Eikan-do

Temple

Prefecture

Kyoto

Type

Temple

N/A

1 review

¥600

Entry Fee

Train Access

About This Destination

Celebrated as the premier autumn foliage temple in Kyoto, housing a uniquely expressive Amida Buddha statue that gazes back over its left shoulder.

Eikan-do, formally known as Zenrin-ji, was founded in 853 by Shinjo, a disciple of Kukai. It's been known for autumn foliage since the Heian period—nicknamed the Temple of Autumn Leaves. About 3,000 maple trees cover the hillside grounds; the elevated Tahoto pagoda has views over the canopy and Higashiyama mountains. The temple's main treasure is the Mikaeri Amida, a Buddha statue looking back over its left shoulder—said to represent the Buddha's concern for those who fall behind. November evening illuminations light up the maples and Hojo Pond, creating reflections in the water. Eikan-do is the head temple of the Seizan branch of Jodo Buddhism, over 1,100 years of history.

Location

Prefecture: Kyoto

Address: Kyoto, Japan

Nearest Station: Keage Station (Tozai Subway Line)

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Visitor Information

Credit Cards: Unknown

Food Options: No dining within the temple. The nearby Nanzenji temple area and the Philosopher's Path offer several cafes, soba noodle restaurants, and yudofu (tofu hot pot) establishments.

Official Website

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Eikan-do?

From Tozai subway Keage Station, walk 10 minutes north along the canal — Eikan-do is just south of Nanzen-ji. From central Kyoto, city bus #5 to 'Nanzenji Eikando-michi' bus stop (about 30 minutes from Kyoto Station, 230 yen). Many visitors combine Eikan-do with Nanzen-ji (3 minutes' walk) and the start of the Philosopher's Path (2 minutes north).

When is the best time to visit Eikan-do?

Mid- to late November for autumn foliage — Eikan-do is consistently ranked Kyoto's #1 momiji temple, with 3,000 maples covering the hillside grounds. Evening illumination during the foliage period (typically November 7 to December 6) is breathtaking but very crowded; daytime weekday visits are calmer. Spring (April) is also lovely with cherries. The Hojo Pond reflects the Tahoto pagoda beautifully year-round.

What's the entry fee structure at Eikan-do?

Adult admission is 600 yen for general access, but during the autumn foliage season (early November to early December) and special periods, it rises to 1,000 yen for daytime and 600 yen for the separate evening illumination. Junior-high and elementary 400 yen normally / 600 yen daytime in peak season. The fee includes the Mikaeri Amida Hall, the rock and pond gardens, and the elevated Tahoto pagoda views. Cash and cards accepted.

What's special about the Mikaeri Amida statue?

Most Buddhist statues face directly forward, but Eikan-do's Mikaeri Amida (Looking-Back Amida, made in the late Heian or early Kamakura period) turns its head to look back over its left shoulder — said to represent the Buddha's compassion for those who fall behind on the spiritual path. The pose was inspired by a 1082 vision experienced by the monk Eikan, who saw Amida turn to encourage him during a chanting practice. The statue is housed in the Amida Hall at the heart of the temple complex.