Recommended Walking Course

Shugakuin Half-Day Walking Course

Enjoy a peaceful walk through the Shugakuin and Ichijoji area, visiting Hachidai Shrine, Shisen-do Temple, Enko-ji Temple, Konpuku-ji Temple, and Manshu-in Temple. This route showcases beautiful gardens, bamboo groves, and tranquil temple grounds.

Walking distance

Approx. 3 km

Duration

Approx. 4–5 hours

Recommended start

Around 9:00 a.m.

Walking conditions

Mostly flat with gentle slopes

Arashiyama Course Map

Course Map

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

Arashiyama Walking Route

Walking Route

Start at Hachidai Shrine and explore the peaceful temples and gardens of Ichijoji before finishing at Manshu-in Temple.

1

STOP 01

Hachidai Shrine

A historic shrine associated with Miyamoto Musashi, who is said to have prayed here before his famous duel with the Yoshioka clan. It is also known as a shrine for martial arts.

Suggested visit: About 20 min.
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About a 3-minute walk to the next stop
2

STOP 02

Shisen-do Temple

Originally built as the retreat of scholar Ishikawa Jozan, Shisen-do is famous for its tranquil gardens, seasonal beauty, and the soothing sound of its bamboo water feature.

Suggested visit: About 45 min.
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About a 5-minute walk to the next stop
3

STOP 03

Enko-ji Temple

Founded by Tokugawa Ieyasu, Enko-ji is celebrated for its Zen gardens, peaceful bamboo grove, and spectacular autumn foliage.

Suggested visit: About 45 min.
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About a 10-minute walk to the next stop
4

STOP 04

Konpuku-ji Temple

A temple closely connected with the poets Matsuo Basho and Yosa Buson. Visitors can explore Basho’s hermitage and enjoy its peaceful literary atmosphere.

Suggested visit: About 30 min.
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About a 20-minute walk to the next stop
5

STOP 05

Manshu-in Temple

An elegant former monzeki temple where members of the Imperial family once served as head priests. Its refined gardens, traditional architecture, and painted sliding doors make it one of Kyoto’s finest temple complexes.

Suggested visit: About 45 min.
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Final stop

Route Highlights

  • Visit some of Kyoto’s finest traditional gardens
  • Enjoy peaceful bamboo groves, moss gardens, and temple scenery
  • Experience the quiet atmosphere of the Ichijoji district
  • Especially beautiful during the fresh greenery and autumn foliage seasons

Before You Start

Times shown are approximate. The total duration depends on temple visits, breaks, and crowd levels. Some gentle uphill sections are included, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

※The line on the map connects the locations in route order and may differ from the actual roads.