Kennin-ji, located in Kyoto’s Higashiyama Ward, is the city’s oldest Zen temple, dedicated to spreading the teachings of Zen Buddhism.
Founded over 800 years ago by the monk Eisai, who studied extensively in China, Kennin-ji continues to attract visitors with its rich history and serene atmosphere. Walking through the simple and elegant grounds, you’ll feel a sense of calm and purification.
The temple is home to many highlights, including the famous Fujin Raijin-zu (Wind and Thunder Gods Screen) and the striking Twin Dragons painting on the ceiling of its main hall. Visitors will also enjoy exploring the beautiful gardens, such as the Daiou-en and Choon-tei, where you can experience the natural beauty of the seasons.
This article will introduce the must-see spots at Kennin-ji, along with nearby sightseeing and dining recommendations.
The History of Kennin-ji
Kennin-ji is a Zen temple founded by the monk Eisai, who introduced the Rinzai school of Zen Buddhism to Japan.
In 1202 (during the Kennin era), the temple was established in Kyoto with the support of Minamoto no Yoriie, the second shogun of the Kamakura Shogunate. At the time, it served as the base for the Rinzai school in Kyoto.
During its early years, Tendai Buddhism and Shingon Buddhism were dominant in Japan, so Kennin-ji initially embraced all three traditions—Tendai, Shingon, and Zen.
In 1259, the Chinese monk Lanxi Daolong became the temple’s 11th head priest and transformed Kennin-ji into a purely Zen temple.
The original buildings were lost to the flames of the Ōnin War and repeated fires.
Although Kennin-ji fell into disrepair for a time, it was later restored by Ankokuji Ekei. Under the protection of the Tokugawa Shogunate, the temple’s practices and academic systems flourished.
In the Meiji era, due to government policies on religion, Kennin-ji became the head temple of the Kennin-ji branch of the Rinzai school of Zen Buddhism.
How to Access Kennin-ji
Kennin-ji is located in Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, and can be reached by train, bus, or taxi. If you plan to visit other spots in Kyoto, using a bus or subway with a day pass is a convenient option.
By Bus
From JR Kyoto Station, take Kyoto City Bus Route 206 or 100.
- 5-minute walk from Higashiyama Yasui bus stop
- 7-minute walk from Minamiza-mae bus stop
- 10-minute walk from Kiyomizu-michi bus stop
- 10-minute walk from Gion bus stop
By Train
- 7-minute walk from Gion-Shijo Station on the Keihan Main Line
- 10-minute walk from Kawaramachi Station on the Hankyu Line
Access to Kyoto Station
- From JR Tokyo Station: 2 hours 30 minutes by Tokaido Shinkansen
- From Itami Airport: 45 minutes by limousine bus
- From Kansai International Airport: About 75 minutes by JR Airport Express “Haruka”
- From Kintetsu Nara Station: 45 minutes by Kintetsu Nara Line Express to Kyoto
- From JR Osaka Station: 30 minutes by JR Kyoto Line Special Rapid Service (bound for Maibara)
Visitor Information for Kennin-ji
Kennin-ji has both free and paid areas.
Most of the temple grounds can be explored for free during opening hours, except for two main facilities: the Hatto (Dharma Hall) and the Honbo (Main Hall), which require an admission fee.
The Hatto features the famous Twin Dragons painting on its ceiling, while the Honbo displays important cultural treasures, including the Wind and Thunder Gods folding screen.
Since you need to take off your shoes when entering the Hatto and Honbo, wearing shoes that are easy to slip on and off is recommended.
The Wind and Thunder Gods artwork is a replica, so photography is allowed.
Kennin-ji Temple
- Address: Komatsu-cho, Yamato-Oji-dori Shijo-sagaru, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto
- Map: Google Maps
- Phone Number: 075-561-6363
- Closed: Open year-round
- Hours:
- March 1 – October 31: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM (gates close at 5:00 PM)
- November 1 – February 28: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (gates close at 4:30 PM)
- Admission Fee for Hatto & Honbo:
- Adults: 500 yen
- Junior and Senior High School Students: 300 yen
- Elementary School Students: 200 yen (Free for children under elementary school age)
- Official Website: Kennin-ji Temple
Highlights of Kennin-ji: From Twin Dragons to the Wind and Thunder Gods
Kennin-ji is home to many cultural treasures, including the famous Wind and Thunder Gods Folding Screen, a designated National Treasure.
In addition to these historical artifacts, newer attractions like the Twin Dragons painting in the Hatto (Dharma Hall), created in 2002, have made Kennin-ji a must-visit spot for tourists.
Here, we’ll guide you through both the free and paid areas to help you enjoy Kennin-ji to the fullest.
1. Exploring the Free Temple Grounds
Your visit to Kennin-ji begins with the impressive Sanmon (main gate), which was relocated in 1923 from Anneiji Temple in Hamana, Shizuoka Prefecture.
This gate represents the Three Gates of Liberation: Kūmon (Gate of Emptiness), Musōmon (Gate of Signlessness), and Musakumon (Gate of Wishlessness). It is also called Bōketsurō, meaning “Pavilion for Viewing the Imperial Palace.”
The upper part of the gate houses statues of Shakyamuni Buddha, the disciples Kāśyapa and Ānanda, and the Sixteen Arhats (enlightened followers).
Walking past the gate, you’ll find a serene sandō (pathway) lined with trees, which offer beautiful seasonal scenery.
When I visited, the vibrant summer greenery was particularly energizing. In winter, the sight of snow covering the Sanmon and surrounding trees adds a peaceful, picturesque charm.
Kennin-ji’s grounds also feature two ponds: Hōjō-ike and Senbatsu-ike.
Senbatsu-ike is a rectangular pond surrounded by historic stone walls and trees, evoking a sense of timeless beauty.
Nearby, you’ll find notable spots like the Tea Monument honoring Eisai, the temple’s founder, who is credited with bringing tea culture to Japan, and the Heisei Tea Garden, a modern addition to celebrate this heritage.
A hidden gem within the temple grounds is Myōjō-den, located through a small torii gate near Senbatsu-ike.
This hall enshrines Gaku Daimeijin, a deity believed to improve memory. The nearby ema (wooden plaques) display heartfelt wishes, many from students preparing for exams.
If you were born in the Year of the Ox or the Year of the Tiger, this is your goshinbutsu (guardian deity), making it a particularly meaningful place to visit.
Be sure to stop by and make an offering!
2. The Main Highlights of Kennin-ji: Hondo and Hojo
The Hojo (Abbot’s Hall) and Hondo (Main Hall) are the key areas of Kennin-ji, requiring an admission fee to explore. Along with the Hatto (Dharma Hall), these are must-visit spots that feature stunning cultural treasures.
The most famous attraction here is the “Wind and Thunder Gods Folding Screen” (Fūjin Raijin-zu), a designated National Treasure. Visitors can also admire the serene beauty of the Chōontei Garden, viewed from various angles.
The Hojo, located next to the Hondo, is an important cultural property. Originally built in 1599 and relocated from Ankokujī Temple in Hiroshima, this structure is a fine example of Zen-style architecture, featuring a striking copper-tiled roof.
When you first enter the Hondo, you’ll see the famous “Wind and Thunder Gods Folding Screen”. While the original masterpiece is housed at the Kyoto National Museum, a detailed and faithful digital replica is displayed here. The screen’s lifelike texture and shine recreate the dynamic movement of the two gods, making it an impressive sight.
Photography of the replica is permitted, allowing visitors to capture this masterpiece up close.
The Hojo is home to stunning works by Kaihō Yūshō, a renowned painter active during the Azuchi-Momoyama to early Edo period.
One standout piece is the “Unryū-zu” (Cloud and Dragon), painted on sliding doors using bold ink brush strokes. The image of a powerful dragon emerging from flowing clouds creates a mesmerizing and dynamic effect.
Other notable works on display include the “Sansui-zu” (Landscape Scenes) and “Chikurin Shichiken-zu” (Seven Sages in a Bamboo Grove). Unlike museum exhibits behind glass, these artworks can be admired with the naked eye, making the experience truly special.
Directly in front of the Hojo is the Daiō-en Garden, a large Karesansui (dry landscape) garden. Designed by Ogawa Jihei VII, a famed landscape architect, this minimalistic garden features rocks, sand, and water elements to represent a sophisticated sense of Zen beauty.
Sitting on the veranda of the Hojo while admiring the garden’s tranquil scenery is an unforgettable experience. Compared to other Rinzai Zen temple gardens, the Daiō-en feels grand and majestic, living up to its name, which means “Great Hero Garden.”
Another highlight of Kennin-ji is the Chōontei Garden, located within the Hojo. Surrounded by corridors on all sides, this square garden offers different perspectives from each angle.
The garden’s design is influenced by the “〇△ロ” (Circle, Triangle, Square) painting by Edo-period Zen monk Sengai Gibon. The shapes in the garden—circle, triangle, and square—are said to represent the Zen elements of earth, fire, and water. This artistic and modern-looking garden adds a unique touch to the temple grounds.
From the back, you can observe the square and circle shapes, while the raised sand in the front forms a perfectly symmetrical triangle.
Kennin-ji remains an active Zen temple, where visitors can immerse themselves in traditional Zen practices.
- Zazen Meditation: You can participate in zazen (sitting meditation) or listen to a Zen lecture by reserving in advance.
- Sutra Copying (Shakyō): Without prior reservations, you can try sutra copying inside the Hondo. Simply register at the shop located in the temple. The experience costs 1,000 yen per person and takes about one hour.
The Hatto (Dharma Hall) at Kennin-ji serves as both a sacred space for the main Buddha and a lecture hall for monks. Inside, the principal image of the temple, the Shaka Nyorai (Buddha Shakyamuni), is enshrined.
The Hatto is one of Kennin-ji’s largest buildings and a must-visit spot, attracting many visitors who come to see the breathtaking ceiling painting of two dragons.
The Hatto is part of the paid admission area, so it’s best to visit after exploring the Hojo (Abbot’s Hall) and Honbo areas. Built in 1765, the Hatto is also known by its alternate name, Nenge-do.
The Twin Dragons artwork on the ceiling of the Hatto is one of the highlights of Kennin-ji. Painted by artist Junsaku Koizumi, who also created the famous Cloud Dragon at Kencho-ji Temple in Kamakura, this stunning piece of art features two massive dragons soaring through the sky.
In Buddhist tradition, dragons are known as “Ryujin” (Dragon Gods), protectors of the faith who are believed to bring blessings and safeguard temples from disasters. They are also associated with water, symbolizing protection against fire.
The Twin Dragons were painted in 2002 to commemorate the 800th anniversary of Kennin-ji’s founding. It took the artist two years to complete this masterpiece, which spans the equivalent of 108 tatami mats in size. The ink-painting dragons dominate the ceiling, their dynamic presence creating a powerful and unforgettable sight.
Don’t miss this awe-inspiring artwork—it’s one of the most iconic features of Kennin-ji. When you look up at the vast ceiling, you’ll feel the dragons’ energy and artistry drawing you in.
Recommended Tourist Spots Around Kennin-ji
The area around Kennin-ji is full of historical attractions, including beautiful temples and shrines. Notable spots include Kodaiji Temple, associated with Toyotomi Hideyoshi and his wife Nene, and Yasui Konpiragu Shrine, famously known as the “Break-Up Shrine.” Many of these locations are within walking distance and perfect for a leisurely visit.
1. Kodaiji Temple: Scenic Beauty and History
Located a 10-minute walk from Keihan Gion-Shijo Station, Kodaiji is a temple belonging to the Kennin-ji school of the Rinzai sect of Zen Buddhism. It was established by Nene, the wife of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, to honor his memory.
Surrounded by the natural beauty of Higashiyama, Kodaiji is a stunning place to visit year-round. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom gracefully, while autumn transforms the temple grounds into a vibrant sea of red maple leaves.
The temple is home to remarkable cultural and historical features, including:
- The Otamaya (Mausoleum), decorated with intricate Kodaiji Makie lacquerwork, a hallmark of the Momoyama culture.
- The Kaizando Hall, a designated Important Cultural Property, surrounded by two serene ponds and a beautiful garden.
During autumn foliage season, Kodaiji becomes a major attraction, drawing crowds who come to see its stunning crimson scenery.
For those seeking a quieter experience, June offers a hidden gem: the vibrant green maple leaves (Aomomiji). The pathway lined with fresh greenery is a mystical sight unique to this season, providing a peaceful atmosphere away from the usual crowds.
Kodaiji Temple Information
- Address: 526 Shimogawara-cho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto
- Map: Google Maps
- Access:
- 10-minute walk from Keihan Gion-Shijo Station
- 7-minute walk from “Higashiyama Yasui” bus stop (take City Bus 206 from JR Kyoto Station)
- Phone Number: 075-561-9966
- Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM (last admission at 5:00 PM; open until 10:00 PM during special light-up periods)
- Admission Fee: Adults ¥600 / Middle & High School Students ¥250 (Kodaiji & Entoku-in combined ticket: ¥900)
- Official Website: Kodaiji Temple
2. Yasui Konpiragu: A Power Spot for Cutting Bad Ties and Forming Good Ones
Located a 7-minute walk from the Higashiyama Yasui bus stop (City Bus 206), Yasui Konpiragu Shrine is famous for helping people cut bad ties and form good ones. Whether it’s relationships, bad habits like drinking, smoking, or gambling, this shrine is believed to help remove all negative connections while strengthening positive bonds.
The highlight of the shrine is a large stone called the “Enkiri-Enmusubi Ishi” (the Stone for Cutting Bad Ties and Forming Good Ones). Standing 1.5 meters tall and 3 meters wide, this sacred stone is shaped like an ema (a votive plaque) and has a circular hole in its center, believed to be filled with the power of the shrine’s deity.
Here’s how to properly make your wish:
- Purchase a “Katashiro” (a substitute paper talisman) and write your wishes on it.
- To cut bad ties, crawl through the stone’s hole from front to back.
- To form good ties, crawl through the hole from back to front.
- Finally, attach your Katashiro to the stone, sealing your prayer.
Despite its compact size, Yasui Konpiragu is a popular power spot in Kyoto, attracting visitors every day who seek to change their fate for the better.
Yasui Konpiragu Shrine Information
- Address: 70 Shimobenten-cho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto
- Map: Google Maps
- Access:
- 10-minute walk from Keihan Gion-Shijo Station
- 1-minute walk from Higashiyama Yasui bus stop (City Bus 206)
- Phone Number: 075-561-5127
- Hours: Open 24 hours (Katashiro paper talismans are available at all times)
- Admission Fee: Free
- Official Website: Yasui Konpiragu Shrine
3. Rokuharamitsu-ji: A Historic Shingon Sect Temple Founded in 951
Rokuharamitsu-ji Temple is located just a 7-minute walk from Keihan’s Kiyomizu-Gojo Station or from the Kiyomizu-michi bus stop (City Bus 206).
Rokuharamitsu-ji was founded in 951 by Kūya Shōnin, a prominent Buddhist monk. The temple’s name comes from “Paramita,” which refers to the six practices that guide one toward enlightenment and the Buddha’s realm.
Charming Details:
Around the temple, you’ll discover small highlights, including a frog statue symbolizing prayers for visitors’ safety.
Main Hall (Hondō):
At the center of the temple grounds, you’ll find the vibrant Main Hall, designated as an Important Cultural Property.
Treasury Museum (Hōmotsukan):
Adjacent to the Main Hall, the museum houses valuable artifacts that have survived through centuries of war. The most famous piece is the statue of Kūya Shōnin, a masterpiece that has retained its form since its creation.
Rokuharamitsu-ji Temple Information
- Address: Gojo-dori, Yamatooji Agaru Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto
- Map: Google Maps
- Access:
- 7-minute walk from Keihan Kiyomizu-Gojo Station
- 7-minute walk from Kiyomizu-michi bus stop (City Bus 206)
- Phone Number: 075-561-6980
- Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Last entry to the Treasury Museum at 4:30 PM)
- Admission Fee (Treasury Museum):
- Adults: 600 yen
- Middle, High School, and University Students: 500 yen
- Elementary School Students: 400 yen
- Official Website: Rokuharamitsu-ji Temple
Recommended Gourmet Spots Near Kennin-ji Temple
Here are some great dining options to visit while exploring Kennin-ji Temple.
1. Ikariya Shokudo: French Cuisine in a 100-Year-Old Kyoto Townhouse
Just a 5-minute walk from Keihan Gion-Shijo Station, this charming bistro is located along the Kamo River in a beautifully renovated Kyoto townhouse (Kyo-machiya).
At Ikariya Shokudo, you can enjoy a fusion of French and Italian cuisine paired with wines carefully selected by a sommelier.
In summer, experience a Kawadoko, Kyoto’s seasonal dining tradition, where you can enjoy your meal on a riverside terrace overlooking the Kamo River. The 28-seat terrace, known as “Noryo-yuka Bistro,” offers a relaxed, open-air atmosphere perfect for savoring fine French cuisine with a glass of wine.
One of the must-try dishes is their signature “Whole Chicken Confit” (Half: 1,280 yen, tax included).
This specialty features a whole chicken slowly cooked at a low temperature in oil, resulting in incredibly tender and juicy meat that bursts with flavor. It’s a delightful example of classic French culinary techniques.
Ikariya Shokudo Information
- Address: 138-2 Saito-cho, Kiyamachi-dori, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto
- Map: Google Maps
- Access: 5-minute walk from Keihan Gion-Shijo Station
- Phone Number: 075-276-2067
- Closed: Mondays & First Tuesday of the Month
- Hours:
- Lunch: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM (Last order: 1:30 PM)
- Dinner: 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM (Last order: 10:00 PM)
- Budget:
- Dinner: 3,000–3,999 yen
- Lunch: 2,000–2,999 yen
- Smoking: Designated smoking areas available
Kyoto Gion Tempura Yasaka Endo: Exquisite Tempura with the Finest Ingredients
Located just an 8-minute walk from Keihan Gion-Shijo Station, this elegant tempura restaurant on Yasaka Street is housed in a beautiful sukiya-style building.
Stepping through the traditional noren curtain, you’ll find a charming stone-paved path leading to private Japanese-style rooms and counter seats. At the counter, you can watch skilled chefs prepare tempura right before your eyes.
The restaurant specializes in tempura made with seasonal vegetables, fresh seafood from Setouchi and Wakasa, and even river fish sourced from Japan’s pristine waters.
For lunch, try their signature “Aoi” Course for 6,600 yen (tax included). This special course features 13 exquisite tempura items, including their famous live kuruma-ebi (Japanese tiger prawn), and finishes with a flavorful tendon (tempura rice bowl). Every detail, from the finest oil to the freshest ingredients, reflects the restaurant’s dedication to quality.
Kyoto Gion Tempura Yasaka Endo Information
- Address: 566 Komatsu-cho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto
- Map: Google Maps
- Access: 8-minute walk from Keihan Gion-Shijo Station
- Phone Number: 075-551-1488
- Closed: Open year-round
- Hours:
- 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM (Last order: 8:00 PM)
- Budget:
- Dinner: 10,000–14,999 yen
- Lunch: 6,000–7,999 yen
- Smoking: Designated smoking areas available
Takeout Available! Traditional Saba Sushi at “Izuu”
Just a 5-minute walk from Keihan Gion-Shijo Station, Izuu is a historic sushi restaurant founded in 1781.
Izuu’s specialty is its famous Saba Sushi (mackerel sushi), prepared using techniques passed down since the restaurant’s founding. Featured in the Michelin Guide, this signature dish can be enjoyed dine-in or takeout, allowing you to savor its taste even after returning to your accommodation.
Priced at 5,148 yen (tax included), the Saba Sugata Sushi features perfectly fatty mackerel sourced from the Sea of Japan, carefully cured with high-quality kombu (kelp) from Hokkaido. The rich flavors of the mackerel, the tangy sushi vinegar, and the umami from the kombu blend harmoniously in every bite.
If you plan to order for takeout, please make a reservation in advance.
Izuu Restaurant Information
- Address: 367 Kiyomoto-cho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto
- Map: Google Maps
- Access: 5-minute walk from Keihan Gion-Shijo Station
- Phone Number: 075-561-0751
- Closed: Tuesdays
- Hours:
- Sales: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Until 9:00 PM on Sundays and holidays)
- Dine-in: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Last order: 9:30 PM)
(Until 9:00 PM, Last order: 8:30 PM on Sundays and holidays)
- Budget: 2,000–2,999 yen
- Smoking: Completely non-smoking
Kennin-ji Temple is a historic temple with many highlights, including the National Treasure “Fujin Raijin-zu” (Wind and Thunder Gods) and the famous paintings of two dragons in the Hatto (Main Hall).
Within the Hōjō (Main Building), you can find several beautiful Zen gardens, including a kare-sansui (dry landscape) garden, each offering a different view and atmosphere.
When visiting Kyoto, be sure to stop by Kennin-ji Temple and explore the surrounding attractions and dining spots as well!
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