The oldest Zen temple in Kyoto, Kennin-ji Temple is an oasis of calm on the edge of Gion with a superb Zen garden.
Kennin-ji Temple
Follow Hanami-koji Lane to its southern end and just before it turns east, you’ll find the entrance to Kennin-ji Temple, which stands in serene contrast to the nightly drama of lust and debauchery in nearby Gion.
Japanese garden of Kennin-ji
In addition to the spacious grounds, which make for pleasant contemplative strolling, there are two highlights here: 1) the pristine white karesansui (dry gravel “Zen” garden), and 2) the two dragons painted on the roof of the adjoining Hodo Hall. Just figuring out how to get from one hall to the other is a kind of genius test and those who successfully navigate the complex gate system must surely be on the road to enlightenment.
English address:
Komatsu-cho, Yamatooji-dori, Shijo sagaru, Higashiyama-ku
Japanese address::
東山区大和大路通四条下る小松町
Opening hours:
10am-5pm, last entry 4:30pm March-October
10am-4:30pm, last entry 4pm November-February
Closed Dec 28-31
Admission:
Adults: 500
High and junior high school students: 300
Non-smoking area: Yes
Nearest Transport:
10min walk from Gion Shijo Station, Keihan line
Nearest Hotels:
See hotels near to Kennin-ji Temple on Agoda.com
Telephone: 561-6363
Website:
Official Website (Japanese)
Where Is This Place Located?
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Near To Here:
Kennin-ji Temple is located in Kyoto’s Southern Higashiyama district. See our complete list of things to do in Southern Higashiyama, including places to eat, nightlife and places to stay.
Kyoto Vacation Checklist
- For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Kyoto guide
- Check Kyoto accommodation availability on Booking.com and Agoda.com - often you can book with no upfront payment and free cancellation
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