Kennin-ji Temple

Kennin-ji Temple is Kyoto’s oldest Zen temple and the head temple of the Kennin-ji school of Rinzai Zen Buddhism. Founded in 1202 by the monk Eisai, who introduced Zen Buddhism and tea culture from China, the temple is one of Kyoto’s most important cultural and spiritual landmarks.

Located just south of Gion, Kennin-ji offers a peaceful retreat from the busy streets outside. Visitors can admire elegant Zen gardens, remarkable screen paintings, and the spectacular Twin Dragons ceiling painting, making it one of the highlights of any visit to Higashiyama.

History

Kennin-ji was established in 1202 with the support of Minamoto no Yoriie, the second shogun of the Kamakura shogunate. Its founder, the Zen monk Eisai, is also celebrated for introducing tea cultivation and the custom of drinking green tea to Japan.

Although the temple was damaged several times by fire, it was repeatedly rebuilt and remains an important center of Zen practice. Over the centuries, Kennin-ji has played a major role in shaping Japanese Zen culture, art, architecture, and the tea ceremony.

Highlights

Twin Dragons Ceiling Painting

Marvel at Koizumi Junsaku’s magnificent ink painting of two dragons covering the ceiling of the Dharma Hall.

Circle-Triangle-Square Garden

Discover a contemporary Zen rock garden inspired by three simple geometric forms representing the universe.

Wind and Thunder Gods Screen

See a faithful reproduction of Tawaraya Sōtatsu’s masterpiece, one of Japan’s most celebrated works of art.

Chōon Garden

Relax beside an elegant dry landscape garden designed to express the tranquility of Zen Buddhism.

Kyoto’s Oldest Zen Temple

Experience the birthplace of Kyoto’s Zen tradition and learn about Eisai, who introduced both Zen and tea to Japan.

Visit Tips

Visiting in the morning provides a quieter atmosphere, allowing you to appreciate the gardens, artwork, and temple buildings without large crowds. Be sure to spend time in both the Dharma Hall and the main temple buildings to fully experience Kennin-ji’s artistic treasures.

Kennin-ji is conveniently located within walking distance of Gion, Yasaka Shrine, Hanamikoji Street, Kōdai-ji, and Kiyomizu-dera. It is an ideal stop on a full-day walking tour of Kyoto’s Higashiyama district.