Horinji Temple
Hōrin-ji法輪寺
Horinji Temple
Hōrin-ji法輪寺
About Horinji Temple
Hōrin-ji, also known as 'Saga no Kokuzō-san', is an ancient Shingon temple on the southern slope of Arashiyama with a history dating back to 713 AD. It is a unique blend of ancient tradition and modern innovation. While it hosts the traditional 'Jūsan Mairi' coming-of-age ceremony for 13-year-olds, it also houses the 'Denden-gu' shrine, dedicated to the guardian deity of electricity and radio waves, making it a pilgrimage site for the tech industry. The temple offers panoramic views of Arashiyama and Togetsukyo Bridge from its observation deck.
Cultural Assets
Statues of Jikokuten and Tamonten
Important Cultural PropertyTwo of the Four Heavenly Kings, dating back to the Kamakura period, representing the pinnacle of 13th-century Buddhist sculpture.
Denden-gu Shrine
Historic StructureA unique shrine dedicated to the ancestral deities of electricity and radio waves, featuring reliefs of Thomas Edison and Heinrich Hertz.
Cultural Experiences
Jūsan Mairi (Thirteen Visit)
No Reservation NeededAvailability: Year-round, traditionally mid-April
Hari Kuyō (Needle Memorial)
No Reservation NeededAvailability: Annually on December 8th
Open every day. The observation deck ('The Stage') is closed all day on August 16th for safety during the Gozan no Okuribi festival.
Admission to the temple grounds is free. Fees may apply for special prayer services or entering the Main Hall.
A typical visit takes 30-45 minutes. Allow more time if you plan to hike up the stairs leisurely or attend a specific ceremony.
The main approach involves steep stone stairs that are not wheelchair accessible. However, a paved back road allows vehicle drop-off near the main hall for those with permits.
Best Time to Visit
Late November offers a spectacular 'tunnel' of red maples on the stairs. Visit early morning (9:00 AM) to enjoy the misty views from the stage in solitude.
Getting There
From Hankyu Arashiyama Station, it is a 5-7 minute walk. From JR Saga-Arashiyama Station, it is a 15-20 minute walk across the Togetsukyo Bridge.
Photography Policy
Photography is permitted in the outdoor precincts. It is strictly prohibited inside the Main Hall and other buildings. Tripods are banned.
