuro-Ninna-ji Station.
- From JR Kyoto Station, take City Bus No. 26 and get off at Omuro-Ninna-ji; it’s a short walk from there.
- Phone Number: 075-461-1155
- Hours:
- March–November: 9:00 AM–4:30 PM
- December–February: 9:00 AM–4:00 PM
- Admission Fees (Omuro Goten):
- Adults: 500 yen
- High school students: 500 yen
- Middle school and elementary school students: 300 yen
- Additional fees apply for seasonal exhibitions such as the Reihokan Museum.
- Official Website: Ninna-ji Temple
2. Myoshin-ji: The Head Temple of Ryoan-ji’s Sect
Just a 5-minute walk from JR Sagano Line’s Hanazono Station or City Bus stop Myoshinji-mae, Myoshin-ji is one of the largest Zen temples in Japan.
This temple is known for its strict Zen training, especially under the Rinzai sect’s Linji school. Visitors might even catch a glimpse of monks engaged in their daily practices and training sessions.
Myoshin-ji offers an authentic experience of zazen (seated meditation) and shakyo (sutra copying) for those interested in exploring Zen philosophy. These activities provide insight into zazenjo, a way of living free from attachment, which is a core teaching of Zen.
The temple grounds are open 24/7 for free exploration, but reservations and fees apply for participation in activities like meditation and sutra copying.
The Butsuden (Main Hall), housing the temple’s principal deity, is a must-see. Built during the Edo period, this remarkable structure is a designated Important Cultural Property. Strolling through the grounds, visitors can admire the serene atmosphere and traditional architecture scattered across the complex.
Myoshin-ji
- Address: 1 Hanazono Myoshinji-cho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto
- Google Maps: Link
- Access:
- 5-minute walk from JR Sagano Line’s Hanazono Station
- From Hankyu Saiin Station, take City Bus No. 91 to Myoshinji-mae and walk 5 minutes
- Phone Number: 075-466-5381
- Hours:
- Temple grounds: Open 24 hours
- Hatto (Lecture Hall): 9:00 AM–4:40 PM (March–October only for tours after 4:00 PM)
- Admission Fees (Hatto):
- Adults: 700 yen
- Elementary and middle school students: 400 yen
- Official Website: Myoshin-ji Temple
3. Kinkaku-ji: The Iconic Golden Pavilion of Kyoto’s Western Area
Located just a short walk from the Kinkaku-ji-mae bus stop, Kinkaku-ji is one of Kyoto’s most famous landmarks. It takes about 30 minutes to reach by city bus from Kyoto Station.
While its official name is Rokuon-ji, the temple is commonly called Kinkaku-ji because of its stunning golden Shariden (Relic Hall). This dazzling structure was originally built as a villa for Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, a shogun of the Muromachi period, and later converted into a Zen temple.
Unlike the simpler elegance of its counterpart, Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion), Kinkaku-ji reflects the opulence of the Kitayama Culture, a style influenced by flourishing trade with China. The building is covered in gold leaf, showcasing the splendor of that era.
The temple is also recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it a must-visit destination in Kyoto.
The combination of the Shariden, its surrounding trees, and the Kyoko-chi (Mirror Pond) creates a breathtaking scene that represents the Buddhist concept of paradise on earth. On sunny days, you may be lucky enough to see the stunning reflection of the Golden Pavilion on the pond, known as the “upside-down Kinkaku.”
Kinkaku-ji (Rokuon-ji)
- Address: 1 Kinkakuji-cho, Kita Ward, Kyoto
- Google Maps: Link
- Access:
- From JR Kyoto Station, take City Bus Nos. 12, 59, 101 (express), 102 (express), 204, or 205. Get off at Kinkaku-ji-mae or Kinkaku-ji-michi and walk a few minutes.
- Phone Number: 075-461-0013
- Open Hours:
- Regular: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM (Special opening hours may vary during specific events.)
- Admission Fees:
- Adults: 400 yen
- Elementary & middle school students: 300 yen
- Official Website: Kinkaku-ji Temple
Ryoan-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage Site admired by Queen Elizabeth II, is a must-visit destination in Kyoto.
This Zen temple is famous for its carefully designed rock garden, a masterpiece of simplicity and precision. Another highlight is Kyoyo-chi Pond, which covers nearly half of the temple grounds and offers a tranquil atmosphere for visitors.
Be sure to explore these iconic features during your visit!
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