Temple · Higashiyama / Tofukuji
Sennyu-ji Temple 泉涌寺
The imperial family's ancestral temple, set in a wooded valley below Higashiyama, with a calm, uncrowded atmosphere.
HoursMar-Nov 9:00-16:30 (gate closes 17:00); Dec-Feb 9:00-16:00 (gate closes 16:30)
ClosedOpen daily; Shinshoden treasure hall closed on the 4th Monday of each month
PriceAdult (junior high and up): ¥500
Child (elementary): ¥300
Child (elementary): ¥300
Getting thereTofukuji Station (JR Nara Line / Keihan), 20 min walk; or city bus 208 to Sennyuji-michi, then 15 min walk
Time needed1-1.5 hours
Best timeAutumn foliage in November; weekday mornings are very quiet
Address27 Sennyuji Yamanouchi-cho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto 605-0977
Websitemitera.org
About
Sennyu-ji, known as Mitera (the Honourable Temple), has long been the funerary temple of the imperial family, and many emperors are buried behind its halls. The main buildings sit at the bottom of a forested bowl, reached down a long approach. Sub-temples such as Unryu-in line the approach. It is a quiet alternative to busier temples nearby.
Highlights
- Butsuden hall below the approach
- Imperial mausoleums behind the main halls
- Yokihi Kannon hall
- Sub-temples along the wooded approach
Tips
- Combine with Tofuku-ji, about 20 minutes away on foot
- Some buildings close during ceremonies; check the temple's monthly calendar
Open in Google Maps · Info checked 2026-10-10
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