Jojakko-ji Temple

The basics

In a popular city where getting away from crowds is challenging, the Jojakko-ji Temple offers a peaceful respite–unless you visit in November when it’s popular for its beautiful autumn leaves. A stairway leads to the temple gate and toward the temple’s main hall, where Buddhist images are enshrined. The 17th-century temple pagoda has been designated an Important Cultural Property by the Japanese government, and there are magnificent views of Kyoto from here. Travelers usually visit Jojakko-ji Temple while touring Arashiyama independently.

Things to know before you go

• There’s an entry fee for Jojakko-ji Temple.

• While visitors in wheelchairs are welcome at the temple, their tour will be limited as there are many steps throughout the grounds.

• Leave your tripods behind (even during the scenic fall season) as they’re not permitted within the grounds, and the reception won’t hold them for you.

How to get there

To reach Jojakko-ji Temple, you’ll first need to make it to the Arashiyama district from central Tokyo by train or bus and then walk to the temple. It’s a 15-minute walk from JR Saga-Arashiyama Station, a 20-minute walk from Keifuku Arashiyama Station, and a 35-minute walk from Hankyu Arashiyama Station.

When to get there

The temple is open daily from 9am until 5pm, with the last entry half an hour before closing. Jojakko-ji is usually relatively quiet, except during fall when throngs of visitors come to admire the colorful autumn leaves here. These typically appear from the second week of November and are at their best by mid-late November.

Visit the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

While in the Arashiyama district, don’t miss a visit to the Bamboo Grove, a lovely shaded bamboo forest where you can walk or take a cycle rickshaw ride. There’s only one path through the grove, so you don’t have to worry about getting lost. Entry to the grove is free and accessible 24 hours a day.