TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Kenninji Temple is the head temple of the Kenninji branch of the Rinzai sect of Buddhism in Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City, and is one of Kyoto's oldest Zen temples, founded by Eisai in 1202. The temple has been transmitting the teachings and culture of Zen since the Kamakura period, and boasts a main hall, a lecture hall, gardens with dry landscape gardens and pond-centered strolling gardens, as well as temple treasures such as paintings on sliding doors and ink paintings. In recent years, the temple has become known for the masterpiece "Two Dragons" painted on the ceiling of the lecture hall, and is popular with worshippers from Japan and abroad as a place where they can experience the spirit of Zen.
Highlights
- Hatto and the Double DragonsThe huge "Two Dragons" painting on the ceiling of the lecture hall is an impressive sight that overwhelms the viewer and is a famous photo spot (exhibition conditions may change).
- Hojo and sliding door paintingsThe Hojo is home to sliding door paintings and calligraphy by masters from the Edo to modern eras, and the tranquil interior and the borrowed garden scenery are magnificent.
- garden: There are gardens scattered around the temple that follow Zen aesthetics, such as the garden in front of the Hojo and the garden near the Karamon Gate, and you can enjoy the different expressions of the seasons.
- Tea room and Zen experience: The temple sometimes hosts experience programs such as Zen meditation sessions, sutra copying, and tea ceremonies. Please check the official website for advance reservations and on-the-day participation.
- Important Cultural Properties and Temple TreasuresThe temple houses cultural assets of great historical value, such as ancient documents, Buddhist statues, and paintings (permanent and special exhibitions vary depending on the season).
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: Within walking distance (approximately 8-15 minutes' walk) from both Keihan Railway's Gion-Shijo Station and Hankyu Railway's Kawaramachi Station.
- Bus/Car: Accessible from JR Kyoto Station by city bus or taxi (travel time may vary depending on traffic conditions). As the surrounding area is a tourist destination, traffic jams and crowded parking lots are likely to occur.
- Walking route: It is conveniently located for a stroll from Gion, Yasaka Shrine, and Hanamikoji, making it easy to combine with other walks around the surrounding area.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Main tour: 30-60 minutes (to take a quick look at the lecture hall, abbot's chamber, and garden)
- Relaxed viewing and photography: 60-90 minutes
- Participating in experience programs such as zazen and sutra copying: from 90 minutes (varies depending on the program)
Nearby spots
- Yasaka Shrine (approximately 5-10 minutes walk)
- Gion (Hanamikoji) and Shirakawa River Walking Area
- Kiyomizu-dera Temple (accessible on foot or by bus, easy to incorporate into sightseeing routes)
- Easy access from Kenninji Temple to the Shijo Kawaramachi area (shopping and dining)
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- congestion: The Gion area can get very crowded during the cherry blossom season in spring, the autumn leaves in fall, and on long weekends and in the evenings. If you want to visit in peace and quiet, we recommend visiting on a weekday morning.
- Photography etiquette: Photography is generally permitted throughout the temple grounds, but there are some temples and exhibits where photography and flash photography are prohibited. Please follow the posted notices and instructions of the staff.
- Dress and Behavior: Temples are religious facilities. Please observe basic etiquette, such as removing your hat, keeping quiet, and refraining from eating, drinking, or talking loudly. You may be required to remove your shoes in certain buildings.
- Participate in the experience: Experiences such as zazen and sutra copying may require reservations or may have limited hours. If you wish to participate, please check the official website or inquire in advance.
- Feet and steps: The old buildings and gardens have steps, cobblestones, and muddy areas. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes.
