Ride the Randen Tram to Exquisite and UNESCO Ninna-ji Temple

 

The 100-year old Randen tram is the only tram or street car left in Kyoto. With transfers, the Randen stops near Ninna-ji Temple. Take the 7.2 kilometer/4.5 mile Randen Arashiyama Main Line from Shijo Omiya to Arashiyama in the western part of the city or vice versa. Operated by private Keifuku Electric Railroad, the Randen network once served all of Kyoto. Locals in particular like the scenic routes along both Randen lines.

Daily Deals: Up to 40% Off at Expedia!There is even a footbath at the Arashiyama Randen Station! Buy a token from the station window and soak tootsies. Marine Steve and I passed on this option. Soakers have to take socks and shoes off, soak, dry off – too much of a hassle.

 

 

 

Guide Masa bought Randen tickets from an automatic dispenser and we boarded. Watch the video above to see how easy it is. One transfer and a short walk to fabulous Ninna-ji Temple, founded in 888 by the reigning emperor. As head temple of a Shingon sect of Buddhism, Ninna-ji has also been known as Omuro Imperial Palace. It is one of the few Palaces that visitors are allowed to walk through. Graceful buildings are connected to each other by covered corridors, and feature elegantly painted sliding doors while a beautiful rock and pond garden surrounds it.

 

Due to many wars and fires throughout Kyoto’s history, none of the original buildings survived. The oldest date back to the Edo Period in the early 1600s which includes the main hall and five-story pagoda.

Ninna-ji is another of Kyoto’s great temples listed as a World Heritage Site. This lesser-known Zen Buddhist temple was a palace and has a fantastic garden. Each time I think I’ve seen it all? No. I haven’t. Zen landscape design incorporates simplicity, dignity, tranquility and grace. Ninna-ji is ultimate Zen and tourists walk from building to building.

Don’t miss the Goten, the former head priest residence of the head priest in the southwestern corner of the temple complex. Then sit outside to admire the garden.

 

If you have time, take a short hike on the Hachi-ju Haka-sho (88 Temple Pilgrimage) behind Ninna-ji. Mini-temples mirror the famous 88 Temple Pilgrimage around Shikoku and can be done in less than an hour. Hmm… perhaps we should visit Shikoku next year?

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