Kenninji Temple, Kinki Kansai Travel Guide

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Discover Kyoto's oldest Zen temple: serene gardens, stunning art, and a journey into Japanese Zen Buddhism in the heart of Gion.

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Kenninji Temple

Founded in 1202 by Eisai, Kenninji Temple is the oldest Zen temple in Kyoto, located just south of the Gion district. It's a serene escape offering a glimpse into Zen Buddhism and Japanese art, featuring gardens, painted dragons, and the iconic Wind and Thunder Gods screen.

A brief summary to Kenninji Temple

大和大路通四条下るKomatsucho, ５８４番地, Kyoto, Komatsucho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0811, JP
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Monday 10 am-4:30 pm
Tuesday 10 am-4:30 pm
Wednesday 10 am-4:30 pm
Thursday 10 am-4:30 pm
Friday 10 am-4:30 pm
Saturday 10 am-4:30 pm
Sunday 10 am-4:30 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Kenninji Temple.

Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
Take your time to explore the gardens and appreciate the details of the Zen landscape.
Look for the twin dragons painted on the ceiling of the Dharma Hall, commissioned in 2002 to commemorate the temple's 800th anniversary.
Consider visiting nearby temples like Kodaiji Temple and Yasaka Shrine to make the most of your time in the Higashiyama district.

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Explore Kenninji Temple on the Map

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Getting There

Walking

From Gion-Shijo Station (Keihan Line) or Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station (Hankyu Line), walk south on Hanamikoji Street for about 10 minutes. Kenninji Temple will be located at the end of Hanamikoji Street. No costs are associated with this final approach.
Public Transport

From Kyoto Station, take Kyoto City Bus routes 100, 12, 46, 202, 206, or 207 to Gion. Get off at the Higashiyama Yasui bus stop and walk for about 5 minutes. The fare for a single bus ride within the flat fare zone is ¥230 for adults and ¥120 for children. Consider purchasing a Kyoto Subway and Bus One-Day Pass for ¥1100 if you plan to visit multiple attractions.
Taxi

From Kyoto Station, a taxi to Kenninji Temple will take approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. The taxi fare will likely be between ¥2,090 and ¥2,688, considering the distance and starting fare. Note that the starting fare for a taxi in Kyoto is ¥490-¥620 for the first 1.5km.

Discover more about Kenninji Temple

Kenninji Temple, nestled in Kyoto's historic Gion district, stands as the city's oldest Zen temple, established in 1202 by the monk Eisai, who introduced Zen Buddhism and tea to Japan. As one of the Kyoto Gozan (Five Great Zen Temples), Kenninji has played a vital role in the development of Zen culture in Japan.The temple grounds offer a tranquil atmosphere with various halls, gates, and gardens. Visitors can explore the main buildings (for an admission fee) to discover stunning artwork, including the celebrated Wind and Thunder Gods screen and twin dragons painted on the Dharma Hall ceiling. The dry landscape gardens, such as the Daio-en, provide a space for contemplation and appreciation of Zen aesthetics.Kenninji's history is marked by periods of growth and restoration. Although initially incorporating Tendai and Shingon Buddhist practices, it later became a dedicated Zen training center. Fires and wars caused damage over the centuries, but dedicated efforts ensured the preservation of this important cultural site. Today, Kenninji Temple welcomes visitors to experience the beauty and serenity of Zen Buddhism in the heart of Kyoto.