Built in the late 8th century and relocated in the early 20th century, Otaji Nenbutsu-ji stands out from other Buddhist temples as it boasts over 1,200 hand carved stone Rakan sculptures. Each unique and created by numerous monks over time, the statues are lined up as you make your way up and down the temple grounds. Accessible by bus from Arashiyama, Sanjo, and Kyoto Stations, Otaji Nenbutsu-ji is a less traveled tourist spot that offers a relaxing atmosphere and entertaining buddha.
- 1 min read
Otaji Nenbutsu-ji
Over a thousand buddha tucked away in western Kyoto
Community writer
An extremely elated buddha
The entrance gate to Otaji Nenbutsu-ji
Drawing one of the statues on a fine day
Two statues saying kanpai
Make a prayer at the temple's small tori
Visitors leave coins on statue's heads for good luck
Rarely frequented by foreigners, this temple is much less crowded compared to the majority in Kyoto
A gold buddha amongst the stone
Choose your favorite Rakan sculpture amongst the thousands lined up along the temple's hills
Information
16-8439 Kyoto Prefecture, Kyoto, Ukyo Ward, Sagatoriimoto Fukatanicho, 2−5 (Directions)
075-865-1231
Join the discussion
Elena Lisina
5 years ago
So interesting sculptures! And they look like old ones!
1 comment in total
Book your trip
Find a nearby hotel
Explore some of the best nearby hotels and deals for the perfect place to stay in Japan.
Top Articles
-
1Arima Onsen: One of Japan’s Oldest Hot Spring Towns
Hyogo - Sponsored -
2Explore Ako, Tatsuno, and Himeji with Ease From Kamenoi Hotel Ako
Hyogo - Sponsored -
3Miyoko Schinner: Japan Vegan Tour 2026
Food -
4Photogenic Miyazaki: Relaxation and Discovery
Miyazaki - Sponsored -
5A Journey Through an Edo Castle Town From Art Hotel Narita
Chiba - Sponsored -
6Golden Route to West Japan: Hiroshima & Fukuoka
Hiroshima - Sponsored -
7Japan Pottery Tour: Hands-On Workshops & Artisan Encounters
Culture -
824-Hour Yaro Ramen in Shibuya Revolutionizes Noodles With an All New Type of Ramen Taking Over Tokyo
Tokyo - Sponsored -
9Ultimate Japan Car Culture Journey - From Auto Salon 2026 to the Open Road
Chiba -
10Wintertime Magic in Otaru, Hokkaido
Hokkaido - Sponsored
-
1Guide to Bringing Medicines Into Japan
Planning -
2The Ultimate Guide to Thrifting in Tokyo
Shopping -
3Yodogawa Fireworks Festival
Osaka -
4Your Name: Real-Life Locations in Tokyo
Tokyo -
5Bad Bunny Debí Tirar Más Fotos World Tour
Tokyo -
6Tokyo Christmas Market
Tokyo -
7Japanese Urban Legends
Culture -
8Tokyo Auto Salon
Chiba -
9Nabana no Sato Illumination
Mie -
10Daikoku Car Meet
Kanagawa