One of our all-time favorite temples in Kyoto, Shoren-in is bypassed by almost all tourists and bus groups.
Shoren-In Temple
Formerly a retreat for the abbot of the Tendai School of Buddhish, Shoren-in is an intimate little temple perfectly situated against the green of the Higashiyama Mountains. Because it was originally built as a residence rather than a religious building, the place looks more like a villa than a temple, and that’s a good thing in this case. The superb buildings look over an exquisite garden, which is centered on a tranquil carp pond.
After inspecting the buildings, you can retrieve your shoes and explore the garden on foot (highly recommended). The way is clearly market and will take you by a fine tea house, where well-connected tea masters hold occasional tea ceremonies. You’ll eventually pass by a fine bamboo grove before coming out to a wide, mossy field. Like Kodai-ji Temple and Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Shoren-in occasionally does night light up, which may not be traditional, but they are awesome nonetheless.
Walking Tour: Shoren-in Temple features in our Private Walking Tour of Southern Higashiyama
English address:
69-1 Sanjobo-cho, Awataguchi, Higashiyama-ku
Japanese address::
東山区粟田口三条坊町69-1
Opening hours:
9am-5pm, last entry 4:30pm
Admission:
Adults: \500
High and junior high school students: \400
Elementary school students: \200
Non-smoking area: Yes
Nearest Transport:
3min walk from Jingu-michi Bus Stop, Kyoto City Bus 5, 46, or 100 from Kyoto Station
5min walk from Higashiyama Station, Tozai subway line
Telephone: 561-2345
Website:
Official Website (English)

Where Is This Place Located?
See these places on our Kyoto Google map:- Open the Kyoto map
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Near To Here:
Shoren-in 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 Walking Tour: Classic Southern Higashiyama
Take in some of Kyoto’s most famous sights and some of its secret spots too, all in one four hour private Kyoto walking tour.(Four hours duration. Price: ¥35,000)
More Details About The Tour
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 – usually you can reserve a room with no upfront payment. Pay when you check out. Free cancellations too
- Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Kyoto
- See my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
- Buy a data-only SIM card online for collection when you arrive at Kansai International Airport (for Osaka and Kyoto) or Tokyo's Narita Airport. Or rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
- Compare Japan flight prices and timings to find the best deals
- If you're visiting more than one city, save a ton of money with a Japan Rail Pass – here's my explanation of why it's worth it
- A prepaid Suica card makes travelling around Kyoto easy – here's how
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