Rurikō-in Temple Kyoto Guide: A Scenic Retreat in Yase
Rurikō-in Temple (Rurikō-in) is the Kyoto head temple of the Jōdo Shinshū Buddhist temple “Muryōju-zan Kōmyō-ji,” located in Kamitakano Higashiyama, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto.
Set at the foot of Mount Hiei in the Yase area, the grounds span about 12,000 tsubo, with sukiya-style architecture and gardens spread throughout.
Rurikō-in is not open for regular visits outside its limited-time special openings, but it holds special opening periods three times a year—spring, summer, and autumn—when the gardens and the shoin (study hall) views are made public.
In particular, the scene where garden maples reflect on the lacquered desk on the second floor of the shoin has gone viral on social media, making it a must-visit Kyoto photo spot that attracts many visitors.
How to Get to Rurikō-in: Access by Public Transport
Getting to Rurikō-in by public transportation is convenient.
From Kyoto Station, take the Karasuma Subway Line to Kokusaikaikan Station, then ride a Kyoto Bus from Kokusaikaikan-ekimae to the “Yase-ekimae” bus stop.
From Demachiyanagi Station, take the Eizan Railway to “Yase-Hieizan-guchi Station,” then walk to Rurikō-in from the station.
As a guide, it’s about a 12-minute walk from “Yase-Hieizan-guchi Station,” and about a 10-minute walk from the “Yase-ekimae” bus stop.
Note that Rurikō-in does not have its own parking lot, so public transportation is recommended.
During peak autumn foliage season, nearby roads can get congested, so using public transportation is the safer choice.
Top Things to See at Rurikō-in
Shoin 2F “Ruri-no-niwa” Garden Reflection View
The signature highlight of Rurikō-in is “Ruri-no-niwa,” viewed from the second floor of the shoin.
Maples are planted across a moss-covered garden, and the scenery reflects like a mirror on the lacquered desktop.
As a guide, in the spring fresh green maple season (mid-April to late May), vivid new greenery appears; in the autumn foliage season (mid- to late November), reds and yellows glow in the reflection—an almost painting-like scene.
“Ruri” refers to one of the Seven Treasures said to adorn the Pure Land, and the temple name is said to come from the way the entire garden seems to shine in a lapis-lazuli-like hue.
Gardens with Different Atmospheres
Within the grounds are gardens with distinct character, including “Ruri-no-niwa” and “Garyū-no-niwa.”
“Garyū-no-niwa” is a pond garden that expresses a dragon ascending to the heavens through water and stones, and it can be enjoyed at a relaxed pace from the shoin’s first-floor veranda.
Because the gardens change with the seasons, each visit brings a new discovery.
Sutra Copying Experience (Shakyō)
At Rurikō-in, a sutra copying experience (shakyō) may be available during your visit.
Details and how to participate can vary depending on the special opening period, so follow the on-site guidance.
Your completed sutra may be placed at the main hall.
Tea House “Kikakutei” and the Kama Bath
On the temple grounds is the historic tea house “Kikakutei Tea House” (Kikakutei), named by Sanjō Sanetomi, who served as Daijō-daijin (Chancellor of the Realm) in the Meiji government.
Yase has been known since the Asuka period as a “village of rest,” and you can also view the “kama bath” (kama-buro), said to have soothed the wounds of Prince Ōama (later Emperor Tenmu) after he was injured in the Jinshin War.
Rurikō-in Visiting Info: Admission Fee, Opening Hours & Special Opening Dates
Special Opening Periods and Hours
Rurikō-in holds special opening periods three times a year—spring, summer, and autumn.
Visiting hours are 10:00–17:00 (last admission 16:30).
Since the schedule varies by year, be sure to check the official website before visiting.
As a guide, it is typically open in spring from mid-April to late May, in summer from early July to mid-August, and in autumn from early October to mid-December.
Admission Fee
Admission is 2,000 yen for adults.
Junior high and high school students pay 1,000 yen with a student ID; per 1 paying adult, 1 elementary school child or preschooler is free (from the second child, 1,000 yen per child).
Payment is cash only, so prepare in advance.
Tips to Avoid Crowds
Autumn foliage season (especially mid- to late November) can be very crowded, and lines may form before the gates open.
During some parts of the autumn opening, advance reservations may be required, so checking the official website for reservation requirements is recommended.
Spring and summer special openings are generally less crowded, and there may be periods when you can visit without reservations.
Weekday mornings and the later afternoon hours tend to be calmer for viewing.
Etiquette and Important Notes
- Photography inside the shoin is allowed, but tripods/monopods and commercial shoots are prohibited.
- To preserve the quiet atmosphere, please be mindful of your speaking volume.
- There are stone paths and steps in the gardens, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
- Group visits may be subject to specific conditions.
Summary
Rurikō-in is one of Kyoto’s most serene and beautiful hidden gems.
From spring fresh green maples to deep summer greens and vivid autumn foliage, each special opening season offers a different charm.
The dreamlike reflection on the shoin desk is an unforgettable Kyoto view once you’ve seen it.
Surrounded by natural beauty and calm, enjoy a special time that gently refreshes your mind.
