Joujuji Temple (Kyoto Prefecture) Complete Guide: Autumn Leaves and History at a Hidden Gem of the Obaku Sect
Joujuji Temple (浄住寺), located in the Sagano area of Nishi-kyoku Ward, Kyoto City, is a hidden gem of the Obaku sect (黄檗宗) known for its serene atmosphere and beautiful autumn foliage. Situated slightly away from the bustling Arashiyama area, it allows visitors to enjoy Kyoto’s history and nature in a peaceful setting. This article provides detailed information about Joujuji Temple’s history, highlights, visiting information, and access methods that you should know before visiting.
History and Origins of Joujuji Temple
Founding and Changes
The history of Joujuji Temple dates back to the early Heian period, specifically to the Jowa era (834-848). According to tradition, it was founded as a Tendai sect temple by Tsuneyasu-shinnou, a prince of Emperor Saga. Initially called “Jojuji Temple,” it was later renamed “Joujuji Temple.”
During the Kamakura period, the temple, which had fallen into decline, was revived by Hashimuro Sadatsugu (葉室定嗣), and it became the family temple of the Hashimuro clan. From this period onward, Joujuji Temple developed a deep connection with the Hashimuro family, and historic sites related to them remain in the temple grounds today.
Conversion to the Obaku Sect
In the middle of the Edo period, during the Genroku era (1688-1704), Joujuji Temple underwent a major turning point. When Tetsugyuu Douki (鉄牛道機), a high priest of the Obaku sect, became the head priest, the temple converted from the Tendai sect to the Obaku sect. Priest Tetsugyuu had served as the sixth chief priest of Manfukuji Temple (in Uji City) and was a renowned monk. Under his guidance, Joujuji Temple began a new chapter in its history as an Obaku sect temple.
The Obaku sect is a school of Zen Buddhism transmitted to Japan in the early Edo period by Yinyuan Longqi (隠元隆琦), who came from China. It is characterized by retaining the strong Zen influence of China’s Ming Dynasty, differing from the Rinzai and Soto sects.
Highlights of Joujuji Temple
Main Hall and Buddhist Statues
The main hall of Joujuji Temple is built in an architectural style that reflects the characteristics of the Obaku sect. The principal image is Shakyamuni Buddha, and other valuable Buddhist statues such as Manjushri Bodhisattva and Samantabhadra Bodhisattva are enshrined. Although the interior of the main hall is normally closed to the public, it may be possible to view it during special viewing periods.
In the garden in front of the main hall, carefully maintained pines and maples are arranged, allowing visitors to enjoy beautiful scenery throughout the seasons. Particularly during autumn foliage season, the entire temple grounds are painted in red and yellow, captivating all who visit.
The Abbot’s Quarters and Garden
The abbot’s quarters (the residence of the chief priest) at Joujuji Temple is a valuable building that conveys the Edo-period architectural style. From the abbot’s quarters, you can enjoy a view of a beautiful garden, with particularly spectacular views during the autumn foliage season.
The garden features elements of a pond-circuit garden style, creating a harmonious landscape with a small pond, stone arrangements, and moss-covered ground. Approximately 200 maples are planted throughout the garden, and in autumn, the entire temple grounds are colored with foliage. This garden has recently gained attention as a “hidden autumn foliage spot.”
The Founder’s Hall and Remains of Priest Tetsugyuu
Within the temple grounds stands the Founder’s Hall dedicated to Priest Tetsugyuu Douki, who made great efforts in the conversion to the Obaku sect. Historic sites and stone monuments related to Priest Tetsugyuu remain around the Founder’s Hall, allowing visitors to feel the temple’s history.
The Hashimuro Family Burial Ground
In one section of the temple grounds lies the burial ground of the Hashimuro family, who revived Joujuji Temple in the Kamakura period. The Hashimuro family descended from the Fujiwara Northern House and served successive imperial courts as a noble family. The burial ground, lined with five-tiered stone pagodas and treasure pagodas, is a historically valuable historic site.
Joujuji Temple as a Famous Autumn Foliage Spot
Foliage Season and Characteristics
Joujuji Temple has gained popularity in recent years as a hidden autumn foliage spot in Kyoto. The peak foliage season is typically from mid-November to early December, when approximately 200 maples paint the temple grounds in vibrant colors.
Compared to famous foliage spots such as Arashiyama and Tofukuji, there are fewer tourists, making it possible to enjoy the autumn leaves at a leisurely pace. The view of the foliage in the garden from the abbot’s quarters is particularly spectacular, with a beautiful gradient of red and yellow leaves.
Special Viewing During Foliage Season
During the foliage season, normally closed areas are sometimes opened for special viewing. It is recommended to check official information in advance before visiting. During special viewing periods, it may be possible to view the interior of the main hall and even parts of the garden that are normally off-limits.
Visiting Information
Viewing Hours and Admission Fee
- Viewing Hours: Normally 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Last admission 4:30 PM)
- ※Hours may change depending on the season and events
- Admission Fee: Adults ¥500, Middle and High School Students ¥300, Elementary School Students ¥200
- ※Fees may differ during special viewing periods
- Closed Days: Irregular closures (It is recommended to confirm in advance)
Notes on Visiting
Joujuji Temple currently functions as an active meditation practice center. Please keep the following points in mind when visiting:
- Keep quiet in the temple grounds so as not to interfere with monks’ practice
- Photography is permitted only in designated areas (photography is often prohibited inside the main hall)
- Do not touch the plants or buildings in the garden
- Please take all trash with you
Access Methods
By Public Transportation
By Train and Bus:
- Using Hankyu Railway:
- Get off at Hankyu Arashiyama Line’s “Kamikatsura Station” and walk about 12 minutes
- Alternatively, take a taxi from Hankyu Kyoto Line’s “Katsura Station” for about 10 minutes
- Using Kyoto City Bus:
- From JR Kyoto Station, take Kyoto City Bus Route 73 bound for “Kokudera/Suzumushi Temple”
- Get off at “Kokudera” bus stop and walk about 3 minutes
- Using JR:
- From JR “Kyoto Station” by taxi for about 25 minutes
- From JR Sagano Line “Sagaarashiyama Station” by taxi for about 10 minutes
By Car
- About 30 minutes from “Kyoto-Minami IC” on the Meishin Expressway
- About 15 minutes from “Kutsukake IC” on the Kyoto Longitudinal Expressway
Parking: Free parking lot in the temple grounds (limited spaces)
- During peak seasons such as foliage season, the lot may be full
- It is recommended to use nearby paid parking or public transportation
Nearby Attractions
Several attractions representing Kyoto are scattered around Joujuji Temple.
Jizoin Temple (Bamboo Temple)
Located about 5 minutes’ walk from Joujuji Temple, this Rinzai sect temple is known as the “Bamboo Temple” and features a beautiful bamboo grove and peaceful atmosphere. It is also known as the place where Zen Master Ikkyuu practiced during his youth.
Saihoji Temple (Moss Temple)
Saihoji Temple, registered as a World Heritage site, is located about 5 minutes’ walk from Joujuji Temple. Its garden covered with about 120 types of moss is famous as the “Moss Temple,” but advance reservation is required for viewing.
Suzumushi Temple (Kegon Temple)
Suzumushi Temple, famous for the sound of bell crickets heard year-round, is also within walking distance. The “Happiness Jizo” statue that is said to grant one wish is popular.
Arashiyama Area
About 10 minutes by car or 15 minutes by bus from Joujuji Temple is Arashiyama, Kyoto’s representative tourist destination. It has plenty of attractions including Togetsu Bridge, the Bamboo Grove Path, and Tenryu Temple.
Recommended Plans for Visiting Joujuji Temple
Half-Day Tour Plan
Morning:
- 9:00 AM Joujuji Temple viewing (approximately 1 hour)
- 10:30 AM Jizoin (Bamboo Temple) viewing (approximately 30 minutes)
- 11:30 AM Suzumushi Temple viewing (approximately 1 hour)
Afternoon:
- 1:00 PM Move to Arashiyama area, lunch
- 2:00 PM Arashiyama sightseeing (Togetsu Bridge, Bamboo Grove Path, etc.)
Recommended During Foliage Season
When visiting during foliage season, early morning viewing is recommended. Around 9:00 AM shortly after opening, it is relatively uncrowded, allowing you to enjoy the autumn leaves in a peaceful environment. As the afternoon progresses, more tourists arrive, so visiting Joujuji Temple in the morning and exploring surrounding temples in the afternoon is an efficient plan.
Annual Events at Joujuji Temple
Spring Events
- Spring Equinox Memorial Service (March): Memorial services for ancestors
- Flower Festival (April 8): Celebration of Buddha’s birthday
Fall Events
- Autumn Equinox Memorial Service (September): Memorial services for ancestors
- Special Autumn Foliage Viewing (Mid-November – Early December): Special viewing during foliage season
Other Events
- Zazen Sessions: Zazen meditation sessions are held periodically (advance confirmation required)
Understanding the Obaku Sect
Joujuji Temple, which belongs to the Obaku sect, has unique characteristics among Japan’s Zen sects.
Characteristics of the Obaku Sect
- Ming Dynasty Zen Style: Sutras are recited using Ming-era pronunciation (Chinese-style)
- Architectural Style: Characterized by Chinese-style temple layout and decoration
- Vegetarian Cuisine: A unique vegetarian cuisine culture called Putea cuisine
- Head Temple: Manfukuji Temple in Uji, Kyoto Prefecture is the head temple
Transmission to Japan
The Obaku sect was transmitted to Japan in 1654 by Yinyuan Longqi, who came from China. Priest Yinyuan is also known for introducing vegetables such as kidney beans, watermelons, and lotus roots to Japan.
Photography at Joujuji Temple
Photography Spots
Joujuji Temple has several recommended photography spots:
- Mountain Gate: The picturesque mountain gate is an iconic photography spot
- Garden View from the Abbot’s Quarters: Especially beautiful during foliage season
- Maple Tree Avenue: A tunnel-like landscape of autumn foliage
- Stone Steps and Foliage: The contrast between the stone steps and foliage is beautiful
Photography Etiquette
- Tripod use requires advance confirmation
- Be considerate of other visitors
- The interior of the main hall is often prohibited from photography, so always confirm
- Commercial photography requires advance permission
Voices from Visitors to Joujuji Temple
Many people who have visited Joujuji Temple are moved by its serene atmosphere and beautiful autumn foliage. As a “hidden gem” of Kyoto, it has many repeat visitors.
Particularly during foliage season, visitors comment that “you can appreciate the leaves more calmly than at famous foliage spots” and “the foliage in the garden is magnificent.” The unique atmosphere as a temple of the Obaku sect also captivates visitors.
Conclusion: The Appeal of Joujuji Temple
Joujuji Temple in Sagano, Kyoto, is an ancient temple where history spanning from the Heian period and the Zen spirit of the Obaku sect still breathe. It possesses many attractions including the beauty of autumn foliage painted by approximately 200 maples, the serene atmosphere of the temple grounds, and the historic value associated with the Hashimuro family.
Unlike famous tourist spots crowded with visitors, Joujuji Temple is a place where you can leisurely appreciate Kyoto’s history and nature, making it a temple worth visiting. The beauty is particularly striking during the foliage season.
When visiting Kyoto, be sure to visit Joujuji Temple and enjoy a quiet time and beautiful scenery. By visiting it along with nearby attractions such as Arashiyama and Moss Temple, you can enjoy more fulfilling Kyoto sightseeing.
By checking visiting information and transportation access in advance and respecting etiquette when visiting, you can fully experience the charm of Joujuji Temple. Spend a peaceful time at this historic Zen temple.
