Ruriko-in Temple

Beautiful autumn leaves reflected on the tabletop

Known for the beautiful autumn leaves reflected on the polished floors and tables, the temple is visited by many people when it is open to the public in spring and fall.

Originally built as a villa between the late Taisho and Showa eras, it is a 12,000 tsubo (about 1,860 square meters) site with a sukiya-style building and a Japanese garden.

Later, the villa was converted into the Kizuru-tei, a luxury ryokan (Japanese-style inn), which later became a temple in 2005.

Normally closed to the public, the temple is open to the public in spring and fall, and has become famous for the sight of maple trees in the garden reflected on the top board of a desk on the second floor of the shoin.

Tranquility with a Japanese atmosphere

More than 100 varieties of maple trees are planted on the temple grounds, creating a colorful scene in autumn.

In spring, too, dozens of moss carpets, Nishikigoi carp swimming in the pond, a pond garden with stones and water depicting a dragon climbing to the heavens, and green maple trees in the fresh green of spring, all offer a relaxing view of the Japanese atmosphere.

Famous Architecture and Garden

The sukiya-style building was designed by Tonoji Nakamura, who was honored as a modern master builder, and the garden with its natural setting is said to have been created by the family of Toemon Sano, a renowned gardener.

Information

Name
Ruriko-in Temple
瑠璃光院
Link
Official Site
Address
55 Higashiyama, Kamikoya, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
Hours of operation

10:00-17:00

Closed

Open every day during the open period

Open period
Open to the public in spring (April - June) and fall (October - December)

Admission fee

Entrance fee:
Adults 2,000 yen
Child: 1,000 yen (junior high school students and older with student ID)
*Free admission for elementary school students and preschool children

Parking lot
None
Access

Keihan Railway “Demachiyanagi” station (transfer) Eizan Railway “Yase Hieizamaguchi” station, 13 minutes walk

Area
Kyoto Kifune, Kurama, Ohara
Category
Shrines, Temples, Churches Temples Autumn leaves

Gallery

Kifune, Kurama, Ohara

Kyoto

Category

Area