Seiryo-ji

Temple

Part of Arashiyama

Prefecture

Kyoto

Type

Temple

N/A

1 review

¥400

Entry Fee

Train Access

About This Destination

Houses the 'Living Buddha' statue brought from China in 987—a wooden Shaka Nyorai said to replicate the Buddha's true likeness. X-rays in 1953 revealed silk internal organs hidden inside.

Also known as Saga Shakado, this temple houses the Shaka Nyorai 'Living Buddha,' a statue brought from Song dynasty China by the monk Chōnen in 987. Temple tradition holds that it replicates a likeness of the historical Buddha carved during his lifetime in India, which explains why the image became an important object of pilgrimage in Japan. In 1953, X-rays revealed that the statue contained silk replicas of human internal organs, along with documents, coins, and other offerings sealed inside since the 10th century. These items, now designated National Treasures, are displayed during special viewings. The temple's vermilion main hall (Shakado) stands out against the surrounding greenery, and the grounds include the graves of historical figures and a traditional garden. Seiryo-ji is famous for the Saga Dainenbutsu Kyogen—masked silent plays performed on special occasions throughout the year. Less crowded than neighboring Tenryu-ji, this temple offers a more contemplative experience in the Saga district of Arashiyama.

Location

Prefecture: Kyoto

Address: Kyoto, Japan

Nearest Station: Saga-Arashiyama Station

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Visitor Information

Credit Cards: Unknown

Food Options: No dining on temple grounds. The Saga neighborhood has several traditional restaurants and cafes. The Arashiyama main street (15-minute walk) offers extensive dining options.

Official Website

Frequently Asked Questions

When can I see the items found inside the Living Buddha statue?

The silk organs and other treasures found inside the Buddha statue are displayed during special viewings, typically in spring (April–May) and autumn (October–November). Check the temple website (seiryoji.or.jp) for current exhibition dates and times. An additional 1,000 yen admission applies for the treasure house during these special viewings.

What is Saga Dainenbutsu Kyogen?

These are traditional masked silent plays performed at Seiryo-ji since the Kamakura period (13th century) — designated as a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property. Unlike Noh or Kabuki, the performers wear masks and act without speaking, telling stories purely through gesture, music, and dance. Performances are held in spring (around April 1–3), during the autumn equinox, and occasionally at other times. Free to watch.

How do I combine Seiryo-ji with other Arashiyama sights?

From Saga-Arashiyama Station, walk 10 minutes north to Seiryo-ji first (it's quieter than the main Arashiyama area), then head south through the peaceful Saga neighborhood toward the bamboo grove and Tenryu-ji (20 minutes' walk). This 'reverse' route avoids the crowds that build up in the main Arashiyama area by midday. Daikaku-ji is also nearby (5 minutes' walk north of Seiryo-ji).

What's the entry fee for Seiryo-ji?

Adult admission to the main hall is 400 yen, junior-high and elementary 200 yen. The fee includes viewing the famous 'Living Buddha' Shaka Nyorai statue (a National Treasure) and the surrounding hall. Special exhibitions of the items found inside the statue cost an additional 700 yen. Free to walk through the temple grounds outside the main hall. Open daily 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM (last admission 3:30 PM). Cash only.