Temple · Takao
Jingo-ji Temple 神護寺
A mountain temple in Takao reached by a long stone stairway, with a Kondo hall and a famous valley view where you can throw kawarake discs.
Hours9:00-16:00
ClosedOpen daily
PriceAdult: ¥1,000
Elementary: ¥500
Elementary: ¥500
Getting thereJR Bus (Takao-Keihoku Line) from Kyoto Station, about 50 min to Takao, then 20 min walk with steps
Time needed1.5-2 hours
Best timeNovember for autumn colour; early summer greenery
Address5 Umegahata Takao-cho, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto 616-8292
Websitejingoji.or.jp
About
Jingo-ji is one of Kyoto's oldest temples, closely linked with Kukai and the early history of Shingon Buddhism. It sits high above the Kiyotaki River in the Takao hills, and the climb up the stone steps is part of the visit. The Kondo hall holds a revered Yakushi Nyorai. A clifftop spot lets visitors throw small clay discs into the valley for luck.
Highlights
- Long stone approach through the forest
- Kondo main hall
- Kawarake disc throwing over the valley
- Autumn maples of Takao
Tips
- Wear good shoes for the steps
- The Takao area also includes Saimyo-ji and Kozan-ji; buses run infrequently
Open in Google Maps · Info checked 2026-10-10
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