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.
Updated: October 30, 2020 Our adventure today will take us 46.11 kilometers south from kilometer 0 in Manila. The historic atmosphere still lingers due to the historical landmarks that you can see all around this place. One of the most famous landmarks this city has to offer is the Rizal Shine or more popularly known as Rizal's house. However I'm not here to give you a history adventure but instead, I will tell you the different side of this city. 88 Hotspring Resort and Spa Calamba City in the province of Laguna is a city that has more resorts than the number of days in a year. Because of the fast-growing number of resorts (661 and counting), this city earned the nickname Resort Capital of the Philippines. 88 Hotspring Resort and Spa - Calamba, Laguna Travelers and resort seekers who didn't read my blog The Adventurer's List would surely be unprepared for what's to come. It would surely take a day for you to choose and pick the most suitable reso...
Roadside Station “Marine Island Okashima” ( 道の駅 マリーンアイランド岡島 ) is one of the roadside stations scattered all over Hokkaido. It is located along National Route 238 in 1978-13 Okashima, in the town of Esashi, Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan . Roadside Station “Marine Island Okashima” Roadside Station “Marine Island Okashima” Details Registered as an official roadside station on April 16, 1996, with Registration Number 28, Roadside Station "Marine Island Okajima" is a must-visit destination along National Route 238. Designed to mimic a ship sailing through the majestic Sea of Okhotsk, this roadside station is a favorite stop for travelers exploring Esashi Town and its scenic coastline. Roadside Station "Marine Island Okashima" - Esashi town, Hokkaido Prefecture Discover Esashi’s Seafood Treasures At the Esashi Town Specialty Products Direct Sales Shop , visitors can indulge in the best seafood the town has to offer. Highlights include: Hairy Crabs : Esa...
10 Things to Do in Kitahiroshima City Kitahiroshima ( 北広島市 ) is a city located in the Ishikari Subprefecture of Hokkaido, Japan . It is the place where Dr. Clark left his famous words in "Boys Be Ambitious." The name " Kitahiroshima " literally means " North Hiroshima City ." On September 1, 1996, the town of Hiroshima was upgraded to city status. However, since there was already a city named Hiroshima in Hiroshima Prefecture, the municipality was renamed Kitahiroshima to avoid having two cities with the same name. For those planning to visit this vibrant city to check what it has to offer, here are the 10 Things to Do in Kitahiroshima City : Kitahiroshima City manhole cover 1. Take a picture of the manhole cover of Kitahiroshima . So far, I have seen 1 unique manhole cover. It is commonly found around the city. Hiroshima Shrine 2. Visit the Hiroshima Shrine ( 廣島神社 ) , the main shrine of Kitahiroshima City. You can visit at any time of day to o...
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...
My family and I had the opportunity to explore Asahiyama Zoo ( 旭川市旭山動物園 ) for the first time on November 20, 2022 , marking my 384th day in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme . It was the highlight of our day trip to Asahikawa City. We all enjoyed the numerous facilities in the zoo. Asahiyama Zoo Revisited 2023 That didn’t stop me from bringing my siblings there during our Sibling Roadtrip #3 when they visited Hokkaido last July 27, 2023 . It was the highlight of the day, and we spent the whole day exploring the vast zoo. Asahiyama Zoo - Asahikawa City, Hokkaido Prefecture A Brief History of Asahiyama Zoo Located at the northernmost part of Japan, Asahiyama Zoo was inaugurated on July 1, 1967, under the visionary leadership of then- Mayor Kōzō Igarashi . The zoo initially showcased 75 animal species, and despite challenges like dwindling attendance, it reinvented itself into a leading wildlife conservation center. Innovative exhibits introduced since the late 1990...
Shiretoko National Park ( 知床国立公園 ) is one of the six national parks of Hokkaido. It covers most of the Shiretoko Peninsula, located at the northeastern tip of Hokkaido, Japan . Shiretoko National Park Shiretoko National Park Details Shiretoko National Park , located in eastern Hokkaido, is one of Japan’s last true frontiers—a dramatic, rugged peninsula where untouched wilderness meets rich cultural heritage. The name “ Shiretoko ” is derived from the Ainu language— sir etok , meaning “ the place where the earth protrudes.” This fitting name reflects the park’s geography, as the Shiretoko Peninsula juts boldly into the Sea of Okhotsk. Shiretoko National Park - Shiretoko Peninsula, Hokkaido Prefecture A UNESCO World Heritage Site of Natural Wonders Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005 , Shiretoko is globally recognized for its exceptional biodiversity. The area is home to Japan’s largest population of Ussuri brown bears, as well as other remarkable wildlife such a...
Nemuro Roadside Station ( 根室道の駅 ) , formally called Roadside Station Swan 44 Nemuro ( 道の駅 スワン 44 ねむろ ) , is one of the roadside stations around Hokkaido Prefecture. It is located along National Route 44 at 1 Rakuyo, Nemuro City in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan . Nemuro Roadside Station Nemuro Roadside Station Details Located along National Route 44—the eastern gateway to Nemuro City— Nemuro Roadside Station has been welcoming travelers since its official registration on August 27, 1999 , as Hokkaido's 59th roadside station . Located in a place that preserves the charm of untouched nature, this roadside stop offers more than just a break from the road—it provides an immersive introduction to Nemuro’s wild beauty and rich seafood culture. Nemuro Roadside Station - Nemuro City, Hokkaido Prefecture One of the station’s standout features is its panoramic glassed-in viewing area, where visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Furen and Shunkunitai , two of Japan’s top birdw...
Roadside Station “Utoro-Shirietoko” ( 道の駅 うとろ・シリエトク ) is one of the roadside stations of Hokkaido. It is located at 186-8 Utoronishi in the town of Shari, Shari District in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan . Roadside Station “Utoro-Shirietoko” Roadside Station “Utoro-Shirietoko” Details Located along National Route 334 in Hokkaido, Roadside Station "Utoro-Shirietoko" is a must-visit destination for travelers heading to the breathtaking Shiretoko Peninsula. Officially registered on March 1, 2007 (Registration No. 99) , this uniquely designed roadside station resembles a traditional fisherman's watchtower, symbolizing the area's deep connection to the sea. Roadside Station "Utoro-Shrientoko" - Shari town, Hokkaido Prefecture A Key Tourism Base in Shiretoko Situated at the entrance of the Shiretoko World Natural Heritage Site , this roadside station serves as a central hub for visitors. It offers essential tourist services, local delicacies, and cultural ...
Shiretoko Rausu Roadside Station ( 道の駅 知床·らうす ) is one of the roadside stations of Hokkaido. It is located along National Road 335 at 361-1 Honcho in the town of Rausu, Menashi District, Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan . Shiretoko Rausu Roadside Station Shiretoko Rausu Roadside Station details Located along National Route 335 , Shiretoko Rausu Roadside Station is a must-visit stop on the Rausu side of the Shiretoko Peninsula , registered as an official roadside station on August 27, 1999 (Registration No. 63). Shiretoko Rausu Roadside Station - Rausu town, Hokkaido Prefecture Conveniently located between the Nemuro Strait and the towering Mount Rausu (1,661 meters), this travel hub offers visitors an immersive experience in nature, culture, and cuisine — all while serving as a launching point for exploring the UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site of Shiretoko . Welcome to Shiretoko Rausu Roadside Station A Scenic and Strategic Location Rausu is known as a "castle town ...
Hamanaka - The Hometown of Lupin the Third Tucked away in the eastern edge of Hokkaido lies a quiet coastal town that has captured the imagination of anime fans across the globe— Hamanaka ( 浜中町 ) . Surrounded by untouched wetlands, rugged coastlines, and fields that roll into the horizon, this small town may seem unassuming at first glance. But for fans of Japanese pop culture, Hamanaka holds a special title: The Hometown of Monkey Punch , the legendary manga artist behind Lupin III . The Origins of a Legend Monkey Punch , whose real name was Kazuhiko Katō , was born in Hamanaka in 1937. It was here, in the windswept lands of eastern Hokkaido, that he nurtured his creativity and eventually gave life to one of Japan’s most iconic fictional characters: Arsène Lupin III —a witty, charming master thief inspired by Maurice Leblanc’s original French gentleman thief. Arsène Lupin III , more popularly known simply as Lupin III Since Lupin III first appeared ...
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