[Kyoto] Nanzenji, the most prestigious Zen temple in Kyoto

#AutumnFoliageSeason

Nanzenji Temple, the head temple of the Rinzai sect of Buddhism, located in Kyoto's Higashiyama district.

Founded in the 13th century by Emperor Kameyama and Zen Master Musan Fumon, it is one of Kyoto's most prestigious Zen temples.

A masterpiece of Zen architecture, it is characterized by its majestic and stately architecture, without being flashy.

It boasts numerous nationally designated Important Cultural Properties, including the 22-meter-tall Sanmon Gate and the Chokushimon Gate.

It also boasts the Hojo Garden, a renowned Japanese-style garden designated as a National Treasure.

In autumn, it's a famous spot for viewing autumn leaves, and even a stroll around the temple grounds is free!
Admission fees apply to the Sanmon Gate's upper floors, the Hojo Garden, and Nanzen-in Temple.

The temple grounds also feature the modern brick arched water gate, "Suirokaku," adding to the exotic atmosphere.


📍Location: Nanzen-ji Temple, Fukuchi-cho, Nanzen-ji, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
🕒Visiting Hours: (December-February) 8:40 AM - 4:30 PM, (March-November) 8:40 AM - 5:00 PM
💰Admission to the temple grounds is free; Hojo Garden and Sanmon Gate are ¥600 for adults; Nanzen-in Temple is ¥400 for adults.
🚍Access: Approximately a 10-minute walk from Keage Station on the Tozai Subway Line. Take the city bus No. 5 toward Nanzen-ji Temple, get off at the "Higashitenno-cho" or "Nanzen-ji-Eikando-michi" bus stop, and walk approximately 10 minutes.

#Kyoto #AutumnFoliage #StunningView #Shrines and Temples

Post by タビノモリ | Oct 17, 2025

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