Rurikoin Temple

Overview & Charm

Rurikoin is a serene temple located at the foot of Mount Hiei. Its name is derived from 'Ruri' (Lapis Lazuli), one of the seven precious gems that decorate the Pure Land, as the main garden is said to glow with a brilliant lapis lazuli hue. The temple is most famous for its special viewing periods during spring, summer, and autumn, when the garden displays breathtaking colors such as fresh greenery and vibrant autumn leaves.

History & Cultural Background

Rurikoin is the Kyoto main temple of Muryoju-san Komyo-ji. Situated at the base of Mount Hiei, it has been celebrated since ancient times for its ever-changing seasonal scenery. The temple grounds also house a museum dedicated to the works of Louis Icart, a French artist active during the Art Deco era. This museum was established in 2008 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the sister-city relationship between Kyoto and Paris.

Main Highlights

The greatest feature of Rurikoin is its garden, which transforms with the seasons. In spring, you can enjoy the refreshing breeze through fresh greenery; in summer, the landscape is enveloped in deep, lush emerald tones; and in autumn, the garden is draped in a magnificent tapestry of colorful maple leaves. Additionally, the Louis Icart Museum on the premises displays exquisite French engravings. This museum opens specifically during the special viewing periods.

Seasonal & Time-Specific Recommendations

Access to the temple grounds is only permitted during special viewing periods in spring, summer, and autumn. The best times to visit are mid-April to late May for fresh greenery, summer for deep green hues, and the period from October to December for the famous autumn foliage. While the standard viewing hours are from 10:00 to 17:00, please note that the final entry is at 16:30. We highly recommend arriving early to ensure you have enough time to enjoy the scenery.

Experiences & Activities

Visitors can experience the changing colors of the seasons by paying the admission fee at the reception desk before entering the grounds. It is a perfect place to spend a quiet, meditative moment observing the shifting hues of the garden. During special viewing periods, you can also enjoy viewing the art collection at the Louis Icart Museum.

Surrounding Area

Rurikoin is located at the foot of Mount Hiei, surrounded by a rich natural environment. This location allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the seasonal beauty of the mountain landscape.

Important Information: Items, Clothing & Etiquette

Please observe the following guidelines during your visit:

• *Payment Method**: Admission fees must be paid in **CASH ONLY** at the reception desk before the temple gate. Credit cards and IC cards (like Suica/Pasmo) are **NOT** accepted.
• *English Support**: While some guidance may be available, please check the official website for detailed information.
• *Reservations**: For the spring special viewing (e.g., April 15 – May 31, 2026), no advanced reservations are required; you can purchase tickets directly at the reception.
• *Photography**: The use of tripods, monopods, and professional/commercial photography sessions is strictly prohibited.
• *Food & Drink**: Eating and drinking within the temple grounds is strictly prohibited.
• *Parking**: There is no parking available on-site. Please use public transportation.
• *Groups**: To maintain the serene atmosphere for local visitors, tours organized by travel agencies or large groups are not accepted.