Nanzenji Temple
A prestigious and dignified temple whose spectacular views are also celebrated in Kabuki plays
Founded in 1291 by Emperor Kameyama, this is the head temple of the Nanzenji branch of the Rinzai school of Zen Buddhism. It was designated by Ashikaga Yoshimitsu as being of a higher rank than the Kyoto Five Mountains and the Kamakura Five Mountains. The dry landscape garden designed by Kobori Enshu and the modern arched aqueduct "Suirakaku" are also highlights. In autumn, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the temple grounds, which are ablaze with autumn colors, from the upper floor of the main gate known as "Tenka Ryumon" (Dragon Gate of the World).
What time
Nanzenji Temple
86 Nanzenji Fukuchicho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City
10 minutes walk from Keage subway station
The temple grounds are open to the public (Hojo Garden and Sanmon Gate are open from 8:40 to 17:00 *until 16:30 from December to February *reception closes 20 minutes before closing).
Admission fee: Hojo Garden 600 yen, Sanmon Gate 600 yen
Parking: None
Holidays: December 12th to 28st
Official website: http://www.nanzen.net/