Myoshin-ji Temple

妙心寺

Massive Zen temple complex, head of Myoshin-ji school of Rinzai Zen. 46 sub-temples in sprawling grounds. Famous dragon ceiling painting in Hatto Hall. Taizo-in sub-temple with beautiful garden open to visitors. Less touristy, more authentic Zen atmosphere.

Visit: 1-2 hours (more if exploring sub-temples)

Entrance: Main grounds free, Hatto Hall tour 700 yen, Taizo-in sub-temple 500 yen

Hours: 9:10 AM - 3:40 PM (Hatto tours every 20 min), sub-temples vary

Highlights & Must-See Features

Massive Zen temple complex (46 sub-temples)
Famous Unryu-zu dragon ceiling painting in Hatto
Taizo-in sub-temple with beautiful gardens
Head of Myoshin-ji school Rinzai Zen
Authentic Zen atmosphere
Less touristy than major temples

📍 How to Get There

Nearest Station

Hanazono Station (JR Sagano Line) - 5 minutes walk

Step-by-Step Directions

1 From Kyoto Station: JR Sagano Line to Hanazono (10 min, 200 yen)
2 From Hanazono Station: 5 minute walk north
3 Can combine with Ninna-ji and Ryoan-ji (bus connections)
4 Large complex - allow time to explore

Location & Maps

🗺️ Interactive map - zoom and pan to explore

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors

Latitude: 35.024902

Longitude: 135.71907

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Best Time to Visit

Year-round, less crowded than major temples. Autumn foliage good in sub-temple gardens. Morning for peaceful Zen atmosphere. Hatto tours in Japanese but worth it for dragon painting.