Visit Chion-in Temple with Japan's largest temple gate
Kyoto, Japan • 
Popular
Popular
Best months to visit
Apr, Nov
8°C – 20°C, spring is in full bloom; cherry blossoms create a picturesque scene, high crowds, peak season
8°C – 20°C, spring is in full bloom; cherry blossoms create a picturesque scene, high crowds, peak season
Walking required
Yes
The temple grounds have steep ramps and stairs, which may pose challenges for visitors with limited mobility. Assistance is recommended for wheelchair users.
The temple grounds have steep ramps and stairs, which may pose challenges for visitors with limited mobility. Assistance is recommended for wheelchair users.
Value for money
Medium
Admission is affordable, but crowds can detract from value.
Admission is affordable, but crowds can detract from value.
Highlights we curated for you
See what similar travellers think of this activity
C
Reviews from other travelers
Summarised by AI
Serene Beauty
Couples found the gardens and architecture incredibly romantic and peaceful. Perfect for reflection.
Truly Majestic
Visitors were awestruck by the Sanmon Gate's scale. A must-see for couples in Kyoto!
Highly Recommend
Couples appreciated the temple's serene atmosphere, ideal for a quiet, intimate visit.
Overcrowded Areas
Some couples found popular spots crowded, impacting the sense of tranquility, especially in peak season.
Limited Privacy
The large crowds, particularly near the main attractions, made intimate moments challenging for couples.
Strenuous Steps
Some couples with mobility concerns found navigating the stairs and slopes difficult.
How to book
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Hours of operation
Monday
09:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Tuesday
09:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Wednesday
09:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Thursday
09:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Friday
09:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Saturday
09:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Sunday
09:00 AM - 04:00 PM
In-depth experience
May contain spoilers
Watch curated videos from fellow travellers for a glimpse of what to expect.
Embark on a captivating virtual tour of the majestic Chion-in Temple.
Explore the captivating highlights of the Chion-in Temple!
When to visit
We've analysed user reviews and geographical data, and identified the best and worst months to visit.
Month
Crowd Level
Weather
Availability
Our recommendation
December
LOW
3-12°C
December is early winter, with chilly temperatures, dry days, and occasional light rain. Foliage is mostly gone, but the temple grounds are peaceful.
December is early winter, with chilly temperatures, dry days, and occasional light rain. Foliage is mostly gone, but the temple grounds are peaceful.
Open
No special restrictions; standard opening hours apply unless otherwise announced on the official website.
No special restrictions; standard opening hours apply unless otherwise announced on the official website.
Recommended
December offers a tranquil experience at Chion-in Temple with few crowds and cool, crisp weather. All facilities and local transport are fully operational.
December offers a tranquil experience at Chion-in Temple with few crowds and cool, crisp weather. All facilities and local transport are fully operational.
January
LOW
1-9°C
Cold winter weather, occasional snowfall, and dry air are common. Days are short and nights can be chilly.
Cold winter weather, occasional snowfall, and dry air are common. Days are short and nights can be chilly.
Open
No significant restrictions; temple is open regular hours except around New Year's when special events may affect access.
No significant restrictions; temple is open regular hours except around New Year's when special events may affect access.
Not recommended
January is off-peak, cold, and calm apart from possible New Year’s visitors. The temple operates normally, but visitors should prepare for cold weather.
January is off-peak, cold, and calm apart from possible New Year’s visitors. The temple operates normally, but visitors should prepare for cold weather.
February
LOW
1-10°C
Still cold, though slightly warmer than January. Occasional rain or sleet possible, but snow is rare.
Still cold, though slightly warmer than January. Occasional rain or sleet possible, but snow is rare.
Open
No significant restrictions; temple is open regular hours.
No significant restrictions; temple is open regular hours.
Not recommended
February remains quiet and cold, ideal for travelers seeking solitude and fewer crowds at Chion-in Temple.
February remains quiet and cold, ideal for travelers seeking solitude and fewer crowds at Chion-in Temple.
March
MEDIUM
4-14°C
Mild temperatures begin; early plum blossoms appear, and the weather is more comfortable, though rain is more frequent.
Mild temperatures begin; early plum blossoms appear, and the weather is more comfortable, though rain is more frequent.
Open
No significant restrictions; temple is open regular hours.
No significant restrictions; temple is open regular hours.
Recommended
March is pleasant with increasing warmth and early spring flowers. It is a popular time as cherry blossom season approaches.
March is pleasant with increasing warmth and early spring flowers. It is a popular time as cherry blossom season approaches.
How to get there
Bus
Recommended
Take Kyoto City Bus number 206 to the "Chion-in-mae" bus stop, a short walk from the temple. Other routes like 31, 46, 201, and 203 also stop there.
Metro
Recommended
Take the Tozai Line to Higashiyama Station. From there, it's an 8-10 minute walk to the temple.
Walking
Recommended
The temple is easily accessible on foot from nearby landmarks, such as Maruyama Park and Yasaka Shrine.
Bike
Cycling to Chion-in Temple is a pleasant option, with the area being part of popular cycling routes.
Car
Chion-in Temple is accessible by car via the main roads of Kyoto's Higashiyama district. Parking is limited.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Kyoto and can drop you off near the main entrance.
Additional info
Here's what you need to know about this experience
Mobility
Wheelchair Accessible
Walking Required
Stairs Present
Mobility Scooter Friendly
Ramps Available
Pregnancy
Suitable for pregnancy
Allowed during pregnancy
Driving
Driving License Required
Idp Required