A small zen temple in Arashiyama to offer a great view of the city of Kyoto, and some peace and quiet.
Senko-ji temple, located on the Arashiyama mountainside that offers a panoramic view of the city. The temple is located halfway up a mountain about 20 minutes walk from the Togetsukyo Bridge. The temple is worth to visit to enjoy a nice view and the tranquility. However visitors are required to hike up a bit on winding stone steps to the temple. Senko-ji Temple enshrines a wooden statue of “Suminokura Ryoi” , who dedicated his life to create the Hozugawa river.
Senko-ji has no admirable temple buildings but an impressive viewing platform on the mountainside facing towards the city of Kyoto. Visitors can step out onto a wooden balcony and appreciate the scenery while sitting in peace. You can also look for landmarks towards the city by using provided binoculars. On a clear day, you can see Kiyomizu-dera Temple on the other side of Kyoto.
Features
Senko-ji has an impressive balcony on the mountainside.
Senko-ji Temple let you ring their temple bell for free, though most temple bells are only available for donation. You draw back the rope with a beam hammer and hit the bell. That makes feel good when the sound echoes off into the mountains.
Address : Japan, 〒616-0004 Kyōto-fu, Kyōto-shi, Nishikyō-ku, Arashiyama Nakaoshitachō, 62
Access : 30-minute walk from Arashiyama station on Randen or Hankyu arashiyama line. 40-minute walk from JR Saga-Arashiyama station on the Sanin main line.
Hours : 10:00 to 16:00, (9:00 to 17:00 in spring and autumn)
Admission : 400 yen