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This temple was built as a memorial temple for those who died while working on dams and other projects under Suminokura Ryōi. There are a variety of monuments and statues on the temple grounds, and a haiku from the famous poet Matsuo Bashō was written about the cherry blossoms on the temple grounds. The walk along the Hozu River leading to the temple is arguably more enjoyable than the temple itself, as the water often displays quite vivid blues and greens.
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大河内山荘
A splendid mountain retreat, previously occupied by Japanese silent screen legend Ōkōchi Denjirō. The grounds have something beautiful to offer each season but are probably at their best during autumn, when the trees explode into fiery shades of red and gold. Take a long, leisurely walk through the villa's beautiful gardens and savour the fine views of the city below. There is a small museum on the grounds dedicated to the former owner's life and work.
常寂光寺
This temple is quite beautiful in the autumn when the leaves are changing, and the view of the city from just above the pagoda is a truly spectacular.
This is the reason why most people head into this area, all taking the same looking pictures. You should visit when the sun is at its highest point, because the forest is quite dark and will only let in a few sun rays — don't wait until the afternoon. Note, the bamboo forest is free, but you might get the impression that you have to cross through the Tenryū-ji temple and gardens to reach it, don't or it will cost you ¥500. Just take the walkway route just south of the railway tracks, which begins at the upper end of the main road leading north from the Randen tram terminal.
二尊院
A large temple complex that houses two ancient sculptures of Buddha; one of Shakamuni Buddha and the other of Amida Buddha. It also houses the graves of some famous Japanese people. Unless you have interest in visiting one of the graves, the complex seems expensive compared to other temples of the same price with much more interesting sites and history.
天龍寺
One of the city's UNESCO World Heritage Sites and the main temple of the Rinzai sect of Buddhism in Kyoto; it's also considered one of Kyoto's Five Great Zen Temples. Tenryu-ji was founded in 1334, but the current buildings all date from the last century: pleasant, but unremarkable. However, there is a lovely garden and pond, designed by the Zen master Musō Soseki, that is worth a look - and well worth taking a leisurely stroll around. After your walk, head out the back way and through the splendid bamboo forest to reach the Ōkōchi Sansō villa (see below).
滝口寺
A quiet, peaceful temple of less interest than nearby Gioji Temple.