Items | Kyoto Daikakuji Temple and Heart Sutra Copying Experience
Kyoto Daikakuji Temple and Heart Sutra Copying Experience
Important Information
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Public transportation options are available nearby
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Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
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Cut-off times are based on the experience’s local time.
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If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
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This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
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Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
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Step inside Daikakuji, a former imperial villa turned temple, and discover one of Kyoto’s most graceful sacred spaces. This private experience goes beyond sightseeing: you will learn about the temple’s imperial history, Shingon Buddhist traditions, and its deep connection to the Heart Sutra before copying the sutra yourself in a quiet temple setting. With an English-speaking guide by your side, you can enjoy the ritual with context, confidence, and a deeper appreciation of Kyoto’s spiritual culture.
Highlights
2 hours
Offered in English
Free Cancellation
Mobile Ticket
2 hours
Offered in English
Free Cancellation
Mobile Ticket
What's Included
Daikakuji Temple admission fee
English-speaking guide
Heart Sutra copying experience fee
Transportation to and from the meeting point
Meals
Meeting Points
Departure
Please meet in front of the main gate of Daikakuji Temple. Your guide will be waiting holding a yellow sign. Please check the meeting point on the map before the tour starts.
Return
Kyoto Daikakuji Temple and Heart Sutra Copying Experience
About
Step inside Daikakuji, a former imperial villa turned temple, and discover one of Kyoto’s most graceful sacred spaces. This private experience goes beyond sightseeing: you will learn about the temple’s imperial history, Shingon Buddhist traditions, and its deep connection to the Heart Sutra before copying the sutra yourself in a quiet temple setting. With an English-speaking guide by your side, you can enjoy the ritual with context, confidence, and a deeper appreciation of Kyoto’s spiritual culture.
Highlights
2 hours
Offered in English
Free Cancellation
Mobile Ticket
2 hours
Offered in English
Free Cancellation
Mobile Ticket
What's Included
Daikakuji Temple admission fee
English-speaking guide
Heart Sutra copying experience fee
Transportation to and from the meeting point
Meals
Meeting Points
Departure
Please meet in front of the main gate of Daikakuji Temple. Your guide will be waiting holding a yellow sign. Please check the meeting point on the map before the tour starts.
Return
Itinerary
1
Daikaku-ji Temple
Daikakuji Temple is a prestigious temple with deep connections to Japan’s imperial family. It began as a detached palace of Emperor Saga during the Heian period and later became a Buddhist temple. Today, it is known as a temple closely associated with the Heart Sutra, as Emperor Saga is said to have copied the sutra here as a prayer for peace. On this tour, you will explore the temple buildings, learn about its imperial history and Shingon Buddhist traditions, and experience copying the Heart Sutra in a quiet temple setting.
