The temple is nice, but the real reason to visit is for the gardens. They are beautiful and peaceful and very old. The tranquility of these places is such that my nine year old (who was not with me on the trip) LOVES the pictures of these gardens because, she says, they are so pretty. They're even prettier in person!

This is by far one of the highlights of my trip. Make sure you visit this garden (500yen entry fee). It is the OLDEST garden in Japan and they have kept it exactly as it was designed in 1500's! The best part? a set vegatarian lunch served overlooking the garden dubbed as "Japan's national treasure". Only 3000 yen and served... More

Although Kyoto does not feel busy, the Arashiyama area feels very peaceful and relaxing by comparison. A very worthy World Heritage Site to experience.

This temple is somewhat involved to get to as it is in Arashiyama which is not part of the central Kyoto bus route. It is very popular with Japanese tourists and can be very crowded which detracts from its claim to Zen fame. It is a place with amazing gardens and famous for its vegan set lunch. But the lunch... More

The highlight of this temple complex is the garden pond conceptualized by the legendary Muso Soseki (Japanese garden designer). It is impressive as it blends with the Arashiyama mountain serving as a back-drop especially during autumn time... When you view it from the inside of the wooden temple, the perspective of the pond is different, thus it is a must.

I visited Tenryuji for my family event. The garden was kept very clean & tidy. Inside the temple's building you will see a range of masterpiecel. If anyone interested in an authentic vegetarian food, the restaurant "Shigetsu” inside this temple is the place to try.

Best to wander and take in the various smaller temples as well as the Main Hall and also the beautiful gardens,laid out originally in the 14th.century.Not to be missed afterwards is to exit at the top end of the gardens into the bamboo forest with the breath taking path. Deservedly a Unesco World Heritage Site!

For an extra 100 yen (600 vs 500) you can not only enter the garden area, but the palace area as well. This will allow you to sit down in the temple at take a nice break to rest your feet and enjoy the atmosphere. The temple and gardens are great, and there is a nice sand garden in front... More

We paid 500+100 yen for both the temple and garden. Nothing much to see at both the sites. Better gardens in Nijo Castle.