Kennin-ji Temple
建仁寺
Kyoto's oldest Zen temple founded 1202 by monk Eisai who introduced both Zen Buddhism and tea cultivation from China to Japan. Features magnificent fusuma paintings including iconic Twin Dragons ceiling and Wind/Thunder Gods. Peaceful oasis in bustling Gion.
Highlights & Must-See Features
- Twin Dragons ceiling painting (dramatic Tawaraya Sotatsu replica)
- Wind God and Thunder God fusuma sliding door paintings
- Three distinct Zen rock gardens (Daisho-in, Choonkaku, courtyard)
- Oldest Zen temple in Kyoto (1202 founding)
- Tea ceremony culture history (Eisai introduced tea from China)
- Peaceful atmosphere despite Gion location
📍 How to Get There
Nearest Station
Gion-Shijo Station (Keihan Line) - 7 minutes walk
Step-by-Step Directions
- 1 From Kyoto Station: Bus 206 to Higashiyama Yasui (15 min), walk 5 min south
- 2 From Gion-Shijo Station: Walk 7 minutes south through Gion
- 3 In heart of Gion district - combine with Gion exploration
- 4 Near Yasaka Pagoda and Hanamikoji geisha street
Location & Maps
🗺️ Interactive map - zoom and pan to explore
Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors
35.001129 135.774087 💡 Tip: "View Location" shows the temple on the map. "Get Directions" navigates from your current position.
Best Time to Visit
Any season - less crowded than major temples. Beautiful in spring green (May) and autumn colors (November). Peaceful atmosphere for Zen contemplation.
Contact & Info
584 Komatsucho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0811
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Nearby Temples & Shrines
These sacred sites are closest to Kennin-ji Temple and easy to combine in a single visit.
Yasaka Shrine
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Free admission · 30-45 minutes (add time for Maruyama Park or Gion exploration)
Entoku-in Temple
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500 yen (combo with Kodai-ji: 900 yen) · 30 minutes (longer during illuminations)
Kodai-ji Temple
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600 yen adults, 250 yen children (illuminations may require separate ticket) · 1 hour daytime visit, 1.5 hours during illuminations (take time to enjoy)
Maruyama Park & Yasaka Shrine
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Free · 30-45 minutes (longer during hanami parties)
Ryozen Kannon Temple
霊山観音
300 yen · 20-30 minutes
Chion-in Temple
知恩院
Temple grounds free, Hojo gardens 400 yen (seasonal), Sanmon gate climb 800 yen (when open) · 1 hour (add 30 minutes for gardens, 30 minutes for Sanmon gate climb)