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A temple open for special viewings only twice a year, in spring and fall, offering spectacular scenery created by nature.
This secluded temple stands in Yase-Ohara, an area cherished by aristocrats and samurai since the Heian period. Usually closed to the public, it opens for special viewings twice a year in spring and fall. With more than 100 varieties of maple trees growing on its grounds, it is one of Kyoto’s premier fall foliage destinations. The scenery is exceptional when the entire area turns brilliant red, while the fresh green maples are also well worth seeing.
The site was originally a retreat belonging to Sanjo Sanetomi, a court noble of the Meiji period. Extensive renovations carried out from the late Taisho period to the early Showa period created a sukiya-style building with a total floor area of approximately 8,500 square feet and three gardens that incorporate the surrounding natural scenery, all set within grounds spanning approximately 9.8 acres. Each garden has its own distinctive character: Ruri Garden, the main garden, represents the Pure Land shining in a lapis lazuli hue; Yamaroji Garden is covered in deep green moss; and Garyo Garden is a pond garden where water and stones depict a dragon ascending to the heavens.
The view of Ruri Garden from the shoin is particularly renowned. From the second-floor room, fresh greenery in spring and colorful foliage in fall fill the windows, creating a spectacular sight. The maple trees reflected on the desktop produce an enchanting space that seems to envelop visitors in foliage. Another highlight is the “floor maple” view, in which the scenery is reflected on the beautifully polished, lacquered corridor floor.
The Yase kama-buro, considered the prototype of the Japanese steam bath, is also worth seeing. According to legend, during the Jinshin War of 672, Prince Oama used this steam bath to heal a back wound caused by an arrow.
The temple also houses numerous treasures, including a Muromachi-period painting of the Amida Triad descending to welcome the faithful and an Edo-period folding screen depicting flowers and plants. Several are displayed during each special viewing period. Take your time appreciating them along with the building and gardens.
Ruri Garden viewed from the shoin
The grounds are filled with maple trees
Kikakutei, a tea room named by Sanjo Sanetomi
Some reviews are AI-translated.
A popular spot during fall foliage season 🍁, although we didn’t make it for the fall colors 🍁
In early autumn, we took the Eizan train up the mountain. The scenery and air along the way were so refreshing. Although the crowds made it hard to fully appreciate the beautiful changes in light at the mirrored glass table area 😊, the photo opportunities and the Japanese garden aesthetics with lush green moss along the way made us forget all our worries! Worth a visit.
The fall foliage at Rurikoin is truly as beautiful as a painting!
The red, orange, and yellow maple leaves reflected on the polished tabletop make the whole scene look like it was carefully painted. Every photo turns out beautiful! Sitting inside and quietly admiring the leaves, it felt like time slowed down. Seeing it in person was truly stunning, and it was one of the most memorable places for fall foliage in Kyoto.
It's not open every day, and during the autumn leaves season it gets super crowded. You can sit down, have some tea, and slowly enjoy the countryside views.
During the fall foliage season, there are so many people that you have to line up to get in. Inside the temple, everything is spotless, and you can even catch beautiful reflections.
