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Eikando Zenrinji 永観堂禅林寺

Checked October 2026 · next check January 2027 · 1 post since 2012

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Visiting Eikando Zenrinji today

  • What it is: The head temple of the Seizan branch of Jodo-shu, famous for its autumn foliage and for the Mikaeri Amida, a statue of Amida Buddha that looks back over its shoulder. The compound also has a Tahoto pagoda.
  • Getting there: About 15 minutes on foot from Keage Station on the Tozai subway line. From JR Kyoto Station or Keihan Sanjo Station, take city bus No. 5 to Nanzenji Eikando-michi, then walk about 3 minutes.
  • Admission and hours: Open daily, reception 9:00-16:00, closing at 17:00. Regular admission is ¥1,000 for adults, ¥600 for junior and senior high school students and ¥200 for elementary school children.
  • Autumn: The autumn treasure exhibition runs 11 November-6 December in 2026, with adult admission of ¥1,500. The evening illumination (Amida Hall and garden) runs 20 November-6 December, 17:30-20:30 reception, closing at 21:00, ¥1,000 on a separate ticket.
  • Tip: The temple says the Tahoto may close because of crowds or bad weather during the autumn period, so do not count on getting up to it. Mid-to-late November is the usual time for the leaves.
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Autumn leaves, mid-to-late November, with evening illumination

Checked against: Guide to visiting Eikando (admission, hours, autumn exhibition and light-up) - Eikando official site · Access to Eikando - Eikando official site · Eikan-do Temple (Zenrin-ji Temple) - Kyoto City Official Travel Guide. Check opening times and prices before you go.

Eikando Zenrinji on Shibuya246

Photos and stories from our visits, as they were written at the time.

Outdoors & Sport

Eikando in Autumn

Wanting to take some photos of the Autumn colors, I visited Nanzenji and Eikando at the beginning of the week. The orange and red colors were amazing. The…