In Kyoto and looking for hidden gem temples with stone statues and a bamboo forest? This post goes over two hidden gem temples, Otagi Nenbutsu-ji & Adashino Nenbutsu-ji, worth a visit while in Kyoto.
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Intro
Kyoto has a ton of iconic sights, such as the Fushimi Inari Shrine and its tunnel of red torii gates, the Kinkaku-ji temple and its golden shimmer, and the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and its towering bamboo stalks. BUT not too far from the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest are two hidden gem temples that feel like a secret:
- Otagi Nenbutsu-ji: The temple with the thousands of stone statues
- Adashino Nenbutsu-ji: The temple with the secret bamboo forest
2 Hidden Gem Temples in Kyoto
The above map shows the hidden gem temples mentioned in this Kyoto post. The points are color-coordinate as:
- Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple (Stone Statues) → DARK BLUE
- Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple (Secret Bamboo Forest) → RED
HOW TO USE THE ABOVE KYOTO MAP:
| Action | Description |
|---|---|
| Click a Colored Point of Interest | Shows additional information and details of the selected Point of Interest |
| Click the Four-cornered Square at the Top Right | Opens the map in a Larger Map view in your personal Google Maps account |
| On Larger Map view, click the STAR ☆ under “Kyoto Hidden Gem Temples“ | Adds the Map to your personal Google Maps account to access anytime on Computer* or on Phone App** |
| * On Computer: In your Google Maps, Click “Saved” on left bar → Click “Maps” → Click “Kyoto Hidden Gem Temples“ | ** On Phone App: In your Google Maps app, Click “You” on bottom bar → Scroll to bottom → Click “Maps” → Click “Kyoto Hidden Gem Temples“ |
Getting to the Kyoto Hidden Gem Temples
The Otagi Nenbutsu-ji temple is about a 20-30 minute walk from the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. Or you can take a short bus ride or taxi. We opted to take the taxi rideshare Didi to get from the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest area to Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple.
Just a 10 minute walk from the Otagi Nenbutsu-ji temple is the Adashino Nenbutsu-ji temple. So it’s easy to visit both these hidden gem temples when you’re in Kyoto, especially when in the Arashiyama area.
The walk between the two Hidden Gem Temples • photos by Jeanie A
Otagi Nenbutsu-ji: Temple of Stone Statues
The Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple is a hidden gem and has hundreds of stone status that resemble people. But what makes them extra unique is that each has their own unique facial expression, some more funny than others but nonetheless super cool! You’ll find statues laughing, drinking sake, and making cheery faces. It’s hard to not take pictures of your favorite ones.
The temple grounds are so serene and truly transports you to a different time and place. The mossy statues, surrounding green hills, and overall quietness really give this temple a whimsical and magical vibe. I can’t recommend checking out this hidden gem temple enough.
Serene temple grounds of Otagi Nenbutsu-ji • photos by Jeanie A
Adashino Nenbutsu-ji: Secret Bamboo Forest
The second hidden gem temple is the Adashino Nenbutsu-ji temple. It has a more solemn vibe to it where the small stones are memorials, so it’s important to be quiet and respectful here. However, a short walk past the stones is a hidden gem within: an empty bamboo grove, similar to the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest.
Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple • photos by Jeanie A
During our visit it was just us and one other person, that’s how secret and hidden it was! So! If you’re looking for the same “look” as the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest but don’t want the crowds, then definitely visit the Adashino Nenbutsu-ji temple.
Why Visit These Temples?
1. Less Crowded
You are likely to be at the temple with only a handful of other people, if any! During my visit to Otagi, there were a few people visiting, and while at Adashino, there was only one person visiting! We practically had the whole place to ourselves to soak it in in true peace and quiet.
2. Unique & Different
Both hidden gem temples are different from the more tourist-y and popular spots in Kyoto. The whimsy of Otagi and the calm of Adashino offer a unique experience that you won’t forget.
3. Bonus Bamboo
The secret bamboo forest at Adashino Nenbutsu-ji temple is really a bonus! It’s the perfect alternative to the crowded and busy Arashiyama Bamboo Forest.
4. Beautiful Walk
It takes about a 10 minute walk to get from the Otagi Nenbutsu-ji to Adashino Nenbutsu-ji. Along the way you’ll see traditional wooden homes, quiet neighborhoods, and peaceful nature. The walk is really quite scenic and beautiful.
Where to Stay in Kyoto
We stayed at the GION KAWASEMI located a short walk away from Gion-Shijo train station, Gion Shopping Street, and Shijo-dori. It is in a convenient location near the central train station which makes getting to all the main sights easy.
Book the same stay by clicking here or add your dates and click “Search” for availability in the widget below:
Final Words
If you’re planning a visit to Kyoto, and the Arashiyama area, then add visiting these two hidden gem temples to your itinerary. You’ll experience two peaceful and unique temples you won’t regret carving time for. They might not have flocks of people heading to them like other iconic Kyoto sights, but that just adds to their appeal.
Have you been to either of these Hidden Gem Temples in Kyoto?
What was your experience like – Let me know in the comments below!
(japanese “thank you!”)
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