Renjō-ji Temple

Place of worship • 45 Nishikiderachō, Nara, 630-8307, Japan

4.2(76 reviews)

Experience the Hidden Gem of Nara, Ryosen-ji

A Temple Transmitting the Miracle of Tenpyo

Ryosen-ji is a venerable temple founded by Gyoki during the Tenpyo period at the behest of Emperor Shomu. The white-wooded Amida Nyorai standing statue enshrined in the main hall is designated as a national treasure and is said to have been modeled after Empress Komyo. The 'hakama exchange ceremony,' held once every 50 years, is a rare opportunity to witness the essence of traditional Japanese craftsmanship.

Historical Aura in the Tranquil Garden

Walking along the approach to the main hall leads to a tranquil temple precinct. The stone-paved path opens up to a garden adorned with seasonal flowers. Strolling through the beautiful garden, one can experience a non-everyday space as if time has stopped. Watching the swallows soar and the butterflies dance among the flowers, one will surely encounter unforgettable moments.

Embracing the Ancient Capital's Emotions in the Lodging Area

Ryosen-ji features lodging areas where the general public can stay. The detached lodging houses retain a Japanese-style ambiance and are equipped with kitchen-dining facilities. In the morning, guests can even participate in the morning service with the monks, allowing them to experience a day in the temple. Here, one can spend a splendid time immersed in the nostalgic atmosphere of ancient Nara.

Whether to pay homage to the hidden white-wooded Amida Nyorai, stroll through the historically rich garden, or immerse oneself in tranquility at the lodging area, Ryosen-ji in Nara is a place filled with charm suitable for various purposes. Why not take the opportunity to visit this hidden gem, whether as part of sightseeing or as a luxurious experiential journey?

Tourist attraction Place of worship Point of interest Establishment

Reviews

5(8 months ago)

Kat Y. Tang

I has the most incredible stay here with my family. The temple is so serene and beautiful that you feel the peace wash over you from the moment you step through the gate. But what made the stay one of my top ever was the hospitality. Not only did the hostess pick us up from the train station, she also provided many recommendations and her mother, the head priest, offered us drinks and snacks at night. In the morning we had an amazing breakfast (perhaps the best in all Japan!) and were able to participate in a morning prayer. Overall it was a unique and warm experience that we will carry with us forever. I am already hoping to come back to nara not for the deer or temples, but to stay at this temple again!

5(4 years ago)

Atzuo Itzujee (At-Chan)

Said to be succeeding the history of ancient "Kidera temple" which was build by the order of Emperor in 8C. "Kidera" became the name of this area. Very worth visiting as its garden is so beautiful and cozy. Famous Buddhist image is "Female Amitabha Tathagata" not wearing top clothing, which only can be seen during May annually.

5(in the last week)

Nori Oza

I visited here after learning that the statue of Amitabha Tathagata, a hidden Buddha, is specially opened to the public every May. At the main hall, there is an audio guide first, and then The staff gave a very detailed explanation. The garden was beautiful and the flowers were blooming and smelled very nice. In the exhibition room behind the main hall, it is displayed in a glass case. The hakama, the robe worn by the standing statue of Amida Nyorai, was on display, and I was able to get a closer look at it.

4(2 weeks ago)

岸田美砂子

The standing statue of Amida Nyorai in the temple opened by Gyoki is said to be a rare female Buddha modeled after Empress Komyo. Once every 50 years, an unmarried woman Two people exchange hakama The door was opened at times, Currently, the doors are only open in May every year. is. The garden inside the temple was very beautiful, with a stone shaped like a heart ❤️ and various flowers blooming.

5(4 weeks ago)

Yoshinori Sugiura

During a special visit in May, I had the pleasure of visiting the white statue of Amida Nyorai. Inside the hall, I was given a very detailed explanation of the temple's origin, Buddhist statues, etc., and I was able to understand it deeply. Also, the staff were very kind, and I could feel that this is a temple that is loved by everyone, and that it is a Buddhist temple. Since it was a Jodo Shinshu temple, I was wondering if I would be able to receive a stamp, but I was able to receive one in person. For the first time, I learned that the place name of this area, ``Ki-dera,'' came from this temple.

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