Eikandō Temple

永観堂禅林寺

A large temple said to have been constructed by Priest Kūkai. The temple features a unique statue of Amida Buddha, Mikaeri Amida, that looks to the right rather than facing forward; there's a charming legend attached to it. The temple grounds also feature a Tahōtō pagoda and a lake. The temple is particularly pleasant in the autumn when the leaves are changing (and the admission fee jumps to ¥1000; also, during the peak leaf season, the grounds close at 16:00 and reopen at 17:00 for an additional viewing session (¥900) where the trees, buildings and paths are illuminated by hundreds of lights). Matcha sets under the trees, on the benches set off the main path, ¥500.

• outdoors

Address

48 Eikandō-chō, Sakyō-ku

Getting there

nearest bus stop: Nanzenji/Eikando-michi, route 5

Hours

Daily 09:00–17:00

Price

Regular admission ¥600

Website

eikando.or.jp (opens in a new tab)