SIGHTSEEING

Exploring the Tranquil Otagi Nenbutsu-ji: A Hidden Gem in Kyoto’s Foothills

2023.10.23

Nestled at the base of Mount Atago, a short distance from the heart of Kyoto, lies Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple. This temple serves as the gateway to Atago Shrine and marks the starting point of the Sagano Scenic Tour.

The temple as we know it today was relocated to its current site during the Taisho era, but its history dates back to the Nara period. Surrounded by lush greenery, this ancient temple hides numerous charms waiting to be discovered.

1,200 Rakan Statues

Despite facing adversities, including typhoon damage in the post-war era, Otagi Nenbutsu-ji has persevered and undergone reconstruction starting from 1955. In 1981, the “Showa Era Rakan Carving” project was initiated, allowing worshippers to carve and dedicate Rakan statues. Since then, over 1,200 statues have been dedicated to the temple.

These expressive statues have become synonymous with Otagi Nenbutsu-ji, offering a sense of peace and tranquility to visitors.

Surrounding Tourist Attractions

The temple is located on the approach to Atago Shrine in Sagano, a popular walking trail area in the Ukyo Ward of Kyoto, on the southern side of Mount Atago. Despite being a bit removed from the city center, Sagano is home to numerous temples, shrines, and tourist attractions.

Highlights include Atago Shrine, known for its belief that a visit before the age of three ensures a life free from fires; Arashiyama to the south of the temple; Tenryu-ji Temple, a World Heritage Site closely connected to Emperor Go-Daigo and the Ashikaga shogunate; and Nonomiya Shrine, famous for its matchmaking blessings.

With train access to the Sagano-Arashiyama area, getting there is a breeze, allowing visitors to enjoy the tranquil and lush greenery that has remained unchanged since the Muromachi period.

How to Get to Otagi Nenbutsu-ji

Here’s how you can get to Otagi Nenbutsu-ji. The nearest stations are JR Saga-Arashiyama Station, Hankyu Saga Station, and Arashiyama Station on the tram line. Be mindful that it’s a long uphill walk from these stations, taking about an hour on foot. Therefore, taking a taxi is recommended. From JR Saga-Arashiyama Station, it should cost around 1,000 yen to reach the temple.

Visiting Hours: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Admission Fee: 300 yen (Free for elementary and junior high school students)

[Google Map]

Official Website: https://www.otagiji.com/

Enjoy a serene experience at Otagi Nenbutsu-ji and discover the historical and cultural richness that this hidden gem in Kyoto has to offer.