Kyoto Sennyu-ji: A Journey of Nature, Silence, and the Seven Lucky Gods

Just one stop by train from Kyoto Station lies a world apart—a sanctuary of rich nature and profound silence, completely cut off from the city's bustle. This is the Sennyu-ji area, a hidden gem where beautiful forests and historic temples exist in perfect harmony.

This tour is a quiet walking journey through this lush area, visiting the scattered temples enshrined with the "Seven Lucky Gods." You will walk along approaches surrounded by trees, enjoying the natural scenery as you move from temple to temple.

Listen to the sounds of the forest, stand face-to-face with majestic Buddha statues, and conclude your journey by savoring matcha in a tranquil garden. This is a luxurious opportunity to align your mind and body. Enjoy a moment in Kyoto that belongs only to you, undisturbed by the crowds.

Important Note
This tour involves walking along temple approaches surrounded by nature. As there are unpaved areas and slopes, please participate with an active mindset, akin to enjoying a light hike. We strongly recommend wearing sneakers or comfortable walking shoes and clothes suitable for a forest stroll.

The "Seven Lucky Gods" (Shichifukujin) are seven deities worshipped in Japan since ancient times as bringers of good fortune. Their unique characteristic is that they share roots in different countries and religions—India (Hinduism), China (Buddhism/Taoism), and Japan (Shinto)—yet coexist peacefully. This diversity symbolizes the Japanese spirit of harmony and tolerance.

While there are several "Seven Lucky Gods" pilgrimages in Kyoto, most require traveling across the entire city and take a full day to complete. However, the "Senzan Seven Lucky Gods" are unique because all the deities are enshrined within the temples of this single mountain area. Taking advantage of this location, we will smoothly visit several temples to touch upon the stories of these gods and Buddhas while immersed in nature.

Sokujo-in Temple
This temple is connected to Nasu no Yoichi, the hero from the famous samurai epic The Tale of the Heike, known for shooting a fan atop a rocking boat. The main hall features 25 golden Bodhisattva statues playing instruments, creating an overwhelming sight that resembles a celestial orchestra of the Pure Land.

Kaiko-ji Temple
Here you will find a massive Buddha statue attributed to the school of Unkei, the most famous sculptor in Japanese history (known for the guardians at Todaiji in Nara). The approximately 10-meter tall Shakyamuni Buddha is worshipped as a "substitute" Buddha, filled with deep compassion to take on the people's suffering.

Imakumano Kannon-ji Temple
A vivid vermilion bridge stands against the forest green, serving as a spiritual boundary between the everyday world and the sacred realm. Across the bridge lies a quiet precinct where you will encounter the Kannon deity, believed to cure headaches and illnesses, and Ebisu, the god of business prosperity.

Mitera Sennyu-ji Temple
As the family temple (Bodaiji) of the Imperial House, this location holds a noble silence distinct from other temples. It houses a beautiful Kannon statue modeled after Yang Guifei (one of the Three Beauties of the World), attracting those seeking blessings for beauty and love.

Unryu-in Temple
Here resides the unique "Running Daikokuten," a deity depicted wearing straw sandals who protects the kitchen and family safety. You will spend a special time viewing the garden through the "Window of Enlightenment" (round) and "Window of Confusion" (square)—which express Zen inquiries—while enjoying matcha in the silence.

◎English-speaking local guide
◎Admission fees for temples
◎Matcha tea at Unryu-in
×Transportation costs

9:00 – Sennyu-ji Somon (Main Gate)

9:05 – Sokujo-in

9:30 – Kaiko-ji

9:45 – Imakumano Kannon-ji

10:15 – Sennyu-ji (Main Temple)

11:00 – Unryu-in (Matcha Experience)

12:00 – Tour Ends

・Your reservation will be confirmed once you receive a reply from Sharing Kyoto.
・Please book at least 2 day in advance.
・Participants must be 18 or older. Minors need parental consent, and children must be accompanied by an adult.
・The tour includes walking on uneven paths, slopes, and steps.　Please wear comfortable shoes.
・The experience may be modified or postponed due to traffic or other unforeseen conditions.
・Survey responses or reviews may be shared on our website or social media.

・Free of charge for cancellations up to 3 days prior to the tour date, 100% for cancellations 2 days or less prior to the tour date.
・Special Cases (Natural disaster, virus, etc.): Full refund.
・Transaction fees for refunds in the event of cancellation will be borne by the customer.
・Please contact us if you will be more than 5 minutes late. If you are late without notice, we may have to treat your booking as a cancellation. Please be aware of this policy.