Kōun-ji Temple: A Serene Retreat in Kyoto
Discover tranquility and beauty at Kōun-ji Temple, a serene sanctuary in Kyoto surrounded by stunning gardens and rich cultural history.
Nestled in the heart of Kyoto, Kōun-ji Temple offers a tranquil escape into Japan's rich cultural heritage. Known for its stunning gardens and serene atmosphere, this Buddhist temple is a must-visit for tourists seeking a deeper connection to the spiritual essence of the region.
A brief summary to Kōun-ji Temple
- 59 Nanzenji Kitanobocho, Kyoto, Nanzenji Kitanobocho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8446, JP
- +8175-751-7949
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for a quieter experience and to enjoy the gardens in peaceful solitude.
- Don't forget to bring your camera; the seasonal flowers and landscapes provide perfect photo opportunities.
- Take time to sit and reflect in the garden areas, where you can truly immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere.
Getting There
-
Walking
If you are starting from Nara Park, head northeast towards Sanjo Dori Street. Once you reach Sanjo Dori, turn left and walk towards Kintetsu Nara Station. From Kintetsu Nara Station, take the Kintetsu Line to Kyoto Station (approximately 45 minutes). At Kyoto Station, transfer to the Karasuma Subway Line and ride to the Marutamachi Station. Exit the station and head east on Marutamachi Street until you reach the intersection with Higashioji Street. Turn right and continue walking until you reach the entrance of Nanzenji Temple. Kōun-ji Temple is located within the Nanzenji complex.
-
Public Transportation
From Nara Station, board the JR Yamatoji Line train towards Kyoto. After about 45 minutes, disembark at Kyoto Station. From there, take the Karasuma Subway Line to Marutamachi Station. After exiting, walk east on Marutamachi Street until you reach Higashioji Street. At the intersection, turn right and continue until you see the entrance to Nanzenji Temple, where Kōun-ji Temple is located.
-
Bicycle Rental
If you prefer cycling, rent a bicycle in Nara city. From Nara Park, head towards the north exit and follow the designated bike paths through the city. Make your way to the Kintetsu Nara Station area, then follow the signs leading to Kyoto. The ride will take approximately 1.5 hours, depending on your pace. Once you arrive in Kyoto, navigate towards Nanzenji Temple, where Kōun-ji Temple is located.
Discover more about Kōun-ji Temple
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Eikan-dō Temple
0.3 km
Experience the serene beauty and rich history of Eikan-dō Temple, a must-visit Buddhist sanctuary in Kyoto, Japan, surrounded by stunning gardens.
Nanzen-ji Temple
0.6 km
Discover the tranquility of Nanzen-ji Temple, a stunning Buddhist sanctuary in Kyoto, blending rich history with breathtaking nature.
Higashiyama Jisho-ji
1.1 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Higashiyama Jisho-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage Buddhist temple in Kyoto, where history and nature intertwine.
Heian Jingu
1.2 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich history of Heian Jingu, a stunning Shinto shrine and cultural landmark in Kyoto, Japan.
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.
ROHM Theatre Kyoto
1.4 km
Experience the rich cultural offerings of Kyoto at ROHM Theatre, a premier concert hall showcasing world-class performances and artistic events.
Chion-in Temple
1.7 km
Experience the tranquility of Chion-in Temple, Kyoto's iconic Buddhist sanctuary, where history and spirituality intertwine amidst stunning architecture and serene gardens.
NINJA VR KYOTO
1.8 km
Experience the thrill of ninja adventures at NINJA VR KYOTO, where virtual reality meets traditional Japanese culture in an unforgettable indoor playground.
Maruyama Park
2.0 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Maruyama Park in Kyoto, a serene escape with cherry blossoms, historical shrines, and lush landscapes.
Yasaka-jinja Shrine
2.1 km
Discover the spiritual heart of Kyoto at Yasaka-jinja Shrine, a historic Shinto shrine steeped in tradition and vibrant festivals.
Yasaka Shrine
2.1 km
Explore the spiritual heart of Kyoto at Yasaka Shrine, a stunning Shinto shrine surrounded by vibrant festivals and serene beauty.
Warai Clock Tower
2.1 km
Discover the Warai Clock Tower in Kyoto's Gion district, a historical landmark showcasing the city's rich cultural heritage and stunning architectural beauty.
South Tower Gate
2.2 km
Explore the South Tower Gate in Kyoto, a stunning Shinto shrine showcasing traditional architecture and a serene atmosphere for spiritual reflection.
Yasaka Jinja Nishiromon Gate (Western Tower Gate)
2.2 km
Explore the stunning Yasaka Jinja Nishiromon Gate in Kyoto, a beautiful Shinto shrine with rich history and vibrant cultural experiences.
Unmissable attractions to see
Ōtoyo Shrine
0.2 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Ōtoyo Shrine in Kyoto, a unique Shinto shrine adorned with charming animal guardians and rich spiritual heritage.
Philosopher’s path
0.2 km
Explore the enchanting beauty of Kyoto's Philosopher's Path, a serene hike lined with cherry blossoms and rich cultural heritage.
Eikandō Temple
0.3 km
Explore Eikandō Temple, a serene Buddhist sanctuary in Kyoto, renowned for its exquisite gardens and historical significance.
Okazaki Shrine
0.6 km
Experience tranquility and cultural heritage at Okazaki Shrine, a serene Shinto sanctuary in the heart of Kyoto, surrounded by lush gardens and historical significance.
Nanzen-ji
0.6 km
Discover the serene beauty of Nanzen-ji, a historic Buddhist temple in Kyoto, rich in culture and surrounded by tranquil gardens and stunning architecture.
Nanzenji Hatto (Lecture Hall)
0.7 km
Explore the tranquility of Nanzenji Hatto in Kyoto, a stunning Buddhist temple showcasing exquisite architecture and serene gardens.
Nanzenji Sammon Gate
0.7 km
Discover the serenity of Nanzenji Sammon Gate, a stunning Buddhist temple and historical landmark in Kyoto, Japan, steeped in culture and tranquility.
Konkai Kōmyō-ji Temple
0.7 km
Experience the serene beauty and spiritual ambiance of Konkai Kōmyō-ji Temple, a sanctuary of tranquility in historic Kyoto.
Tenjuan
0.8 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
0.8 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Tenjuan Temple in Kyoto, a perfect blend of nature and spirituality in Japan's cultural heart.
Nanzenin
0.8 km
Discover the serene beauty and spiritual heritage of Nanzenin Temple, a historic Buddhist sanctuary nestled in the heart of Kyoto.
Nanzenin Garden
0.8 km
Experience the serene beauty of Nanzenin Garden in Kyoto, where traditional Japanese landscaping meets tranquil natural beauty for a peaceful escape.
Hōnenin
0.8 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Hōnen-in, a hidden Buddhist temple in Kyoto, perfect for reflection and appreciation of nature.
Hōnenin Temple
0.8 km
Experience the serene beauty and spiritual heritage of Hōnen-in Temple, a tranquil Buddhist haven in the heart of Kyoto, Japan.
Daimon
0.8 km
Explore the serene beauty of Daimon Temple in Kyoto, a hidden gem embracing tranquility and rich Buddhist heritage.
Essential places to dine
Monk
0.7 km
Discover Monk: A top-rated pizza restaurant in Kyoto blending Italian tradition with local flavors for an unforgettable dining experience.
Kakyo
1.3 km
Experience the finest kaiseki cuisine at Kakyo in Kyoto - where tradition meets innovation in every exquisite dish.
Cenci
1.4 km
Discover Cenci in Kyoto - where exquisite Italian cuisine meets Japanese culinary artistry for an unforgettable dining experience.
Nananoichi
1.4 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine with a touch of Kyoto's finest flavors at Nananoichi.
Arash's Kitchen
1.5 km
Experience authentic Asian cuisine at Arash's Kitchen in Kyoto—a culinary delight for every traveler seeking unique flavors.
LURRA°
1.5 km
Experience exquisite fine dining at LURRA° in Kyoto, where local ingredients meet culinary artistry in an elegant setting.
Tan
1.6 km
Discover the exquisite flavors of authentic Kaiseki dining at Tan in Kyoto, where tradition meets seasonal freshness.
Ajikyu
2.0 km
Discover authentic Japanese dining at Ajikyu in Kyoto—where tradition meets exquisite culinary artistry.
Gion Duck Rice
2.2 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
2.2 km
Experience authentic kaiseki cuisine at Chihana in Kyoto's enchanting Gion district - where tradition meets culinary artistry.
Gion Nanba
2.2 km
Discover authentic kaiseki cuisine at Gion Nanba, where tradition meets exquisite flavors in the heart of Kyoto's historic Gion district.
Wagyu Volcano OAGARI
2.3 km
Experience the art of Japanese dining at Wagyu Volcano OAGARI in Kyoto – where exquisite flavors meet culinary tradition.
Teppan Tavern Tenamonya
2.3 km
Experience authentic Japanese flavors at Teppan Tavern Tenamonya in Kyoto's historic Gion district—where teppanyaki meets tradition.
Wagyu Ryotei Bungo Gion
2.3 km
Experience Kyoto's finest Wagyu beef at Wagyu Ryotei Bungo Gion - where tradition meets culinary innovation.
Hikiniku to Come (Kyoto)
2.3 km
Discover exquisite Japanese steakhouse dining at Hikiniku to Come in Kyoto - where tradition meets modern flavor.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Kyoto Handicraft Center
1.4 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
2.2 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
2.3 km
Explore Fine Antique in Kyoto's Gion district for a unique glimpse into Japan's cultural heritage through exquisite antiques and collectibles.
Kurochiku
2.3 km
Discover Kurochiku in Kyoto: A charming souvenir store showcasing authentic Japanese crafts and unique gifts that capture the essence of Japan.
Ayanokoji Gion
2.3 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.
パゴン祇園店 -Pagong (Japanese Design Clothing)
2.3 km
Explore the finest in Japanese women's fashion at Pagong Gion, where tradition meets modern style in the heart of Kyoto.
Kyo Sakura
2.3 km
Discover Kyo Sakura in Kyoto: A clothing store where tradition meets modern style, offering unique fashion pieces and authentic local craftsmanship.
Studio Ghibli shop
2.4 km
Explore the enchanting world of Studio Ghibli at this delightful gift shop in Kyoto, filled with unique merchandise and magical memorabilia.
Souvenir Kyoto
2.4 km
Discover unique Japanese souvenirs and cultural treasures at Souvenir Kyoto, where every item tells a story of tradition and craftsmanship.
Maicoto
2.4 km
Explore Maicoto, a charming souvenir and confectionery store in Kyoto offering artisanal treats and unique gifts to savor and share.
菊梅 SHOP GION KYOTO
2.5 km
Explore the essence of Kyoto at 菊梅 SHOP GION KYOTO, where traditional crafts meet contemporary design in a charming gift shop.
Hashiya Kaede
2.5 km
Discover the charm of Kyoto at Hashiya Kaede, a unique gift shop specializing in playful and exquisite chopstick designs that celebrate Japanese craftsmanship.
Media Shop
2.5 km
Explore Kyoto's Media Shop, a unique magazine store and art gallery that combines literature and creativity in a captivating cultural experience.
Sanjo Meiten-gai Shopping Arcade
2.6 km
Discover the heart of Kyoto at Sanjo Meiten-gai Shopping Arcade, where traditional charm meets modern shopping and dining.
Daikichi
2.6 km
Explore the exquisite collection of antiques at Daikichi, where every piece tells a story of Japan's rich cultural heritage in the heart of Kyoto.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
feel京good
2.1 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)
2.1 km
Unwind in the elegance of Kyoto at Lounge & Bar 1867, where tradition meets modern luxury in a serene atmosphere.
Bingo
2.2 km
Discover Bingo, a cozy bar in Kyoto's Gion district, offering exquisite drinks and a charming ambiance for an unforgettable experience.
Pig & Whistle
2.2 km
Discover Pig & Whistle, a charming pub in Kyoto offering a delightful blend of local cuisine, craft beers, and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Bar鳴子
2.2 km
Discover the exquisite fusion of traditional and modern at Bar鳴子, a must-visit bar in Kyoto's enchanting Gion district.
Man in the Moon Gion
2.3 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
2.3 km
Experience Kyoto's vibrant nightlife at Bar Mousse, where expertly crafted cocktails meet warm ambiance for an unforgettable evening.
Bar K6
2.3 km
Discover the perfect blend of modern cocktails and traditional ambiance at Bar K6, a lively bar in the heart of Kyoto's nightlife.
CRAFT倶楽部京都
2.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at CRAFT倶楽部京都, where innovative cocktails meet traditional Japanese hospitality in the heart of Gion.
Le Peu
2.3 km
Discover the enchanting atmosphere of Le Peu, a bar in Kyoto that offers a unique blend of traditional charm and modern nightlife.
The Common One Bar Kyoto
2.3 km
Discover Kyoto's vibrant nightlife at The Common One Bar, where authentic cocktails meet a cozy atmosphere, perfect for every traveler.
Gion SAMBOA
2.3 km
Discover Gion SAMBOA, a charming bar in Kyoto's historic Gion district, offering local drinks and a unique blend of tradition and modernity.
Bar Fishbowl
2.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Kyoto at Bar Fishbowl, where innovative cocktails and stunning city views await you.
Caamm bar
2.4 km
Discover the lively spirit of Kyoto at Caamm Bar, where traditional hospitality meets modern nightlife in a vibrant setting.
Talisker
2.4 km
Discover the charm of Talisker in Kyoto's Gion district, where modern cocktails meet traditional Japanese ambiance for an unforgettable evening.
