# Jojakko-ji

> Hillside temple in Sagano, best in autumn. The pagoda surrounded by red and orange maples is the shot everyone takes in November.

- Prefecture: Kyoto
- Type: Temple
- Address: Kyoto, Japan
- Admission: 500 yen
- Official site: https://www.jojakko-ji.or.jp/

Climbing the stone steps through Jojakko-ji's forested hillside reveals one of Kyoto's finest autumn spectacles, with fiery maples creating a canopy of red and gold overhead. The temple's thatched-roof Nio Gate and multi-story pagoda emerge from the foliage like scenes from a woodblock print. Founded in 1596, this peaceful retreat in Sagano offers sweeping views over Arashiyama and Kyoto city, while moss-covered grounds glow emerald in the filtered forest light.

## FAQ

### How do I get to Jojakko-ji?

From JR Saga-Arashiyama Station, walk 15 minutes northwest, passing the bamboo grove on your right. Alternatively, the Keifuku Randen Arashiyama Station is a 20-minute walk. The temple is in the quieter Sagano area, just past the bamboo grove and a few minutes uphill from Tenryu-ji. By car, parking near the temple is very limited, so public transport is recommended.

### What's the entry fee for Jojakko-ji?

Adult admission is 500 yen, junior-high and elementary 200 yen. The fee includes the entire hillside garden circuit, the Niomon Gate, the multi-tier pagoda, and panoramic viewpoints over Sagano. Cash only. The temple is open daily 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last admission 4:30 PM).

### When is the best time to visit Jojakko-ji?

Mid- to late November is the standout, when the entire hillside glows with red and orange maples, making this one of Kyoto's top three foliage temples. Spring and the rainy season (mid-June) are quietly beautiful for moss and fresh greenery. Mornings before 10 AM are the only way to avoid the peak-foliage crowds. Allow 45-60 minutes including the climb to the upper viewpoint.

### What can I combine with Jojakko-ji in Sagano?

Combine with Nison-in (a 5-minute walk, also famous for foliage), Takiguchi-dera, Gio-ji's moss garden, and the more remote Otagi Nenbutsu-ji with its 1,200 stone rakan further uphill. Sagano's Adashino Nenbutsu-ji is also nearby. The peaceful walking lanes between these temples are part of the experience, and Sagano gives a quieter alternative to Arashiyama's main drag.

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Source: Jojakko-ji — Japan Voyage