An imperial palace, converted into a temple, is one of the highest ranked temples.

---

Daikaku-ji Temple is a large temple located in Kyoto’s northern Sagano district. Originally built in the early 800s as the detached palace of Emperor Saga, he cherished this calm area on the outskirts of Kyoto. The Shinden, the emperor’s daily-use palace, is designated an Important Cultural Property, and the entire temple grounds are a national historic site.

Thirty years after Emperor Saga’s death, the palace was converted into a temple and has since become one of the highest-ranked temples of Shingon Buddhism.

The Shingyo Pagoda, a two-tiered tahoto-style pagoda erected to commemorate the 1,150th anniversary of Emperor Saga writing the Heart Sutra, stands in the gardens. A network of walking paths connects the pagoda, gardens, and buildings, allowing visitors to enjoy the scenic ponds, architecture, and tranquil natural surroundings.

---

Osawa-no-Ike Pond

Osawa-no-Ike Pond, designed by Emperor Saga, is especially famous for moon-viewing and cherry blossoms. During these seasons, visitors can enjoy boat rides to take in the scenic beauty and admire the traditional boats themselves.

---

Plum blossom

---

---

Address : 4 Saga-Osawa-cho, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto

Access : 15-minute walk from Saga-Arashiyama station on the JR Sagano Line

---

Admission : 500yen

---

Events

Moon Viewing Festival “Kangetsu-no-Yube”

Moon-viewing festival started when Emperor Saga floated a boat on the Osawa-no-ike Pond on the night of the full moon nearest the Autumn Equinox, and had a party. Visitors can see both the brilliant full moon in the night sky and the reflection on the pond.

---

Daikaku-ji Temple Autumn Illumination

Autumn color illumination is held at Daikaku-ji Temple in Arashiyama. The reflection of Shingyo Hoto pagoda and autumn leaves on the Osawa-no-ike pond’s surface are so beautiful and creates a fantastic atmosphere.