ABOUT
About this spot
Kozanji is a temple deep in the mountains of Togano-o, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, beyond Jingoji Temple. It is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto, and its precinct is a nationally designated Historic Site. In 1206 the Kegon priest Myoe received this land from Retired Emperor Go-Toba, which is regarded as the founding of the temple. The Sekisuiin hall is a National Treasure building from the Kamakura period. The temple also preserves the National Treasure Choju-jinbutsu-giga, famous animal caricature scrolls often seen as an ancestor of Japanese manga, although the originals are kept at national museums and the temple shows copies. A stone monument marks what is called Japan's oldest tea garden, according to tradition planted with seeds from the priest Eisai. Per the official site, the temple is open 8:30 to 17:00. Admission to Sekisuiin is 1,000 yen for adults and 500 yen for elementary school students, with an extra 500 yen mountain entry fee in autumn. Take a JR Bus from Kyoto Station (about 55 minutes) to Togano-o.
Last updated October 23, 2026