Tenjuan Temple
Discover Tranquility at Tenjuan Temple
Tenjuan Temple: A Serene Sub-Temple of Nanzen-ji
Discover tranquility at Tenjuan Temple in Kyoto, a hidden gem with stunning gardens and serene atmosphere near Nanzen-ji Temple.
Tenjuan Temple, a sub-temple of Nanzen-ji, offers a tranquil escape with its meticulously designed gardens. Founded in 1339 and rebuilt in 1602, it features a dry rock garden and a pond garden, both showcasing the beauty of Japanese landscape design. It's a hidden gem near popular spots like Eikan-do and the Philosopher's Path.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Tenjuan Temple
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Nanzenji Fukuchicho, 86−８, Kyoto, 86 Nanzenji Fukuchicho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8435, JP
Monday
9 am-4:30 pm
Tuesday
9 am-4:30 pm
Wednesday
9 am-4:30 pm
Thursday
9 am-4:30 pm
Friday
9 am-4:30 pm
Saturday
9 am-4:30 pm
Sunday
9 am-4:30 pm
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Getting There
Public Transport
From Kyoto Station, take the Karasuma Line (Green Line) to Karasuma Oike Station, then transfer to the Tozai Line (Red Line) and get off at Keage Station. From Keage Station, it's approximately a 7-10 minute walk to Tenjuan Temple. Alternatively, take bus No. 5 from Kyoto Station's North Exit to the Nanzenji Eikando-michi bus stop, followed by a 9-15 minute walk. Kyoto Municipal Subway fare is about 260 yen from Kyoto Station via Karasuma Oike Station. Kyoto City Bus is 230 yen from Kyoto Station.
Walking
From Nanzen-ji Temple, Tenjuan Temple is a short 2-minute walk away. Exit Nanzen-ji Temple and follow the signs towards Tenjuan Temple. The path is well-marked and easy to navigate. From Eikan-do Zenrin-ji Temple, it is about a 7-minute walk. Follow the main road from Eikan-do towards Nanzen-ji, and you will see signs for Tenjuan Temple.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available from Kyoto Station. The ride to Tenjuan Temple takes approximately 22 minutes. Ask the driver to take you to Nanzen-ji Temple (南禅寺), and then follow the walking directions from there. The estimated taxi fare from Kyoto Station is between 2,500 and 3,000 yen. During peak seasons, traffic may cause delays and increase the fare.
Local tips
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Visit during the autumn foliage season (mid to late November) for the most vibrant colors and evening illuminations.
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Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds, especially during peak seasons.
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Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Nanzen-ji Temple, Eikan-do Zenrin-ji Temple, and the Philosopher's Path.
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Note that the temple may be temporarily closed for certain events.
Discover more about Tenjuan Temple
Tenjuan Temple, nestled in the Sakyo Ward of Kyoto, is a sub-temple of the larger Nanzen-ji Temple complex. Established in 1339 by Kokan Shiren, the 15th abbot of Nanzen-ji, it initially served as a lodging attached to the founder's stupa. The temple was destroyed during the Onin War (1467-1477) but was reconstructed in 1602 with the support of Hosokawa Yuzai.
Tenjuan is renowned for its two distinct gardens: the karesansui (Japanese dry garden) called Enmoku Garden (East Garden) and the Nan Tei (South Garden), a pond garden. The Enmoku Garden, designed by Kobori Enshu, an Edo period garden designer, features rectangular stones, black pine trees, and white gravel. The Nan Tei garden offers a more natural landscape with a pond, waterfalls, stepping stones, koi fish, and maple and pine trees. The temple's main hall, gate, and study hall were rebuilt in the early 17th century.
Tenjuan is particularly beautiful during the autumn when the leaves change color, and the gardens are illuminated at night. The temple also features a Kuri, which served as the living quarters for the priests, and a Daishoin, a large building where monks study.
A brief summary to Tenjuan Temple
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