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.

Visit: 45 minutes to 1 hour

Entrance: 600 yen adults, 300 yen junior high/elementary students

Hours: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM daily (last entry 4:30 PM)

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

Latitude: 35.001129

Longitude: 135.774087

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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.