Jojakkoji Temple
Located on the slopes of Mount Ogura in Arashiyama, Jojakkoji Temple makes for a lovely visit if you have the time after you visit more popular spots in Arashiyama like Tenryu-ji Temple and Iwatayama Monkey Park.
Dating back to the late 1500s / early 1600s, Jojakko-ji Temple is a Nichiren temple known as “the temple with no walls.” It was founded by Gokuin Nichisen (also called Nisshin), the 16th chief priest of Honkoku-ji.
Fall is an especially scenic time to visit Jojakko-ji Temple, because during peak foliage season the 200+ maple trees on the grounds put on a brilliant show of color.
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But it is also a serene spot at other times of the year. Its moss-covered garden and tranquil ambience make for a nice spell of restful enjoyment in a hectic sightseeing itinerary.
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What to See and Do at the Jojakko-ji Temple
Walk through the Niomon Gate
The Niomon Gate to Jojakkoji Temple is a unique thatched gate that makes for great photos.
The Niomon Gate was transferred from the south gate of the guest hall of Honkoku-ji. The guardians of this gate are said to have been created by master sculptor Unkei.
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Visit the Main Hall
Climb up the steps from the Niomon Gate to arrive at the main hall of Jojakkuji Temple.
The main hall dates back to the Keicho era (1596-1615), and was created by relocating the guest hall of Fushimi Momoyama Castle.
The principal image is that of Myoken, a deification of the North Star. He is a Bodhisattva.
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Admire the Gorgeous Pagoda
The pagoda is the most significant feature of Jojakkoji Temple.
Dating back to the earlier half of the 17th century, the Jojakkoji Temple pagoda has been deemed an “important cultural property” by the Japanese government.
Built in the Momoyama style (late 1500s to early 1600s), the pagoda has a viewing gallery that you access by climbing stairs from the main hall.
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Stroll the Serene Garden
The grounds of Jojakkoji Temple are fairly large and a must-stroll for nature lovers.
The well-maintained gardens feature a lot of green moss and over 200 maples. Strategically placed architectural elements offer more interest.
In the spring and summer, the gardens are a serene green, making for a restful wander. In the fall, the vibrant reds of maple trees make Jojakkuji a popular leaf-peeping destination.
In the winter, a snow covering sometimes offers a breathtakingly still ambience.
The grounds also house the Kadokura Historical Museum, with exhibits relating to the wealthy Kadokura family, patrons of the temple.
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Enjoy the Views
The viewing area of the pagoda of the Jojakkuji Temple offers expansive views of the surrounding landscape.
You also get nice views of the Mount Ogura and Arashiyama area from various points on the grounds of the temple, since the temple is built at an elevation.
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Jojakkoji Temple Access
You can walk from the Saga Arashiyama Station to Jojakko-ji Temple in about 18 minutes (see map).
The temple is also an 18-minute walk from the Randen Arashiyama Station, and about a 30-minute walk from the Hankyu Arashiyama Station.
The address for Jojakkoji Temple is 3 Ogura-cho, Saga-Ogurayama, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto.
You can arrive by car as well, although parking is limited to five cars. Visitors also arrive by taxi in the fall, to enjoy the fall foliage.
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Jojakkoji Temple Hours
The Jojakko-ji Temple is open daily from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m., with last entry at 4.30 p.m.
Jojakko-ji Temple Entrance Fee
There is an entrance fee of 500 yen (USD 3.25) per person for the Jojakkoji Temple. You can buy tickets at the entrance to the temple on the day of your visit.
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