Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple – How to Visit the Temple of a Thousand Faces!

One of my favourite temples I visited in Japan was the Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple in Arashiyama.

It’s affectionately known as the Temple of a Thousand Faces because it contains 1,200 enchanting Rakan statues. 

These disciples, eternally carved in stone, represent Buddhist pilgrims from all walks of life. 

It makes for a fascinating day trip from Kyoto in the remote Arashiyama hills. 

My friend and I visited during momiji season, and the sacred complex was a riot of autumn colours, making it a paradise for photography.

Here is a complete guide for visiting the whimsical Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple in Arashiyama.

Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple history

This temple has had a long and complex history. The original Otagi temple was constructed in 766 on the orders of Empress Shotoku in Gion.

Unfortunately, that complex washed away during a great flood, and so it was rebuilt on the elevated Arashiyama hills.

Senkan Naigu, a Tendai sect priest, was responsible for re-establishing the temple in the 10th century.

He carved a statue of the Yaku-yoke Senju Kannon to ward away unlucky spirits. 

After a millennium, this temple gained the nickname ‘Temple of a Thousand Faces‘ under the guidance of Kocho Nishimura.

The Temple of a Thousand Faces

Today, this Tendai temple is famous because it’s home to over 1200 whimsical Rakan statues.

They represent all types of Buddhist disciples and were created from the artistic vision of Kocho Nishimura.

He was a Buddhist monk and sculptor who became the chief of the temple in 1955 and started the sacred project.

The stone statues were carved by everyday pilgrims who sought guidance from Nishimura.

He advised them to conjure and carve unique figures from all walks of life.

You’ll find some in serious prayer, but many are laughing, with their pets, or playing music. It’s an interesting mix of people; such is everyday life. 

Kocho Nishimura passed away in 2003, but his son and grandson continue this legacy.  

Otagi Nenbutsuji is now affectionately known as the Temple of a Thousand Faces, and you must visit this unique complex in Arashiyama. 

How to get to Otagi Nenbutsuji from Kyoto

Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple is located in Arashiyama, which is a popular day trip from Kyoto.

From Kyoto Station, it takes about 20 minutes to reach Arashiyama by JR train, or you can take the purple Keifuku Randen Tram (it’s so cute).

If you decide to take the tram, you’ll arrive at Arashiyama Station, which is right on the main shopping street. 

From the tram station, you’ll need to walk around 40-45 minutes to Saga Toriimoto Preserved Street to visit Otagi Nentusuji.

If you opt for the train, you will need to walk for around 60 minutes from JR Saga-Arashiyama Station to the temple.

Saga Toriimoto Preserved Street

This preserved street was one of my favourite areas of Arashiyama as it’s a peaceful, remote area filled with historic temples and cafés. 

Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple is at the very top of this street, but be prepared for an uphill climb. 

My friend and I were left breathless by the end of it. Thankfully, the temple was worth the effort. 

If you’d rather not walk. You can also take the 9 2 or 9 4 northbound bus from Arashiyama Station to Otagidera-mae.

This bus stop is almost opposite the temple entrance, so it’s very convenient.

Taxis can also take you there directly, but these can be expensive as they add lots of extra charges.

Opening hours and entry fees

Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple is typically open from 9 am – 4 pm. But it is closed on Saturdays and Wednesdays. 

I recommend checking the latest opening hours on the website before you go to avoid disappointment.

Tickets cost ¥1000 per person, and entry is free for children under 10 years of age. 

The admission fee has to be paid in cash only. Make sure to have some small notes with you, as there are no ATMs near the temple.

Things to see in Otagi Nenbutsuji

As soon as you arrive at the temple entrance, you’ll find two fierce Nio statues that guard the gate.

After you’ve paid for your ticket, you can step inside and find the main temple complex by walking up the stairs towards the Main Hall.

There are plenty of things to see in Otagi Nenbutsuji that make it worth a visit. Here’s what you can expect. 

1. 1200 Rakan Statues

The most magical part of visiting this temple is seeing the thousands of Rakan statues all over the sacred complex.

Every stone disciple is unique and tells a different story. You can see them praying, laughing, playing music or reading a book. I even saw a cat.

Over the years, these statues have been consumed by nature, and many of them are covered in green moss. 

It gives it a haunting atmosphere that I found utterly charming. I could have spent all day capturing these quirky petrified characters. 

2. Main Hall

Otagi Nenbutsuji is of the Tandei sect of Buddhism, and the Main Hall contains a statue of Yaku-yoke Senju Kannon.

This is the thousand-armed Kannon Boddhisattva that traditionally protects against bad luck.

There is also a statue of Kimie Nishimura, who protects expectant mothers, and you can pray for safe childbirth. 

You have to take your shoes off to enter the hall. Also, photography of the statues is not allowed in this part of the temple.  

3. Pagodas, Shrines and Torii Gates

Something that I loved about visiting this temple was its remoteness in the Arashiyama hills.

It was a lush paradise filled with colourful foliage. There were many pagodas containing smaller shrines and statues.

You can climb up the stairs to find gardens, water features and torii gates. There was something beautiful to find around every corner. 

4. Rakan Photo Zones

Before you leave Otagi Nenbutsuji, you must get some photos with the Rakan statue displays.

They have created a series of photo zones at the exit where you can queue up to get a picture. 

Of course, you can get pictures with these incredible statues all over the temple. But these areas have been created especially for posing. 

I thought this was nice, as you can be sure you’re taking photos respectfully and not disturbing anyone’s prayer. 

There can sometimes be a queue for these. But I thought it was worth waiting for. 

Is Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple worth visiting?

Yes, Otagi Nenbutsuji was easily one of my favourite temples I visited in Japan and left a lasting impression.

This atmospheric complex is unlike anything I’ve ever visited before, and I would go back in a heartbeat.

I could have spent hours admiring all the whimsical statues and capturing the vibrant autumn leaves. 

Don’t miss the Temple of a Thousand Faces in Arashiyama. It’s a peaceful, sacred retreat away from the crowds. 

When is the best time to visit?

I don’t think there is a ‘bad’ time to visit Otagi Nenbutsuji; it’s a gorgeous place of worship you can visit all year.

However, I thought that our visit during momiji season was especially spectacular due to all the colourful trees.

It was a riot of colour that made the complex come alive and made it a paradise for photography. 

How long do you need to visit?

The temple complex is not overly large, so I would say you could see everything in an hour comfortably. 

If it’s particularly crowded during your visit, you may need a little longer if there are queues. 

Of course, you could spend a lot longer here if you’re enjoying finding all the charismatic statues that call this temple home.

Important visitor tips 

• The temple complex is not overly large, so it can become quickly congested at busy times. 

• You should bring cash to pay for the temple entry fee. There are no ATMs near the temple.

• There’s a stall selling gorgeous Arhat-themed amulets and tokens at the main entrance.

• Remember, this is a place of worship. Please be respectful when visiting and taking photos/videos.

Adashino Nenbutsuji Temple

Another temple I highly recommend visiting on the preserved street is Adashino Nenbutsuji Temple.

It was founded by the venerable monk Kukai in the 8th century and contains 8,000 stone images.

They have been placed here to commemorate the souls of those who have passed without family or kin. 

At the back of the temple grounds, you can find a gorgeous bamboo forest, which is off the radar for most tourists. 

We got some beautiful photos here in the late afternoon. There was barely anyone there, and it was so peaceful.

Admission to the temple is ¥500 in cash, but it’s worth every penny to visit this peaceful bamboo grove without the masses. 

Other places to visit in Arashiyama

Most visitors head to Arashiyama to visit the famous Sagano Bamboo Forest. But there are plenty of places to visit otherwise.

I would set aside an entire day in your Japan itinerary as there are almost too many temples, art galleries, cafés, and beauty spots to find. 

I highly recommend a stroll along the Katsura River to visit the stunning Togetsukyō Bridge and Yusai-Tei Gallery.

You can then head to Saga Toriimoto Preserved Street for hidden temples before visiting the Sagano Bamboo Forest.

Don’t forget to look out for Tanuki while you’re here. They are a raccoon dog whose money bags are thought to bring good luck.

The main shopping street is crowded but has many incredible shops, restaurants and cafés.

You can visit the Miffy Bakery, Rilakkuma Teahouse and Snoopy Chocolat Shop. 

When the sun goes down, don’t miss the illuminated Kimono Forest trail by the Keifuku Randen Tram station. It’s utterly magical.

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