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Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple, located in the serene Ukyo Ward of Kyoto, Japan, is a hidden gem that draws visitors seeking tranquility and unique cultural experiences. This Buddhist temple, founded in the 8th century, is renowned for its stunning gardens and over 1,200 intricately carved Rakan statues, each with its own distinct personality. The peaceful atmosphere, combined with the beauty of the surrounding nature, makes it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Kyoto.

Nestled at 2-5 Sagatoriimoto Fukatanichō, Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple is easily accessible from the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, making it an ideal stop for those exploring this picturesque area. Visitors often enjoy a scenic 30-minute walk from the bamboo groves to the temple, surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of nature. Nearby attractions include:

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove - A stunning natural wonder with towering bamboo stalks.

Tenryu-ji Temple - A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its beautiful gardens.

Iwatayama Monkey Park - A fun and unique experience to see wild monkeys.

Visitors to Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple can enjoy a variety of activities that enhance their experience:

Explore the gardens filled with unique Rakan statues, each telling its own story.

Observe monks during prayer and experience the serene atmosphere.

Capture stunning photographs of the unique stone carvings and the surrounding nature.

Entry to Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple is affordable, with a fee of 500 Yen per person, payable in cash only. There is no need to book tickets in advance, making it easy for spontaneous visits. The temple is open year-round, providing a peaceful retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Kyoto.

Buddhist temple founded in the 8th century, featuring more than 1,200 stone heads on its grounds.

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Must come to see this temple! Beautiful gardens with hundreds of carved figures that each has a personality of their own. Haven't seen anything like them. We were lucky to see the beautiful foliage in November. There is also a practicing monk and you can observe prayers. So peaceful and serine.

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I visited Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple in the summer, and it was an incredibly calming and peaceful experience. The highlight of the temple is the 1,200 Rakan statues, each uniquely carved with its own expression and charm—truly mesmerizing!

Getting there was part of the experience. I took a bus and disembarked at Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, then enjoyed a serene 30-minute walk to the temple. The path was quiet and surrounded by nature, making it feel like a peaceful morning retreat.

The entry process was simple, with no need to book tickets in advance; I bought mine on-site for 500 Yen per person. For anyone looking for a serene atmosphere and a beautiful walk away from the crowds, I highly recommend visiting this hidden gem.

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What a Beautiful little temple to visit, as the stone carvings are the Most unique aspect of your visit here!
This temple area was Not on our itinerary But ever so glad our son brought us here.
The grounds itself are Not huge, and YES there are stairs to climb But nothing Too challenging. Again, the stone figures are genuinely the highlight,  and after visiting So Many other temples I didn't see any figures like these.
What adds to the uniqueness of the beautiful, moss covered statutes is that NO two are alike so taking photos are of them are wonderfully different.
Yes, the temple, though Not Very Big, one can go into if desired but again the surrounding grounds is where you will spend most of your time.
Beautiful and Peaceful the entrance fee is Cash Only and very reasonable. Worth the Visit. ENJOY!

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A very cool experience and amazing stone Buddha statues. We went early and got there soon after it opened. There were not many people so we were able to walk freely and see lots of different sculptures, each one different and soo unique. The grounds are not that big so recommend going early to avoid the crowds. We caught a bus back to the main town, which was just outside the temple. Nice stop

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places/ChIJi3CsmTmqAWAR0pV6QRGvt1c/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURQM04yaGRnEAE

The Rakan statues are beautiful and peculiar, you don’t find them in many temples and they give this temple an unique character.

The nature surrounding the temple is also very beautiful!

There was basically no line to enter and as always make sure you have coins to pay the entry fee. No cards

Visit Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple in Kyoto: Unique Rakan Statues

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Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple, a hidden gem nestled on the fringes of Kyoto, offers a captivating journey into the spiritual and artistic heritage of Japan. This stunning temple, established in the 8th century, features over 1,200 intricately carved stone statues, known as the rakan, each unique in its expression. The tranquil atmosphere, surrounded by lush greenery, invites visitors to explore its serene landscape and reflect on the beauty of nature and spirituality.

Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple

Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple, a hidden gem nestled on the fringes of Kyoto, offers a captivating journey into the spiritual and artistic heritage of Japan. This stunning temple, established in the 8th century, features over 1,200 intricately carved stone statues, known as the rakan, each unique in its expression. The temple grounds are adorned with lush greenery, creating a tranquil atmosphere that enhances the deep sense of peace that resides here.

Discover the serene Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple in Kyoto, home to 1,200 unique stone Buddhas. Experience tranquility and culture—plan your visit today!

Visit Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple in Kyoto: Unique Rakan Statues

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