All Reviews of Jingoji Temple

Hidden in Kyoto's Mount Takao, Jingoji Temple is an ancient temple filled with a sense of history. Following the mountain path to the temple, you are surrounded by greenery and accompanied by the valley, and the natural scenery along the way feels especially pleasant. Jingoji Temple is also one of Kyoto's famous spots for fall foliage. In autumn, the entire mountain is covered in red and yellow, creating a stunning sight. This time, however, I visited in summer. Instead of the brilliant maple leaves, the mountain was covered in lush greenery. The forest felt fresh and peaceful, with a vitality unique to summer.

The climb requires some stamina, but the scenery along the way is beautiful, and walking through the forest is quite soothing. After arriving at the temple, you can feel even more strongly the traces of history and culture left here. The ancient buildings blend with the natural landscape, making it feel as though you are not just here to enjoy the scenery, but are also stepping into Kyoto's long history. If you enjoy natural scenery, hiking, walking, and Japanese history and culture, Jingoji Temple is well worth adding to your Kyoto itinerary.

In summer, the mountains are covered in greenery, while autumn brings spectacular red maple leaves. Each season has its own beauty.

I visited on the afternoon of March 30, 2025.

This is a serene place for prayer, with historic buildings that blend beautifully with nature. The wooden Shakyamuni Buddha statue, which Kukai himself once worshipped, is a true national treasure.

But what moved me most was the staff member who explained the temple's history. Their deep knowledge was impressive—on par with scholars or even Kukai himself. Their sincerity and compassion were remarkable, truly embodying the spirit of 'shining a light in a corner, which itself is a national treasure.' I am deeply grateful and full of respect.

Here, I found not just an ancient wooden statue, but a living example of the Buddha within a real person.