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Nanzenji Temple

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Nanzenji Temple is one of the most important Zen temples in Japan. the temple grounds are located at the base of Higashiyama mountains, and includes various subtemples. It is also the head temple within the Rinzai sect of Japanese Zen Buddhism.

It was originally a retirement villa of Emperor Kameyama and converted it into a Zen temple. However, the original buildings were all flattened during the civil wars of the Muromachi Period (1333-1573).

It is now a coveted temple of pilgrims and tourists. Entrance to the central grounds is free, but admission to the temple buildings and subtemples has corresponding separate fees.

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Things to see

Visit the various subtemples and attractions of Nanzenji Temple complex, such as:

Sanmon Gate- the 22-meter gate guards the entrance to the Nanzen-ji Temple.
Hojo- it is the main hall of Naizenji, which is known for its rock garden. Outside the Hojo is a wide aqueduct passing through the temple grounds.
Nanzenin Temple- here, visitors will see the mausoleum of Emperor Kameyama, and a pond garden that is beautiful during fall.
Kochi-in Temple- it is another temple that can be accessed by public. It includes variety of buildings that has fusuma (sliding door), rock gardens, tea house and a small subsidiary of Toshogu Shrine.
Tenjuan Temple- this is a small subtemple dedicated to the Zen master who served Emperor Kameyama in his religious studies.

Travel Notes

The nearest subway station before Nanzenji temple is Keage Station on the Tozai Line. Alternatively, the temple is 5-10 minutes on foot from the nearest bus stop, Nanzenji-Eikando-michi bus stop (35 minutes from Kyoto Station by Kyoto City Bus number 5).

Admission

Admission and access to the subtemples and attractions are the following:
Sanmon Gate: 8:40-17:00/500 Yen/Closed on December 28-31.
Hojo: 8:40-17:00/500 Yen/Closed on December 28-31.
Nanzenin: 8:40-17:00/300 Yen/Closed on December 28-31.
Konchi-in Temple: 8:30-17:00/400 Yen/Open Daily
Tenjuan Temple: 9:00-17:00/400 Yen/Open Daily

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