Tofuku-ji temple gardens
Kyoto · Temple
60–120 min
🚶 10 10 min walk from Tofukuji Station
¥¥
Insider Tip
The Tsutenkyo Bridge view of autumn maples is iconic but extremely crowded in November. The Hojo garden by Shigemori Mirei is the real treasure.
JEMS Tip
JEMS times your visit for peak autumn foliage and provides a route through the lesser-known sub-temples with their own stunning gardens.
About
Tofuku-ji features one of Kyoto's finest zen gardens, designed by Mirei Shigemori in 1939. The modern geometric moss-and-stone garden is a masterpiece. In autumn, the Tsutenkyo bridge offers breathtaking views of a valley of maples.
Crowd Avoidance
Visit at opening (9am) or after 3pm. During peak autumn (mid-November), arrive before 8:30am. Spring and summer are peaceful.
Getting There
JR Nara Line or Keihan Line to Tofukuji Station. Walk 10 minutes south to the temple.
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