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Ninna-ji Temple
Ninna-ji Temple was founded in 888 and is a Buddhist temple in northeast Kyoto that is closely associated with the imperial family of Japan.
It is the main temple of the Omuro school of the Shingon sect of Japanese Buddhism. There are many Omuro School temples throughout Japan and many priests from these temples come to Ninna-ji to attend Buddhist services and to study and train in the main temple of their sect.
Ninna-ji Temple is known not only for the building itself, but also for its prime location as a viewpoint for the late cherry blossom. He also has a beautiful Japanese garden from which you can see the famous five-story pagoda.
Behind Ninna-ji Temple is the Omuro Pilgrimage, a shorter version of the Shikoku pilgrimage. This route can be covered in about two hours on foot, but is believed to have the same meaning as the Shikoku pilgrimage.
Overview
Address
33 Omuroouchi, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8092 (Map) (Directions)Hours
9:00 - 17:00 Open NowOpening Hours
Monday
9:00 - 17:00
Tuesday
9:00 - 17:00
Wednesday
9:00 - 17:00
Thursday
9:00 - 17:00
Friday
9:00 - 17:00
Saturday
9:00 - 17:00
Sunday
9:00 - 17:00
Holidays
9:00 - 17:00
Price
¥500
Website
Highlights
Omuro Cherry Blossom
The Omuro variety of cherry blossom trees are loved for their uniquely short stature as well as their late-blooming nature. The Omuro trees only grow up to a height of around 2-3 metres tall, resulting in some people calling them “dwarf cherry trees”. Alas, their short stature only adds to their charm — as many flock to Ninna-ji to savor the last views of the sakura for the year.
Goten
The Goten building used to serve as a place of residence for the head priest. It was designed to resemble an imperial palace, accented by beautifully-painted sliding doors and the surrounding pond and traditional garden. From the Goten’s garden, you can take in the picturesque view of the five-storied pagoda set amongst lush foliage and the crystal clear pond.
General Amenities
- Free guides/pamphlets
- Information Counter
What's unique
- UNESCO World Heritage Site
Access
5-minute walk from Omuro Ninnaji Station (Keifuku Kitano Line) 30-minute bus ride from Kyoto Station (JR bus)
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