Recommended Walking Course

Oku-Saga Half-Day Walking Course

Begin at Daikaku-ji Temple and continue through Giou-ji Temple, Adashino Nenbutsu-ji, the preserved streets of Saga Toriimoto, and Otagi Nenbutsu-ji. This peaceful walking course showcases Kyoto's tranquil temples, moss gardens, and traditional village scenery.

Walking distance

Approx. 5.5 km

Duration

Approx. 4.5–5.5 hours

Recommended start

Around 9:00 a.m.

Walking conditions

Some uphill sections

Arashiyama Course Map

Course Map

The numbered markers correspond to the order of the walking route.

Arashiyama Walking Route

Walking Route

Begin at Daikaku-ji Temple and walk through the peaceful Oku-Saga countryside, visiting historic temples, traditional streets, and unique cultural sites.

1

STOP 01

Daikaku-ji Temple

A historic imperial temple associated with Emperor Saga. Its spacious grounds and Osawa Pond offer beautiful scenery throughout the year.

Suggested visit: About 60 min.
View details
About a 20-minute walk to the next stop
2

STOP 02

Giou-ji Temple

A peaceful temple associated with The Tale of the Heike. Its beautiful moss garden changes with the seasons and is especially enchanting during the fresh greenery and autumn foliage.

Suggested visit: About 30–40 min.
View details
About a 10-minute walk to the next stop
3

STOP 03

Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple

Known for its thousands of historic stone Buddha statues, this peaceful temple offers a quiet atmosphere and a picturesque bamboo-lined approach.

Suggested visit: About 40 min.
View details
About a 3-minute walk to the next stop
4

STOP 04

Saga Toriimoto

A preserved historic district with traditional thatched-roof houses, offering a glimpse into the atmosphere of old Kyoto.

Suggested visit: About 30 min.
View details
About a 5-minute walk to the next stop
5

STOP 05

Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple

Famous for its 1,200 unique stone Rakan statues, each with its own expression. It is one of the most memorable and peaceful temples in Oku-Saga.

Suggested visit: About 45–60 min.
View details
Final stop

Route Highlights

  • Visit the historic Daikaku-ji Temple and scenic Osawa Pond
  • See thousands of stone Buddha statues at Adashino Nenbutsu-ji
  • Walk through the preserved thatched-roof streets of Saga Toriimoto
  • Discover the 1,200 expressive stone Rakan statues at Otagi Nenbutsu-ji

Before You Start

Times shown are approximate. The total duration depends on temple visits, breaks, and walking pace. Parts of Oku-Saga include gentle uphill sections, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

※The line on the map connects the locations in route order. It may not exactly follow the actual roads or walking paths.