A Quiet Bamboo Sanctuary Steps from Kyoto’s Famous Moss Temple

Jizō-in（地蔵院） is a hidden gem in Kyoto’s Arashiyama area. Also known as Take-no-tera (Bamboo Temple), it’s just a short walk from Saihō-ji, the famous moss temple. Yet, unlike its popular neighbor, Jizō-in remains peaceful and uncrowded. That makes it perfect for quiet contemplation and nature lovers.

The temple was founded in 1367 by Hosokawa Yoriyuki, with Musō Soseki as the first head priest. It belongs to the Rinzai school of Zen Buddhism. Like many historic sites in Kyoto, Jizō-in was destroyed during the Ōnin War (1467–1477) but rebuilt in the Edo period.

As you walk toward the temple, you pass through a lush bamboo grove. This path sets the mood—tranquil and slightly mysterious. The quiet setting feels like stepping into another world.

Inside, the main hall opens to a charming Zen garden. It’s small but full of character. You’ll spot several stone Jizō statues, protectors of children and travelers. With few visitors, the atmosphere is perfect for sitting on the tatami floor, sipping green tea, and enjoying the view.

Though modest in size, Jizō-in offers a rich, serene experience. Whether you come for the history, the bamboo, or the peaceful ambiance, this temple is a must-visit for those looking to escape the crowds.

Do you want a garden guide about Jizo-in?

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Gallery

  • Bamboo path leading to Jizō-in Temple
  • Jizō-in Temple
  • View of the path leading to Jizō-in Temple
  • Bamboo path leading to Jizō-in Temple
  • View of the path leading to Jizō-in Temple

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    Directions

    How to get to the garden

    Jizō-in is situated close to Saihō-ji, the moss temple, in the picturesque Arashiyama mountains to the west of Kyoto. Although you need to change trains, it is not very complicated to get there. First get to Katsura station by taking the Hankyu Kyoto line. In Katsura, change to the cute trains of the Hankyu Arashiyama line to get to Matsu-o station. From there, you can take bus 78 to get to Koke-dera. After that, it is only a short walk to the temple. You can also go directly from Kyoto station with bus 28 until Matsuo-Taisha-mae and walk around 15 min in southern direction. From the Sanjō station of the Keihan line, you can take bus 63 to the final stop ‘Koke-dera’.

    View Google Map (Google Website)

    Address

    • JP: 〒615-8285 京都府京都市西京区山田北ノ町23 Tel: 075-391-3631
    • EN: 23, Yamada Kitanocho, Nishikyo-ku Kyoto-shi, Kyoto, 615-8285, Japan 

    Official Website

    Opening times

    9:00-4:00pm (gates close at 4:30pm)

    Closed on:

    • Mondays and Thursdays
    • August 1st, 14th, and 15th

    Admission fee

    • Adults: 500 yen
    • Elementary, Junior High and High School Students: 300
    • People with disabilities: 100 yen

    Facilities & Accessibility

    • Restroom available

    • Small parking lot nearby

    • Some seating areas inside temple

    • Not wheelchair accessible (steps and uneven paths)

    Best time to visit

    Autumn (late October–November): Best for golden and red foliage in contrast with the green bamboo.

    Map

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