Tenjuan Temple
Discover Tranquility at Tenjuan Temple
Nanzen-ji Temple: A Zen Oasis in Kyoto
Discover Kyoto's Zen heart at Nanzen-ji Temple: history, gardens, and serene beauty await in this iconic Buddhist sanctuary.
Nanzen-ji, a prominent Zen Buddhist temple in Kyoto, began as Emperor Kameyama's retirement villa in 1291. It features the iconic Sanmon Gate, serene gardens, and a unique aqueduct, offering a blend of historical and spiritual experiences.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Nanzen-ji
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
86 Nanzenji Fukuchicho, Kyoto, Nanzenji Fukuchicho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8435, JP
Monday
8:40 am-5 pm
Tuesday
8:40 am-5 pm
Wednesday
8:40 am-5 pm
Thursday
8:40 am-5 pm
Friday
8:40 am-5 pm
Saturday
8:40 am-5 pm
Sunday
8:40 am-5 pm
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Getting There
Public Transport
From Kyoto Station, take the Tozai Subway Line to Keage Station. The subway ride takes about 17 minutes and costs ¥260. From Keage Station, it's a 5-10 minute walk to Nanzen-ji Temple. Alternatively, take Kyoto City Bus number 5 from Kyoto Station to Nanzenji-Eikando-michi bus stop. The bus ride takes approximately 35 minutes and costs ¥230. From the bus stop, it's a short 5-10 minute walk to the temple.
Taxi
From Kyoto Station, a taxi to Nanzen-ji Temple takes approximately 20 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated fare is between ¥2,100 and ¥2,800. Taxis are readily available at Kyoto Station. Most taxis accept cash, credit cards, and IC cards.
Walking
From Keage Station, exit and follow the signs to Nanzen-ji Temple. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes. From the Nanzenji-Eikando-michi bus stop, walk in the direction of the mountains for about 5-10 minutes to reach the temple entrance.
Local tips
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Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and experience the temple's peaceful atmosphere.
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Wear comfortable shoes, as the temple grounds are extensive and involve a lot of walking.
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Carry cash for admission fees to the Sanmon Gate, Hojo, and sub-temples.
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Check the opening hours, as they vary slightly between summer and winter.
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Explore the sub-temples like Nanzen-in for unique gardens and a quieter experience.
Discover more about Nanzen-ji
Nanzen-ji Temple, officially Zuiryusan Nanzen-ji, holds a significant place in Japanese Zen Buddhism and Kyoto's history. Originally built in 1291 as the retirement villa of Emperor Kameyama, it was later converted into a Zen temple. Over the centuries, Nanzen-ji has been destroyed by fire and rebuilt, with major restoration efforts in the Edo period.
The temple grounds are expansive and include several key structures. The Sanmon Gate, rebuilt in 1628, stands as a symbol of Nanzen-ji and offers panoramic city views. The Hojo, the former head priest's residence, showcases traditional Zen gardens with meticulously arranged rocks and gravel. A brick aqueduct, constructed during the Meiji period to transport water from Lake Biwa, adds a unique element to the temple landscape.
Nanzen-ji is the headquarters of the Nanzen-ji branch of Rinzai Zen and once held the title of "First Temple of the Land". The temple complex includes sub-temples like Nanzen-in, Konchi-in and Tenjuan, each with its own distinct gardens and features. Visitors can explore these sub-temples, participate in tea ceremonies, and immerse themselves in the tranquil atmosphere. The autumn season is particularly stunning, with vibrant foliage enhancing the beauty of the temple grounds.
A brief summary to Nanzen-ji
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