Reikan-ji Temple
霊鑑寺
A normally closed imperial convent temple (monzeki) on the Philosopher's Path that opens only during spring (camellia season) and autumn (maple season). Known for its exceptional collection of over 100 camellia varieties, some over 300 years old, and intimate imperial-style garden.
Key Architectural & Sacred Highlights
- 100+ camellia varieties (some 300+ years old)
- Imperial convent atmosphere (monzeki temple)
- Limited opening makes visits special
- Intimate garden not designed for mass tourism
- On the Philosopher's Path
- Rare flowers not found elsewhere in Kyoto
📍 How to Get There
Nearest Station
Bus stop Ginkakuji-michi (Bus 5, 17, 100)
Step-by-Step Directions
- 1 From Ginkaku-ji: 5 minute walk south along Philosopher's Path
- 2 From Kyoto Station: Bus 5 or 100 to Ginkakuji-michi
- 3 Open ONLY during special viewings (usually spring Mar-Apr, autumn Nov)
- 4 Check opening dates before visiting - closed most of year
Live Municipal Bus Approach GTFS-RT
Nearest Stop: Ginkakuji-michi (銀閣寺道) • ~8 min walk
Footwear & Accessibility Radar
Shoe Removal for Camellia Monzeki Temple
Special seasonal openings require clean socks on heritage tatami.
Eastern hillside steps ascending from the Philosopher Path.
Location & Maps
🗺️ Interactive map - zoom and pan to explore
Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors
35.021389 135.794444 💡 Tip: "View Location" shows the temple on the map. "Get Directions" navigates from your current position.
Best Time to Visit
Late March to mid-April for over 100 camellia varieties in bloom (some trees 300+ years old). Also opens in mid-November for autumn foliage. Check exact dates each year as they vary.
Contact & Info
12 Shikano Shita-cho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto 606-8422
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Nearby Temples & Shrines
These sacred sites are closest to Reikan-ji Temple and easy to combine in a single visit.
Anraku-ji Temple
安楽寺
500 yen (when open) · 20-30 minutes
Honen-in Temple
法然院
Free admission (donations accepted) · 30-45 minutes
Philosopher's Path
哲学の道
Free · 30-45 minutes walking only, 1.5-2 hours with stops
Shinnyo-do Temple
真如堂
Free (garden areas require 500 yen November only) · 30-45 minutes
Eikan-do Zenrin-ji
永観堂禅林寺
600 yen regular season, 1,000 yen peak autumn (Nov 7-30), illuminations 600 yen additional · 1-1.5 hours (2-3 hours in November due to crowds and wanting to savor views)
Okazaki Shrine
岡崎神社
Free · 15-20 minutes