Wander through the dreamlike bamboo groves of Jōraku-ji Temple, where every step feels like walking through a living haiku. Sunlight filters through swaying stalks, casting dancing shadows on the mossy path. The rustling leaves, the distant temple bell—this is not just scenery, it’s meditation in motion. Sit quietly in the garden, sip matcha, and rediscover stillness in a world that never stops moving.

Everything you need to know about Chikurinji
Kyoto Keisen-kyo Villa Hotel is a top choice located just steps from Zhulin Temple, blending traditional Japanese architecture with modern elegance. Guests enjoy serene views of bamboo groves and meticulously designed gardens from their rooms. The hotel offers complimentary bicycles for exploring nearby temples and scenic trails. Daily morning meditation sessions are also available, providing an immersive experience in Japanese tea ceremony and Zen philosophy. Conveniently located within a 5-minute walk of the nearest bus stop, it ensures easy access to central Kyoto attractions without transfers.
Gion Sanzogen Do Hotel Kyoto offers excellent accessibility, located just a 10-minute walk from Zhulin Temple with multiple bus routes connecting directly to Fushimi Inari, Nishiki Market, and Gion district. The hotel features traditional wooden structures and tatami rooms, capturing authentic Kyoto charm. It provides personalized guided tours for early-morning temple visits, helping guests avoid crowds. Some guest rooms include private courtyards where you can enjoy morning bamboo shadows. On-site Japanese restaurant serves exquisite kaiseki cuisine made with locally sourced seasonal ingredients, offering a true taste of Kyoto's culinary heritage.
Near Zhulin Temple, guests can participate in morning bamboo meditation and tea ceremony workshops led by experienced monks, covering breathing techniques, mindfulness practices, and matcha tasting. Held at 6:30 AM amidst the quiet bamboo grove, these sessions offer profound spiritual renewal. Additionally, the hotel partners with local artisans to offer bamboo craft workshops, where visitors learn to weave bamboo baskets or create simple bamboo lanterns under expert guidance. These hands-on activities deepen understanding of Japanese traditions and provide lasting mementos of your journey.
Stay at Kyoto Bamboo Stay, a boutique ryokan nestled just a 5-minute walk from Zenrin-ji Temple. Each room features a private Japanese garden view, offering tranquil mornings filled with birdsong and rustling bamboo leaves. The property offers authentic tea ceremony workshops and guided zen meditation sessions, deepening guests’ connection to Kyoto’s spiritual heritage.
Located near the "Zenrin-ji-mae" bus stop, it provides convenient access via Kyoto City Bus and airport shuttle services. With limited guest capacity, the inn ensures privacy and serenity—perfect for travelers seeking mindfulness and cultural immersion.
Walk 8 minutes from Zenrin-ji Temple to Seiran Teahouse, a hidden gem housed in a renovated historic residence. Renowned for its handmade matcha and wagashi sweets, the tea house features minimalist decor using seasonal bamboo, evoking the lingering spirit of the bamboo grove.
Visit early morning for the limited-edition spring matcha dessert set, paired with views of the surrounding bamboo forest for a moment of stillness. Alternatively, take a short bus ride to "Higashiyama Gojō" station, then a 10-minute taxi to Ichijō-an, a traditional tea ceremony space dedicated to handcrafted tea utensils and refined tea rituals—favored by scholars and connoisseurs.
The secluded trail known as Yūkoku no Michi (Path of the Hidden Valley), located behind Zenrin-ji Temple, stretches 300 meters through towering bamboo groves. Sunlight filters through the canopy in dappled patterns, creating ethereal, dreamlike scenes perfect for photography—especially during morning mist or golden hour.
Access is restricted to visitors following designated routes, preserving its tranquility. Nearby, the Senbon Bamboo Grove courtyard hosts a daily Bamboo Dance Ceremony from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, where dancers in plain kimonos move gracefully among the bamboo shadows, embodying traditional Japanese aesthetics.
Bring a DSLR or mirrorless camera with a tripod to capture the interplay of motion and stillness in this timeless setting.
See what other travelers say about Chikurinji

Staying at Mercure Kyoto Station was a pleasant surprise. Located just steps from Kyoto Station, the hotel offers unbeatable convenience for travelers exploring the city—just walk out the door and you're right in the heart of the action. While the rooms aren't flashy, they're clean, well-maintained, and equipped with everything you need for a comfortable stay. The staff were friendly and helpful throughout our visit, making check-in and check-out smooth. One thing that stood out was the international vibe—many guests were from abroad, which gave the atmosphere a calm, quiet feel. Even with the station nearby, the hotel remained peaceful, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing. For its location, price point, and reliable service, this is a solid choice if you're looking for a no-fuss, convenient base in Kyoto.

Staying at Six Senses Kyoto was an absolute highlight of my trip to Japan. From the moment I walked in, the warm and thoughtful Japanese hospitality stood out—staff were polite, attentive, and genuinely welcoming without being overbearing. The hotel itself feels fresh and modern, with a strong emphasis on sustainability woven into every detail, from the food and drinks to the design. I couldn’t book the spa (it’s famously popular), but the on-site hot spring was a wonderful alternative—perfect for unwinding after a long day. The omakase restaurant downstairs was an unforgettable experience; watching the chef craft each piece of sushi with such precision and care felt like art in motion. Even though I had the place mostly to myself during dinner and drinks at the bar, service remained impeccable and personal. Breakfast was a half-self-service spread—I enjoyed the Western-style options, though the omelette could’ve been fluffier. The Japanese rice was excellent, and while other dishes were just average, the welcome fruits and little pastries added a sweet touch, even if they didn’t quite hit the mark flavor-wise. A small disappointment: no welcome champagne, but that’s just a minor note in what was otherwise a flawless stay. If you’re looking for a serene, eco-conscious retreat with exceptional service and culinary charm, this is it.

The location is excellent—just a short walk from Kyoto Station, making it super convenient for exploring the city and getting around by train. The hotel is spotlessly clean with all the essentials you’d expect, and the room amenities are well thought out. The only minor downside is that the two beds are placed side by side, which might not be ideal if you prefer more space between sleeping areas. One thing to note: after booking online, there’s an additional tax to pay upon check-in—I initially thought it was a deposit and even asked the front desk for a refund at checkout, only to get a confused look in return! Lesson learned. Also, if you want housekeeping service, make sure to place a sign outside your door—unlike some hotels back home, they don’t automatically assume cleaning is needed. Overall, this is a great stay with strong value for money, especially given the central location and clean, modern rooms. I’d definitely recommend it.

Absolutely loved my stay! The hotel is perfectly located right next to major attractions, making it super convenient to explore Kyoto's top sights without needing to travel far. The room was clean, comfortable, and well-equipped with modern amenities. I appreciated the quiet atmosphere and the thoughtful touches that made the experience feel personal. Being just steps away from local charm and culture made the whole trip even more memorable. Highly recommend this spot for travelers who want a peaceful retreat while staying in the heart of the action.

Staying at Kamo Residences by Reflections felt like coming home—warm, inviting, and full of thoughtful touches that made our trip unforgettable. Every detail, from the quiet garden nook on the first floor with its subtle fragrance to the serene view of the Kamo River just outside, created a peaceful retreat. The fresh air and natural beauty were invigorating—every breath felt like recharging your soul. The platform’s VIP group was incredibly helpful, offering personalized recommendations for restaurants and local spots we wouldn’t have found otherwise. It’s rare to find such comfort, charm, and genuine hospitality in one place. If we ever return to Kyoto, this will be our first choice again.

Staying here for three nights was an absolute delight! The hotel is incredibly clean and well-maintained, with a warm, authentic Japanese atmosphere that made us feel right at home. The breakfast was a standout—each morning brought a slightly different selection, keeping things fresh and enjoyable. I especially appreciated the friendly and attentive staff at the front desk; two of the ladies were genuinely helpful and went out of their way to assist us with any concerns. Their kindness truly enhanced our experience. Located just a short walk from major attractions like Gion and Fushimi Inari, it’s super convenient for exploring Kyoto. This place offers excellent value and comfort—definitely a top pick for anyone visiting the city.

Staying at The Machiya Kazahaya was an absolute delight! This charming, standalone machiya-style house is a true gem—compact yet spacious, with six rooms across two floors. We were on the second floor, which included two private rooms, a fully equipped kitchen (stove, microwave, cookware), and a well-designed bathroom split into three zones: toilet, shower with a bathtub, and sink—all very practical. The entrance room had a long table with a TV and a cozy sofa area that could easily sleep multiple people, while the other room featured a large tatami mat with two sets of bedding—perfect for four guests. The sliding doors provided good privacy between spaces. The entire place was spotlessly clean and secure, with a simple password entry system. It’s just a 10–15 minute walk to four subway stations, making it super convenient for exploring Kyoto. Ideal for families or groups of friends looking for comfort, convenience, and authentic local charm without breaking the bank.

Staying at Rinn Premium Kunpu was an absolute delight from start to finish. The property is part of a trusted chain, and the renovation truly shines—modern touches blend seamlessly with traditional Kyoto charm, echoing the serene aesthetic of the nearby Shōhō-ji Temple. The private onsen-style bath in the courtyard garden was a highlight, especially for my kids who loved soaking in the tranquil space. The bedding was incredibly comfortable, and after a long day of exploring, a warm soak before bed was the perfect way to unwind. It’s just a 10-minute walk to Kyoto Station, and waking up to the gentle chimes of the temple bell outside the window added a peaceful, meditative start to each morning. I’ll definitely be returning to this gem on my next trip to Kyoto—authentic, calming, and effortlessly elegant.

Staying at The Prince Kyoto Takaragaike, Autograph Collection was an absolute delight. The atmosphere is wonderfully serene and peaceful—every corner of the hotel feels thoughtfully designed and impeccably clean. I especially appreciated the breakfast spread: fresh, flavorful Japanese dishes like silky miso soup and perfectly grilled fish made my mornings truly special. The location is fantastic—just a short walk to nearby temples and excellent access to subway lines for exploring other parts of Kyoto. The quiet, cozy ambiance made it feel like a true retreat from the city’s hustle. It's rare to find such comfort, convenience, and charm all in one place. This isn’t just a hotel—it’s a memorable experience. I’ll definitely be back.

Staying at this hotel was absolutely one of the best decisions I made during my trip to Kyoto. The location is perfect—just a short walk from major attractions like Gion and Fushimi Inari, and public transportation is super convenient. The building itself won a design award, and it shows in every detail—from the thoughtful layout to the elegant finishes. My room had a private bathroom, but what really stood out was the on-site Japanese-style bath with a soaking tub, plus an outdoor hot spring pool that felt magical under the night sky. The room also came stocked with drinks including beer, wine, and coffee, and even had a high-end fridge and a laundry machine—so much convenience! It’s rare to find such a peaceful yet well-equipped retreat in the heart of Kyoto. I’d come back in a heartbeat.

Check-in was a bit tricky since it's a self-service property, and neither the platform nor the hotel sent me the necessary check-in details in advance, so I had to figure things out on arrival. That said, the property itself is incredibly stylish and upscale—very well-designed with a modern, elegant vibe. A few spots were a bit dusty, so a deeper clean would help. There’s no TV, which is a bit unusual, but everything else is solid: great location near Gion, super convenient for exploring Kyoto by subway, and overall a good value for the price. Would stay again if I’m back in the city.

Staying at Ryokan Yoshida-Sanso was an absolute delight from start to finish. The moment I stepped into the traditional Japanese room, I could feel the warmth of history—this place truly feels like a living piece of the Shōwa era, carefully preserved and lovingly maintained. The quiet atmosphere made it perfect for relaxing, and the view from the window was simply breathtaking, offering a peaceful escape right in the heart of Kyoto. What stood out most was how seamlessly modern comforts were blended with old-world charm—everything from the air conditioning to the bathroom fixtures felt up-to-date without compromising the authentic vibe. The kaiseki-style meals were exceptional: beautifully presented, delicious, and each dish came with thoughtfully chosen tableware that added to the experience. And don’t miss the on-site café, Shinkokkan—it’s cozy, stylish, and perfect for a quiet afternoon coffee. This isn’t just a stay; it’s a memory-in-the-making. Highly recommend for anyone seeking a serene, culturally rich, and comfortable retreat in Kyoto.
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