Located at 15 Chome-778 Honmachi, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City in Kyoto Prefecture, Tofukuji (東福寺) is the head temple of the Tofukuji School of the Rinzai sect of Zen Buddhism.
Tofukuji (東福寺)
Tofukuji History
Tofukuji was founded in 1236 by the priest Enni. The temple grounds cover an area of 200,000 square meters. It is presently home to the Hojo (Abbot's Hall) the huge San-mon (temple gate) and 24 sub-temples.
Tofukuji Rokuhara Gate
Tofukuji Sanmon
Aside from these, you can also see the spectacular checkboard-patterned garden in the temple grounds. However, to view the garden, you have to pay the 400 yen entrance fee for the Hojo and its garden.
A closer view of Tofukuji Sanmon
Tofukuji Zen Hall
A closer view of Tofukuji Zen Hall
Tofukuji Kuri
Another part of the temple ground worth checking out is the Tsutenkyo (Bridge to Heaven) and the Kaisando. It is worth noting that the Tsutenkyo was one of the filming locations of the Japan edition music video of Clean Bandit's Solo featuring Demi Lovato. You can check out the said video below. The Tsutenkyo dance scene is at 1:58.
Tofukuji Tsutenkyo
Crossing the Tofukuji Tsutenkyo
Watched Clean Bandit's Solo music video while in Tofukuji Tsutenkyo
Check out Clean Bandit's Solo music video ft. Demi Lovato
The bridge is also a famous foliage viewing spot every autumn. The leaves of the numerous maple trees at the valley below turn fire-red every autumn. Hence Tofukuji tends to be crowded every October to early December. Just a heads up though, you have to also pay a 400 yen admission fee to enter Tsutenkyo bridge and the Kaisando area.
Tofukuji Aizendo at the other end of the Tsutenkyo
Tofukuji Kaizando was being restored during our visit
Tofukuji Kaizando
My brother and I got to visit Tofukiji on the 5th day of our 2019 Japan trip. It was my first time visiting the said temple. I missed visiting the temple during my 2014 and 2018 visits as it was still "outside my radar". I only gained interest in it after seeing it in the Solo music video.
Here are some of the photos of the temple grounds:
During our visit, we skipped the Hojo and garden area. We only went to the Tsutenkyo and Kaisando area. Sadly, most of the maple leaves shed their leaves already. Regardless, the view from the bridge remained fascinating. As for the Kaisando, it was under restorative works so we failed to see its full beauty.
Off to our next destination...
Gaun Bridge
Tofukuji's Tsutenkyo as seen from Gaun Bridge
Tofukuji Admission Fee:
There are parts of Tofukuji that you can explore for FREE. However, if you wish to enter the Hojo and the garden you need to pay 400 yen. Another 400 yen entrance fee will be charged if you wish to enter the Tsutenkyo and Kaisando area.
Tofukuji Opening Hours:
Tofukuji is open from 8:30AM to 4PM.
Why visit Tofukuji?
Tofukuji is a perfect place to visit if you're exploring the Rakunan Area of Kyoto. It's one of those temples that offer a mix of splendid nature views and rustic feels. Aside from that, if you're a fan of Clean Bandit then this place should be part of your itinerary. It will make you proud to see the Tsutenkyo Bridge where a part of the Solo music video was shot.
Getting to Tofukuji:
From Kyoto Station, ride bus #208 and board down at Tofukuji bus stop.
Fare: 230 yen
As an alternative, you can also board the Keihan Line or JR Nara Line and board down at Tofukuji Station.
Located in the center of the Poblacion or town proper of Imus City in the province of Cavite, Imus City Plaza is one of the city's scenic and historical attractions. Imus City Plaza Imus City Plaza Details This plaza is located in front of the equally historical Imus Cathedral and Imus City Hall . Imus City Plaza is also the first place to greet you if you're heading to the cathedral via Sapinoso Street. Imus City Plaza - Imus City, Cavite General Licerio Topacio The general guarding the flag Checking out each angle of the monument Imus City Plaza History Imus City Plaza is probably easily remembered because of the monument with two vintage artillery flanking it. The monument stands as an honor to the children of Imus who joined the fight for the independence of the country against Spain. As for the man standing on top of the monument, he is General Licerio Topacio . He is one of the most notable sons of Imus. He is famously known for honorably declinin...
Located in Rosario in the province of Cavite, Casa Hacienda de Tejeros is famously known as the location of the historic Tejeros Convention of 1897. Casa Hacienda de Tejeros Casa Hacienda de Tejeros history Casa Hacienda de Tejeros was originally built in the 17th century. The hacienda and its surrounding lands were formerly owned by the Augustinian Recollects. The estate was once the largest and grandest estate in the country. It once covered as much as 1,125 hectares with the casa occupying 4 hectares of it. Casa Hacienda de Tejeros - Rosario, Cavite The NHI Marker of the Casa Hacienda de Tejeros The name tejeros came from the Spanish name tejer , which means "to weave". It's due to the fact that the weaving industry is one of the major industries of the municipality of Rosario. Going back to its historical importance, Casa Hacienda de Tejeros played an important role in 1897 when it hosted the assembly that the new leaders of the revolution were elected. ...
Located in the vicinity of Mt. Nagpatong in Maragondon in the province of Cavite, Andres Bonifacio Shrine and Eco-tourism Park mark the supposed place where Andres Bonifacio and his brothers Procopio were executed in 1897. Andres Bonifacio Shrine and Eco-tourism Park Andres Bonifacio Shrine and Eco-tourism Park History We learned from the previous post about Bonifacio Trial House the story of the trail leading up to the last days of Andres Bonifacio . Since I did not fully elaborate on his death, I think it is very relevant to talk about it now in relation to our featured destination - The Andres Bonifacio Shrine and Eco-tourism Park . Check out the images on the BAYANI Check out the images on the KKK A perfect angle to see the KKK and Bayani I'm wondering if that face is scared, shocked, or excited... The statue of Andres Bonifacio wearing a very fashionable camisa de chino Our local guide showed us the way to the peak of Mt. Nagpatong After his...
Located at Francisco Mercado Street corner Jose P. Rizal Street, Barangay 5 Poblacion, Calamba City in the province of Laguna, Jose Rizal Shrine ( Dambana ni Rizal ) is the birthplace of Dr. Jose P. Rizal -the National Hero of the Philippines. Jose Rizal Shrine (Calamba) Jose Rizal Shrine History Jose Rizal Shrine is probably well known as the ancestral house of Rizal's family. The house serves as a museum that contains furniture and items that belong to the Rizal family. Jose Rizal Shrine - Calamba City, Laguna Young Jose Rizal with his dog I wonder what Young Rizal had in mind Rizal Shrine NHI Marker For those who don't know, the house that stood in the lot is actually only a replica of the old ancestral house which was destroyed during the Second World War. The replica was constructed right after the war. The construction was supervised by the late National Artist Juan Nakpil. It was inaugurated in 1950. The entrance to Jose Rizal Shrine...
10 More Things to Do in Asahikawa City There are a lot of things to do in Asahikawa City ( 旭川市 ) in Hokkaido, Japan . That’s why I’m back with 10 More Things to do in Asahikawa City . However, keep in mind that some of the places here are located on the outskirts of the city. They are best visited by private vehicles or rental cars so that you can explore them or do the activities without worry. If you have accomplished the first ten then you should do these after: Hachiya Ramen @ Furarito 1. Go to Furarito Restaurant Street ( ふらりーと ) and try one of the many restaurants or izakaya there. I highly recommend Hachiya Ramen if you are looking for authentic Asahikawa Ramen . Hokuchin Memorial Museum 2. Visit the Hokuchin Memorial Museum ( 北鎮記念館 ) and learn about the 7th Division of the Imperial Army dubbed Japan's defenders of the north. Asahikawa Gokoku Shrine 3. Pay your respects and offer prayers at Asahikawa's other prominent temples, such as the Asahikawa ...
Iwao Onsen Attamaru or Iwao Hot Springs Attamaru ( 岩尾温泉あったま～る ) is a day trip onsen facility on the outskirts of Mashike. It is located along Route 231 at 109-1 Iwaoi in the town of Mashike in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan . Iwao Onsen Attamaru Iwao Onsen Attamaru details Iwao Onsen Atamaru is a cozy hot spring nestled on a small hill by the coast, quietly welcoming visitors at the southern entrance of Mashike Town. Known for its simple acidic water, this hot spring is cherished for its healing properties, particularly for skin ailments and rheumatism. Iwao Onsen Attamaru - Mashike town, Hokkaido Prefecture Found at the southern tip of Shokabetsu Teuri Yajiri Quasi-National Park , the Ofuyu Iwaro Area boasts stunning natural beauty. Ofuyu Beach, stretching for 25 kilometers, showcases towering cliffs and diverse landscapes, offering breathtaking views, especially during sunset. Relax and enjoy the serene atmosphere while soaking in the warm waters. Iwao Onsen Attamaru facade 岩尾温...
Day 387: November 23, 2022 Wednesday – Labor Thanksgiving Day It’s a very cold but surprisingly sunny day here in Rumoi City ( 留萌市 ). It also happens to be Labor Thanksgiving Day which is a public holiday here in Japan . This only means one thing… It’s another opportunity for #TeamNicerio to travel. For today’s road trip, we decided to drive around Rumoi City. JR Rumoi Station We took a lot of pictures with the Kazumo-chan standee JR Rumoi Station 's anniversary According to some locals, this might be the last anniversary of JR Rumoi Station as it will close down next year Inside JR Rumoi Station The Soba Shop inside Rumoi Station Old photos were on display inside the station C11 207 Suzuran I'm happy to see that there are still some people who use the Rumoi Line Our first stop for the day was JR Rumoi Station . I read from the Rumoi City website that there is an anniversary event being held at the station. Since this seems to be the last anniversary before the train line ...
Located in Barangay Limbon, Indang in the province of Cavite, the Bonifacio Shrine of Indang is one of the historical landmarks dedicated to the Father of the Philippine Revolution -Andres Bonifacio. Bonifacio Shrine of Indang Bonifacio Shrine in Indang History Bonifacio Shrine in Indang marks the location of the nipa hut where Andres Bonifacio was seized and captured by the soldiers of his political rival and fellow revolutionary Emilio Aguinaldo in 1897. It was also here that Bonifacio was gravely injured after he was shot by an arresting soldier when he was being dragged to Indang town proper to be imprisoned. Bonifacio Shrine in Indang , Cavite This is how I look like pre-sneeze. The arrest of Bonifacio Philippine Historical Commission marker Presently, the historical nipa hut did not win against the tests of time. A small public park was constructed where the nipa hut was said to have once stood. The park features a statue of a seemingly very surprised And...
Week 56: November 21 – 25, 2022 Day 385: November 21, 2022 Monday – Rumoi It’s a rainy morning. I was shocked by the news that Jason David Frank died today. He is well-known for his role as Tommy Oliver or simply Green Ranger in the hit show Power Rangers. He would forever be remembered by the 90s kids like me. RIP Green Ranger . Rumoi High School 11.21.22 As for my work, today, I’m heading back to Rumoi High School . It’s exam week today so I won’t have any collaboration work. So, I spent my day studying Japanese using the VLJ Course . I’m happy to share that I finally finished Unit 4 of the five units in the course. Manga and bagoong ! The perfect combination I didn’t waste time starting with the 5th. When I got home after work, my wife served green mango and bagoong . This reminded me of the food that we usually have in the Philippines. Day 386: November 22, 2022 Tuesday – Rumoi Rumoi High School 11.22.2022 It’s the second day of exams. I’m back reporting at Rumo...
Japan is undeniably a collector's paradise. As a matter of fact, there are a plethora of different things to collect here that are catered to every collector's unique taste and preference. Anime fans have their usual toys, mangas, and memorabilia. Pokemon fans have numerous Pokemon Centers that sell an assortment of Pokemon merchandise. Kitkat collectors have more than 300 flavors of Kitkat to try out. Pilgrims have the temple stamps called goshuin which I wrote about last time. These are but some of the numerous possible things to collect in Japan . A Guide to Collecting Eki Stamps However, since I'm promoting budget travel, my article today talks about something that you can collect for FREE . Yup, you read that right. All you need to have is a clean notebook or tickler and an ever-watchful eye. A Guide to Collecting Eki Stamps Eki stamps , also called train station stamps, are rubber ink stamps that are typically found in most train stations in Japan. These stamps f...
So this is that temple in Solo video. Thanks for the info.
ReplyDeleteYou're welcome! Please feel free to check out my other articles too.
Delete