Horinji Temple (法輪寺)

A little south of the Togetsukyo Bridge is Horinji Temple. You can see the pagoda of Horinji Temple from around Togetsukyo Bridge. It takes less than 10 minutes on foot to reach Horinji Temple from Togetsukyo Bridge. It is a quiet place, a far cry from the hustle and bustle of Arashiyama.

The Kuzunoi-gu Shrine, also associated with the ancient Hata clan, seems to have existed here in the Kofun period. And the Horinji Temple is an ancient temple said to have been founded by Gyoki in 713. Kukai and Nichiren, they are both famous monks in history, also trained at this temple.

In the Heian period, Seishonagon mentioned this Temple as a representative temple in her Makurano-soshi. Togetsu Bridge was also once called Horinji Bridge. You can see the temple’s pagoda from the Togetsu Bridge, which is one of the most famous views of Arashiyama.

Temple’s official WEB site

Stone steps lead up to Horinji Temple’s main hall and pagoda. Around the temple gate, there are many maple trees, and the area is beautiful with fresh green and red leaves in autumn.

The main hall of Horin-ji Temple is small and has no cultural assets of note.

View of Arashiyama from the terrace

A terrace is set up in the temple grounds. From here, you can enjoy a wide view of the Arashiyama area, including Togetsukyo Bridge, and Kyoto. Even if you are not interested in the temple itself, you should definitely visit for the view.

Denden Shrine

Denden Shrine is a small shrine located on the grounds of Horinji Temple. It is dedicated to the god of electricity. For this reason, people from companies related to electricity and electronics often visit the shrine.

Nearby spots from Horinji

This temple is located just south of the Togetsukyo Bridge.

Togetsukyo Bridge (渡月橋)

From Togetsukyo Bridge, follow the right bank of the river upstream for a while and you will find Senkoji Temple. It is a very nice hike in the fall foliage or when the leaves are freshly green.

Senkoji Temple