Painted ceiling temple with heart window
Category

Culture

Price

$

Message from Matt Guy

A wonderful lesser visited temple great for some pretty photos. I enjoyed lying on the tatami floor and looking at the beautiful ceiling! Take your time as you look through the pictures as each one is unique.

Description

Shoju-in Temple, also known as Furin-ji, is a serene and historic temple located in Ujitawara, Kyoto. Built around 800 years ago, this temple is home to a stunning eleven-faced Kannon statue and a beautiful heart-shaped window known as the "Window of Happiness." Visitors can enjoy over 2,000 wind chimes in the summer and participate in activities like bracelet-beading and yoga classes.

Access

Shoju-in Temple, also known as Furin-ji, is located in Ujitawara-cho, Kyoto Prefecture. Due to its rural setting, accessing the temple requires some planning. Here are the common methods to reach Shoju-in:

  1. By Train and Bus:

    • Train: From Kyoto Station, take the JR Nara Line to Uji Station.

    • Bus: From Uji Station, board the Keihan Uji Bus bound for Okuyamada and get off at the "Okuyamada" bus stop. From there, it's approximately a 16-minute walk to the temple.

      Zekkei Japan

  2. By Train and Taxi:

    • Train: From Kyoto Station, take the JR Nara Line to Uji Station.

    • Taxi: From Uji Station, a taxi ride to Shoju-in takes about 30 minutes.

      Kyoto Tourism

  3. By Car:

    • Route: From Osaka, take the Meishin Highway to Oyamazaki Junction, switch to the Keiji By-Pass, exit at Ujinishi Interchange, and continue for about 30 minutes. Alternatively, take the Daini Keihan Road, exit at Hirakata Gakken Interchange, and continue for about 40 minutes.

      Kyoto Tourism

Additional Tips:

  • Bus Schedule: Community buses in the area have limited runs, so it's essential to check the latest schedules in advance.

  • Taxi Availability: Taxis may not be readily available at Uji Station, especially during peak tourist seasons, so planning ahead is advisable.

  • Temple Hours: Shoju-in Temple is open from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (last admission at 4:00 p.m.)

Want to see more?

I have created curated maps and itineraries for travellers that want to travel like me.

See all 159 things to do