Kenninji Ryosokuin, Settsu Travel Guide

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Discover tranquility at Ryosokuin, a sub-temple of Kenninji, with serene gardens and Zen meditation in Kyoto's historic Gion district.

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Kenninji Ryosokuin

Ryosokuin, a sub-temple of Kyoto's oldest Zen temple, Kenninji, offers a tranquil escape with its beautiful gardens and opportunities for Zen meditation. Founded in the 14th century, it provides a glimpse into traditional Zen practices and aesthetics.

A brief summary to Kenninji Ryosokuin

591 Komatsucho, Kyoto, Komatsucho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0811, JP
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From Eve

Know before you go

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

Check the temple's website for seasonal openings and special events, as Ryosokuin is not always open to the public.
Consider participating in a Zazen meditation session for a deeper understanding of Zen Buddhism (reservations may be required).
Visit during the rainy season (June-July) to see the hangesho flowers in bloom.

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Getting There

Walking

From Kenninji Temple's main entrance, Ryosokuin is a short walk. Exit Kenninji and walk east along the main street. Turn right at the first major intersection. Ryosokuin will be on your right-hand side, a short distance down the street. There is no cost associated with this approach.
Public Transport

From Kyoto Station, take Kyoto City Bus number 206 to the 'Higashiyama Yasui' bus stop. From the bus stop, walk approximately 2 minutes. Head north-west. Ryosokuin will be on your left. The bus fare is ¥230 for adults and ¥120 for children. Alternatively, a one-day bus pass costs ¥1,500 for adults and ¥700 for children, offering unlimited rides on Kyoto city buses.
Taxi

From Kyoto Station, a taxi to Ryosokuin will take approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated fare is ¥2,090. Taxis are readily available at Kyoto Station. Be sure to provide the driver with the full address: 591 Komatsucho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0811.

Discover more about Kenninji Ryosokuin

Ryosokuin, nestled within the grounds of Kenninji Temple in Kyoto's historic Gion district, provides a serene retreat for those seeking tranquility and a deeper understanding of Zen Buddhism. Founded in the 14th century, this sub-temple, originally named Chisokuin, has a rich history and connection to Kenninji, the oldest Zen temple in Kyoto.Ryosokuin is known for its exquisite gardens, which are open to the public on a seasonal basis. The gardens feature a harmonious blend of elements, including a karesansui-style (dry landscape) garden and a pond garden. During the rainy season, the garden is adorned with Saururus chinensis flowers, also known as hangesho, leading locals to call Ryosokuin the "temple of hangesho". The Suigetsu-tei, a tea house in the garden, is a replica of one favored by Oda Urakusai.For those seeking a more immersive experience, Ryosokuin offers the opportunity to participate in Zazen, Zen meditation. These sessions provide an introduction to Zen philosophy and practice, allowing visitors to experience the stillness and clarity of mind that Zen seeks to cultivate.Historically, Ryosokuin played an educational role within Kenninji, hosting Korean delegations during the Edo period. A priest at the temple is credited with interpreting Chinese dim sum into vegetarian manju, a popular Japanese confection. Today, Ryosoku-in aims to build the perfect place to meditate and to foster healthy minds focused on creating a better society.