Daikakuji Temple in Arashiyama, Kyoto is famous for the lake and moonlight of Osawa Pond, and is a perfect place to enjoy the moon during the Mid-Autumn Festival. In autumn, the poolside is decorated with red leaves and is set against the backdrop of ancient buildings, making it a quiet spot for viewing maples at night. Compared with other red leaf attractions in Arashiyama, Daikakuji Temple is unique because of its profound historical and political background, but there are relatively few tourists, providing a quiet atmosphere away from the crowds. This is also the filming location of the movie "Nie Yinniang", which is unforgettable. I personally highly recommend Dajue Temple, especially for those who like a quiet maple viewing trip.
Daikakuji Temple Transportation Guide: Convenient Routes from Kyoto Station
The official websites of major temples and shrines in Kyoto usually provide detailed transportation guidance, which can help tourists easily plan their itinerary whether they are taking city buses, subways, JR or private railways. Since most people will choose to stay near Kyoto Station, this article will use Kyoto Station as a starting point to sort out the transportation methods to Daikakuji Temple:
- Take the JR Sanin Line: Get off at Saga Arashiyama Station and walk for about 15 minutes to reach Daikakuji Temple.
- Kyoto Bus: Take bus No. 6 or 74 from the Karasumaguchi C84 stop in front of Kyoto Station and go directly to Daikakuji Temple.
- City bus: Take bus No. 3 from the Karasumaguchi D28 stop in front of Kyoto Station, which can also go directly to Daikakuji Temple.
I personally prefer taking the city bus because you don’t need to frequently enter and exit the subway station, and you can easily get to various attractions with a simple bus route map. However, the choice of transportation method still depends on personal needs. The above is for reference only.
▲ During the autumn maple viewing period, joint tickets will be issued between temples, and you can choose to buy them and visit together.
Daikakuji Temple: The Imperial Palace of Emperor Saga and the Holy Land of the Shingon Sect
Daikakuji Temple was founded by Emperor Saga in 876 AD (the 18th year of Tang Zhenguan). It was originally the emperor's palace. The architecture and garden design of the temple incorporate a strong Tang Dynasty style. After the death of Emperor Saga, the Imperial Palace was converted into a temple and became one of the most prestigious temples in the Shingon sect. The main hall is dedicated to Fudo Myoō, symbolizing protection and blessing. It is worth noting that Daikakuji Temple is also related to the Japanese literary masterpiece "The Tale of Genji". This place is mentioned in the book, making it a place of pilgrimage for book fans.
An interesting fact is that the movie "Assassin Nie Yinniang" also chose Dajue Temple as the main shooting scene. Director Hou Hsiao-hsien fell in love with Dajue Temple at first sight when he was looking for a location that matched the architectural style of the Tang Dynasty. During the filming process, the crew was particularly careful not to destroy every inch of vegetation in the temple, which shows their care. (Information source ►Profile of Xie Haimeng Nie Yinniang (4): Moss)
▲ In autumn, Saga Kiku developed accordingly.
▲ People born in each month correspond to different flowers.
▲ Do you know who these two characters are?If you know the answer, please help me leave a message~ Thanks.
▲ This day happened to meet a Japanese couple holding a wedding here.
Introduction to the environment of Dajue Temple: the beauty of the autumn garden and ancient pond
The architectural complex of Dakyuji Temple includes the main shrine, the Chenden, the Imperial Shadow Hall, the Five Great Halls, and the Heart Sutra Pagoda. These buildings are connected by cloisters. They incorporate various exquisite garden landscapes and dry landscape designs along the way. You can always enjoy the elegant natural beauty while walking there. . In autumn, a Saga Chrysanthemum Exhibition is held in front of the temple, with colorful chrysanthemums in full bloom, adding to the fun of autumn viewing for visitors.
A special reminder is that there are 238 exquisite murals on the sliding doors and lattice fans in the temple hall, which are absolutely not to be missed. Don’t be like me and just focus on photographing red leaves and ignore these artistic treasures. In addition, the Osawa Pond next to Daikakuji Temple is one of the oldest garden ponds in Japan. When autumn falls at night, the maple leaves and the Heart Sutra Pagoda are beautifully picturesque under the light of the poolside. It is an ideal place to enjoy the night maples.
▲ List of locations around Osawa Pond.
▲ This place is very good, there are no tourists.
▲ The Heart Sutra Pagoda.
▲ This is really the best view. When you come to Dajue Temple, you must sit down and enjoy the surrounding scenery.
Daikakuji Temple in Kyoto
- Address: 4 Saga Osawacho, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
- Phone: 075-871-0071
- Opening hours: 09:00~17:00
- Official website: http://www.daikakuji.or.jp/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/daikakuji
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/kyoto_daikakuji
