When is the best time to visit Ninna-ji Temple?

The temple is particularly gorgeous during the fall when the autumn colors are present.

Ninna-ji Temple

Tourist AttractionPlace Of Worship

4.4

(7.5k)

Ninna-ji is a historic Buddhist temple in western Kyoto, founded in 888 by Emperor Uda and later reconstructed in the 17th century. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its traditional architecture, including a five-story pagoda and a former imperial residence. The temple complex is spacious, offering quiet gardens and a peaceful atmosphere.

Address

33 Omuroōuchi, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8092, Japan

Website

https://ninnaji.jp/

Opening Hours

9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Tue)

Phone

+81 75-461-1155

Explore nearby

Worth it?

Worth it if you appreciate historic temples and tranquil gardens

Skip if you're looking for intense autumn foliage or a quick, cheap visit

Reviewers consistently praise the peaceful and tranquil atmosphere, noting the spacious grounds allow for a leisurely visit.3 mentions

The temple offers a strong sense of cultural heritage with thoughtfully preserved historic buildings and grounds.1 mention

Some visitors found the combined special ticket for both areas to be pricey and not worth the cost, especially since special exhibitions may only be in Japanese.2 mentions

Part of the Japanese garden was under construction for some reviewers, yet full price was still charged.1 mention

Location

33 Omuroōuchi, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8092, Japan

Nearby places

Hojo Teien (Rock Garden)

7 min walk

Historic Site of Yoshida Kenkō

10 min walk

Kyoto Prefectural Insho-Domoto Museum of Fine Arts

15 min walk

南池跡

20 min walk

Highlights

The temple is famous for its late-blooming dwarf cherry trees, known as Omuro cherry trees, which grow to about 2–3 meters in height.

The Kondō, originally the main hall of the Kyoto Imperial Palace, was relocated here in the 17th century and is an important example of early modern Shinden-zukuri architecture.

Nearby eats

Katsu

Omurahouse Kinkakuji

Itadaki

Who it's for

Couples

Solo

Friends

No wheelchair entrance

Accessible restroom

Accessible parking

This temple is ideal for anyone seeking a strong sense of cultural heritage and a relaxed atmosphere away from the usual crowds. It's a great stop for those exploring the western side of Kyoto, especially if visiting nearby Kinkaku-ji.

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Stays Places Eats

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Places Eats

Know before you go

Wheelchair accessible parking and restrooms are available, but the entrance is not wheelchair accessible.

Nearby stays

See more stays

3-Star hotel

Hotel Excellence Enmachi Ekimae

2.2 km away

7.9(2.9k)

4-Star hotel

Sun Members Kyoto Saga

2.3 km away

8.1(140)

Nearby stays

Reviews

4.4

Very good

5 Reviews

Visitors generally find Ninna-ji Temple to be a beautiful and peaceful place with impressive gardens, a five-story pagoda, and a former imperial residence. Many highlight the tranquil atmosphere and spacious grounds, making it ideal for a relaxed visit. Some note that special exhibition tickets might not be worth the extra cost.

Fun facts

Ninna-ji was a monzeki temple, meaning it had deep ties to the Imperial family and its abbots were often descendants of Emperor Uda.

The temple was completely destroyed during the Ōnin War (1467-1477) but was later reconstructed in the 17th century.

The main hall, Kondō, was originally the Shishinden of the Kyoto Imperial Palace, built in 1613, and was relocated to the temple grounds during the Kan'ei era.