Gio-ji

Temple

Part of Arashiyama

Prefecture

Kyoto

Type

Temple

N/A

0 reviews

¥300

Entry Fee

Train Access

About This Destination

A small thatched-roof temple blanketed in luminous green moss, linked to a tragic love story from the Tale of the Heike. One of Arashiyama's most serene and intimate spots.

A thick carpet of luminous moss surrounds the tiny thatched-roof hall of Gio-ji, creating an almost otherworldly atmosphere of green tranquility. The temple preserves the tragic love story of Gio, a shirabyoshi dancer abandoned by the powerful Taira no Kiyomori, who retreated here with her mother and sister to live as nuns. Maple trees filter sunlight onto the velvety moss garden, making this intimate temple one of Kyoto's most photogenic and emotionally resonant hidden gems.

Location

Prefecture: Kyoto

Address: Kyoto, Japan

Nearest Station: Saga-Arashiyama Station

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Visitor Information

Credit Cards: Unknown

Official Website

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Gio-ji?

Gio-ji is in the deep Sagano area, about 25–30 minutes' walk from JR Saga-Arashiyama Station, passing through the bamboo grove and Saga-Toriimoto preserved district. From Kyoto City Bus 'Sagano Eigamura-mae' stop, walk 12 minutes north. By car, parking near Gio-ji is very limited — public transit is best.

What's the entry fee and opening hours?

Adult admission is 300 yen. A combined ticket with nearby Daikaku-ji is 600 yen. Open daily 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM (last admission 4:30 PM). Cash only. The whole compact garden takes about 20–30 minutes to walk through. The thatched-roof main hall has tatami seating where visitors can sit briefly and absorb the moss-garden view.

When is the best time to visit Gio-ji?

The rainy season (mid-June to mid-July) is when the moss is at its most luminous emerald green, easily the most photogenic moment. Mid-November maples add red contrast against the moss carpet. Mornings before 10 AM are quietest. Avoid the 30-minute window when tour buses arrive (around 11 AM and 2 PM); the small grounds get crowded quickly.

Is the moss garden similar to Kokedera (Saiho-ji)?

Both feature stunning moss, but the experience differs significantly. Saiho-ji requires advance written postal application and a 3,000 yen donation, with sutra-copying before viewing. Gio-ji has no reservation requirement, costs only 300 yen, and is much more compact (20-30 minute visit). For visitors short on time or who can't plan weeks ahead, Gio-ji is an excellent alternative — equally beautiful, with the added emotional context of Gio's love story.