Home to more than 1,600 Buddhist temples, Kyoto offers much to discover; to help narrow down your choice, here are some of its most beautiful temples worth visiting.
Kiyomizu-dera
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kiyomizu-dera or Kiyomizu Temple enjoys a stunning backdrop overlooking the city on Otowa Mountain. Around 12 minutes by car from Park Hotel Kyoto, this site features a terrace in the Main Hall where one can take in the magical vistas, while below, the Otowa-no-taki waterfall adds to the temple’s charm.
Kinkaku-ji
Also known as the Golden Pavilion, Kinkaku-ji is amongst the most picturesque attractions in Kyoto. Those staying at a hotel near Karasuma Oike Station can easily reach this Zen Buddhist temple with its characteristic gold leaf adorning; it lies beside a large pond and the grounds here are equally impressive especially when fall foliage is on display.
Saiho-ji
Located in the Matsuo area, Saiho-ji (or Kokedera) is a Rinzai Zen Buddhist temple that is well-known for its moss garden; you will need to book in advance however to enter. Also referred to as the “moss temple”, this is another UNESCO World Heritage Site and features more than 120 varieties of moss creating other-worldly natural landscapes.
Tofuku-ji
Amongst the biggest temples in Kyoto, Tofuku-ji is a Zen Buddhist temple that originally dates to the 13th century and is home to idyllic grounds with diverse garden styles featuring ponds and rock gardens. The best time to visit is in autumn when the leaves change colour and the views of and from Tsutenkyo Bridge are truly spellbinding.
