Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple: The Hidden Treasure of Kyoto

Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple is a small but unique Buddhist Temple. It nestles into the side of a hill in the west of Kyoto city and is home to about 1200 short distinct rakan statues.

Each moss-covered rakan statue is unique in their pose. Nenbutsu-ji is not the most sightseeing spot in Kyoto, but it stands out as one of the most unique temples in the city. The temple's interactive nature gives Otagi Nenbutsu-ji the name "the temple of healing".

I've lived in Kyoto for years and until recently I had never heard of the Otagi Nenbutsu-ji temple (愛宕 念仏寺). To say that his temple is a hidden-gem is an understatement. In fact, ask a Kyoto native, and you will most likely find that few locals are even aware of this hidden treasure.

I was happily surprised to discover this unique Kyoto temple. The temple grounds of Nenbutsu-ji are small with just a few buildings on on the premises. But, the sight of the tiny rakan statues covering the hillside is remarkable. The statues add a personal charm that tends to be absent in many Japanese temples.

As I slowly made my way past the Buddhist statues, I realized that they all had different features. They all represent different states of emotion. No two statues look alike... At least not that I could see. It's because of this reason that Otagi Nenbutsu-ji reveals itself as a must-see temple in Kyoto. These worn statues create a special narrative for the temple that speaks to visitors.

Nenbutsu-ji Temple is a great chance to get away from the Kyoto crowds. Kyoto tourism is getting very crowded these days. You finally get to Kyoto! The cultural heart of your log-planned holiday. And, of course, you want to see Kyoto's most popular sightseeing spots.

However, those places have become so crowded that it might not be the Kyoto you've been looking for. I recommend that people take the time to check out lesser known sights of the city. A temple like Nenbutsu-ji will bring you closer to the image of Kyoto that you imagined.

Nenbutsu Temple can be found in a less explored part of Kyoto's western district. Located in a tranquil part of Kyoto's Arashiyama district's lush landscape. Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple offers a spiritual retreat steeped in history and serenity.

Otagi Nenbutsu-ji is nestled in the scenic Arashiyama neighborhood of Kyoto. In fact, getting there is an adventure in itself. Here are the best ways to reach this serene sanctuary:

• Bus: Catch lines 62, 72, 92, or 94, bound for Kiyotaki-Arashiyama, and alight at Otagi-dera mae. A brief 2-minute walk will lead you to the temple's welcoming gates.
• Train: Take the JR Sagano Line from Kyoto station to Saga-Arashiyama. From there its a 30-minute walk through the picturesque surroundings. This is a good option for those with a JR Pass.

Established in the Higashiyama area in 770 by Empress Shōtoku. The first temple faced challenges, including being washed away by a flood. It found a new home in the north-east of Kyoto during the early Heian period, only to fall into disrepair over the centuries. A move in 1922 aimed to preserve its core structures, but a devastating typhoon in 1955 left the temple severely damaged.

In 1955, Kocho Nishimura, a sculptor and monk, restored the temple and he started a special project, inviting people to carve statues of Buddha's disciples. This led to the creation of 1200 Rakan statues by amateurs from all over Japan in the 1980s.

This project not only helped fix the temple but also involved the community in a meaningful and artistic way. The Nishimura family continues to find new ways to share Buddha’s message of happiness, using music, photography, and video at the temple.

The rakan statues of Nenbutsuji show a variety of emotions. For example, reading a book to a child, laughing, holding a camera, or playing musical instruments. This variety captures a wide range of human emotions and activities. It makes each visit a personal experience.

• Reading to a child
• Laughing
• Holding a camera

The hall also offers a stunning view of the Rakan statues. Especially beautiful during the autumn season. The temple grounds have small shrines, including the "Fureai Kannon" for blind visitors. People can touch parts of the Kannon statue to seek healing for their ailments.

Hotel Binario Saga Arashiyama

8.1

very good

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3-star

Starting from

¥

18,000

The hotel is a 10-minute walk from Tenryuji Temple and Bamboo Street, while Togetsukyo is a 12-minute walk away. Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple is a 38-minute walk from this hotel.

Homm Stay Nagi Arashiyama Kyoto

9.3

superb

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3-star

Starting from

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22,000

Well situated in the Ukyo Ward district of Kyoto, Homm Stay Nagi Arashiyama Kyoto By Banyan Group is located 2.8 km from Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple, 6.3 km from Kitano Tenmangu Shrine and 6.3 km from Katsura Imperial Villa.

Arashiyama Tenryu no Yado (Dragon Legend)

9.4

superb

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3-star

Starting from

¥

44,000

This house rental (5 people) is less than 1 km from Arashiama Bamboo Grove, 2.9 km from Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple. The accommodation offers airport transfers, while a bicycle rental service is also available.