Nanzen-ji Temple: A Zen Oasis in Kyoto
Explore Kyoto's Nanzen-ji Temple: Zen gardens, historic gates, and unique aqueducts await in this serene Buddhist sanctuary.
Nanzen-ji Temple, nestled at the base of Kyoto's Higashiyama mountains, is one of Japan's most significant Zen temples. Originally Emperor Kameyama's retirement villa in the 13th century, it was later converted into a Zen temple and now serves as the head temple of the Nanzen-ji branch of Rinzai Zen Buddhism.
A brief summary to Nanzen-ji Temple
- 86 Nanzenji Fukuchicho, Kyoto, Nanzenji Fukuchicho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8435, JP
- +8175-771-0365
- Visit website
Local tips
- The main temple grounds are free to enter, but there are separate admission fees for the sub-temples and some buildings.
- Visit in the fall to see the vibrant autumn foliage.
- Take time to explore the sub-temples, each offering unique gardens and features.
- Don't miss the aqueduct, a unique blend of historical engineering and temple scenery.
- Climb the Sanmon Gate for panoramic views of Kyoto.
Getting There
-
Public Transport
From Kyoto Station, take the Karasuma Subway Line to Karasuma Oike Station, then transfer to the Tozai Line and get off at Keage Station. From Keage Station, it's about a 5-10 minute walk to Nanzen-ji Temple. The subway fare is approximately ¥260. Alternatively, take Kyoto City Bus number 5 from Kyoto Station to the Nanzenji-Eikando-michi bus stop, which is a 5-10 minute walk from the temple. The bus fare is ¥230.
-
Walking
Nanzen-ji Temple is located near the Philosopher's Path, making it easily accessible by foot from Ginkaku-ji Temple (Silver Pavilion). It's also a short walk from Heian Jingu Shrine and Eikan-do Temple. From Keage Station, exit at Exit 1, walk down the street, go through the tunnel on the right, and follow the street. Before the gate, turn right to reach Nanzen-ji Temple.
-
Taxi
A taxi from Kyoto Station to Nanzen-ji Temple takes approximately 20 minutes, but can take longer during peak season due to traffic. The estimated fare is ¥2600-¥3200. Note that there is no dedicated parking lot at Nanzen-ji Temple. Paid parking lots are available nearby.
Discover more about Nanzen-ji Temple
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Nanzen-ji Temple
0.0 km
Explore the tranquil beauty and rich history of Nanzen-ji Temple, a stunning Buddhist sanctuary nestled in the heart of Kyoto's natural landscape.
Eikan-dō Temple
0.4 km
Experience the serene beauty and rich history of Eikan-dō Temple, a must-visit Buddhist sanctuary in Kyoto, Japan, surrounded by stunning gardens.
Heian Shrine
1.2 km
Experience the tranquil beauty and cultural richness of Heian Shrine in Kyoto, a must-visit Shinto shrine surrounded by stunning gardens.
Heian-jingū Shrine
1.2 km
Discover the beauty and serenity of Heian-jingū Shrine, a stunning Shinto shrine in Kyoto renowned for its breathtaking architecture and tranquil gardens.
Heian Jingu
1.2 km
Step back in time at Heian Jingu Shrine, a vibrant tribute to Kyoto's imperial past and the elegance of the Heian period.
Chion-in Temple
1.3 km
Experience the tranquility of Chion-in Temple, Kyoto's iconic Buddhist sanctuary, where history and spirituality intertwine amidst stunning architecture and serene gardens.
ROHM Theatre Kyoto
1.3 km
Kyoto's premier performing arts venue, blending modern design with a rich history of cultural events and community engagement.
NINJA VR KYOTO
1.5 km
Experience immersive ninja training with cutting-edge VR technology in a traditional Kyoto setting. Fun for all ages!
Maruyama Park
1.5 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Maruyama Park in Kyoto, a serene escape with cherry blossoms, historical shrines, and lush landscapes.
Kōdai-ji Temple
1.7 km
Explore the serene beauty of Kōdai-ji Temple in Kyoto, where history, culture, and nature converge in a tranquil Buddhist retreat.
Yasaka-jinja Shrine
1.7 km
Discover the spiritual heart of Kyoto at Yasaka-jinja Shrine, a historic Shinto shrine steeped in tradition and vibrant festivals.
Yasaka Shrine
1.7 km
Explore the spiritual heart of Kyoto at Yasaka Shrine, a stunning Shinto shrine surrounded by vibrant festivals and serene beauty.
Warai Clock Tower
1.7 km
A Gion district landmark, the Warai Clock Tower adds to the area's historical charm in Kyoto, Japan.
South Tower Gate
1.7 km
Explore the South Tower Gate, a breathtaking Shinto shrine in Kyoto, where spiritual beauty meets rich cultural heritage in serene surroundings.
Yasaka Jinja Nishiromon Gate (Western Tower Gate)
1.8 km
Discover Kyoto's spiritual heart at the iconic Yasaka Jinja Nishiromon Gate, a vibrant gateway to tradition and cultural richness.
Unmissable attractions to see
Nanzenji Hatto (Lecture Hall)
0.1 km
Explore the tranquility of Nanzenji Hatto in Kyoto, a stunning Buddhist temple showcasing exquisite architecture and serene gardens.
Nanzenin
0.1 km
Discover the serene beauty and spiritual heritage of Nanzenin Temple, a historic Buddhist sanctuary nestled in the heart of Kyoto.
Nanzenin Garden
0.2 km
Experience the serene beauty of Nanzenin Garden in Kyoto, where traditional Japanese landscaping meets tranquil natural beauty for a peaceful escape.
Nanzenji Sammon Gate
0.2 km
Discover the serenity of Nanzenji Sammon Gate, a stunning Buddhist temple and historical landmark in Kyoto, Japan, steeped in culture and tranquility.
Tenjuan
0.2 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Tenjuan, a stunning Buddhist temple and garden retreat in the heart of Kyoto, where nature and spirituality converge.
Tenjuan Temple
0.2 km
Experience the serene beauty of Tenjuan Temple in Kyoto, a hidden gem of tranquility and traditional Japanese culture.
Daimon
0.3 km
Explore the serene beauty of Daimon Temple in Kyoto, a hidden gem embracing tranquility and rich Buddhist heritage.
Eikandō Temple
0.4 km
Explore Eikandō Temple, a serene Buddhist sanctuary in Kyoto, renowned for its exquisite gardens and historical significance.
Konchi-in
0.4 km
Experience the tranquility of Konchi-in, a serene Buddhist temple in Kyoto, surrounded by stunning gardens and rich cultural heritage.
Philosopher’s path
0.5 km
Explore the enchanting beauty of Kyoto's Philosopher's Path, a serene hike lined with cherry blossoms and rich cultural heritage.
Keage Incline
0.5 km
Discover the historic Keage Incline in Kyoto, a beautiful site perfect for leisurely walks and stunning seasonal views.
Lake Biwa Canal Museum
0.6 km
Discover the historical significance of Kyoto's canal system at the Lake Biwa Canal Museum, a cultural gem nestled in serene landscapes.
The Lake Biwa Canal Cruise - Keage Boat Dock
0.6 km
Experience the tranquility of Kyoto on the Lake Biwa Canal Cruise, a scenic journey through history and nature's beauty.
Kōun-ji Temple
0.6 km
Explore the serene beauty and rich heritage of Kōun-ji Temple, a hidden gem in Kyoto's Buddhist landscape that captivates every traveler.
Nanzenji Boat Reservoir
0.6 km
Experience the tranquility of Nanzenji Boat Reservoir, a historical landmark in Kyoto surrounded by stunning natural beauty, especially during cherry blossom season.
Essential places to dine
Kakyo
0.9 km
Experience the finest kaiseki cuisine at Kakyo in Kyoto - where tradition meets innovation in every exquisite dish.
Nananoichi
1.0 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine with a touch of Kyoto's finest flavors at Nananoichi.
LURRA°
1.3 km
Experience exquisite fine dining at LURRA° in Kyoto, where local ingredients meet culinary artistry in an elegant setting.
Tan
1.3 km
Discover the exquisite flavors of authentic Kaiseki dining at Tan in Kyoto, where tradition meets seasonal freshness.
Monk
1.3 km
Discover Monk: A top-rated pizza restaurant in Kyoto blending Italian tradition with local flavors for an unforgettable dining experience.
Cenci
1.4 km
Discover Cenci in Kyoto - where exquisite Italian cuisine meets Japanese culinary artistry for an unforgettable dining experience.
Arash's Kitchen
1.6 km
Experience authentic Asian cuisine at Arash's Kitchen in Kyoto—a culinary delight for every traveler seeking unique flavors.
Ajikyu
1.8 km
Discover authentic Japanese dining at Ajikyu in Kyoto—where tradition meets exquisite culinary artistry.
Wagyu Volcano OAGARI
1.8 km
Experience the art of Japanese dining at Wagyu Volcano OAGARI in Kyoto – where exquisite flavors meet culinary tradition.
Teppan Tavern Tenamonya
1.8 km
Experience authentic Japanese flavors at Teppan Tavern Tenamonya in Kyoto's historic Gion district—where teppanyaki meets tradition.
Gion Duck Rice
1.8 km
Discover authentic Japanese cuisine at Gion Duck Rice in Kyoto's historic Gion district - a must-visit for food lovers seeking unique flavors.
Chihana
1.8 km
Experience authentic kaiseki cuisine at Chihana in Kyoto's enchanting Gion district - where tradition meets culinary artistry.
Kōdaiji Jūgyūan
1.9 km
Experience exquisite Japanese fine dining at Kōdaiji Jūgyūan in Kyoto, where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.
Gion Nanba
1.9 km
Discover authentic kaiseki cuisine at Gion Nanba, where tradition meets exquisite flavors in the heart of Kyoto's historic Gion district.
THE SODOH HIGASHIYAMA KYOTO｜Restaurant
1.9 km
Experience exquisite Italian cuisine at The Sodoh Higashiyama Kyoto, where tradition meets modern elegance in every dish.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Kyoto Handicraft Center
1.5 km
Discover the essence of Japanese craftsmanship and cuisine at the Kyoto Handicraft Center, where tradition meets artistry in the heart of Kyoto.
Ki-Yan Stuzio Gion Ishidan-shita Shop
1.8 km
Discover Kyoto's artistic essence at Ki-Yan Stuzio Gion Ishidan-shita Shop, where clothing meets art in a charming boutique experience.
fine antique
1.8 km
Explore Fine Antique in Kyoto's Gion district for a unique glimpse into Japan's cultural heritage through exquisite antiques and collectibles.
Kyo Sakura
1.9 km
Discover Kyo Sakura in Kyoto: A clothing store where tradition meets modern style, offering unique fashion pieces and authentic local craftsmanship.
Ayanokoji Gion
1.9 km
Discover the artistry of Japan at Ayanokoji Gion, a charming souvenir store nestled in Kyoto's historic Gion district, specializing in unique bags and gifts.
Studio Ghibli shop
1.9 km
Explore the enchanting world of Studio Ghibli at this delightful gift shop in Kyoto, filled with unique merchandise and magical memorabilia.
Kurochiku
1.9 km
Discover Kurochiku in Kyoto: A charming souvenir store showcasing authentic Japanese crafts and unique gifts that capture the essence of Japan.
パゴン祇園店 -Pagong (Japanese Design Clothing)
1.9 km
Explore the finest in Japanese women's fashion at Pagong Gion, where tradition meets modern style in the heart of Kyoto.
Hashiya Kaede
2.0 km
Discover the charm of Kyoto at Hashiya Kaede, a unique gift shop specializing in playful and exquisite chopstick designs that celebrate Japanese craftsmanship.
Souvenir Kyoto
2.0 km
Discover unique Japanese souvenirs and cultural treasures at Souvenir Kyoto, where every item tells a story of tradition and craftsmanship.
菊梅 SHOP GION KYOTO
2.1 km
Explore the essence of Kyoto at 菊梅 SHOP GION KYOTO, where traditional crafts meet contemporary design in a charming gift shop.
Maicoto
2.1 km
Explore Maicoto, a charming souvenir and confectionery store in Kyoto offering artisanal treats and unique gifts to savor and share.
HAURA Kyoto japan
2.1 km
Explore the unique artistry of Japan at HAURA Kyoto, a charming general store in the heart of Higashiyama Ward.
Ghibli Studios Shop Kyoto
2.1 km
Explore the enchanting world of Studio Ghibli at the Ghibli Studios Shop Kyoto, a must-visit for fans of animation and art.
Statue kyoto
2.2 km
Discover authentic Japanese souvenirs and local delicacies at Kyoto's charming gift shop, a delightful stop for every traveler.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bingo
1.8 km
Discover Bingo, a cozy bar in Kyoto's Gion district, offering exquisite drinks and a charming ambiance for an unforgettable experience.
Bar鳴子
1.9 km
Discover the exquisite fusion of traditional and modern at Bar鳴子, a must-visit bar in Kyoto's enchanting Gion district.
CRAFT倶楽部京都
1.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at CRAFT倶楽部京都, where innovative cocktails meet traditional Japanese hospitality in the heart of Gion.
feel京good
1.9 km
Experience Kyoto's vibrant nightlife at Feel 京 Good, a chic bar offering a unique ambiance and an extensive selection of local and international drinks.
Lounge & Bar 1867 (ダーワ・悠洛 京都 by バンヤン・グループ)
1.9 km
Unwind in the elegance of Kyoto at Lounge & Bar 1867, where tradition meets modern luxury in a serene atmosphere.
Man in the Moon Gion
1.9 km
Discover the exquisite flavors of Japan at Man in the Moon Gion, a premier grill restaurant in Kyoto's enchanting Gion district.
bar mousse
1.9 km
Experience Kyoto's vibrant nightlife at Bar Mousse, where expertly crafted cocktails meet warm ambiance for an unforgettable evening.
Gion SAMBOA
1.9 km
Discover Gion SAMBOA, a charming bar in Kyoto's historic Gion district, offering local drinks and a unique blend of tradition and modernity.
Talisker
1.9 km
Discover the charm of Talisker in Kyoto's Gion district, where modern cocktails meet traditional Japanese ambiance for an unforgettable evening.
Le Peu
2.0 km
Discover the enchanting atmosphere of Le Peu, a bar in Kyoto that offers a unique blend of traditional charm and modern nightlife.
Pig & Whistle
2.0 km
Discover Pig & Whistle, a charming pub in Kyoto offering a delightful blend of local cuisine, craft beers, and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
The Common One Bar Kyoto
2.0 km
Discover Kyoto's vibrant nightlife at The Common One Bar, where authentic cocktails meet a cozy atmosphere, perfect for every traveler.
Gion Finlandia Bar
2.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Kyoto at Gion Finlandia Bar, where expertly crafted cocktails meet the enchanting atmosphere of Gion.
ROCK BAR CRUNCH
2.1 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Rock Bar Crunch, Kyoto's favorite bar for cocktails and socializing amidst stunning local charm.
UE Rooftop Bar ＆ Food
2.1 km
Experience breathtaking views and exquisite cocktails at UE Rooftop Bar & Food, a luxurious haven in the heart of Kyoto's nightlife.
