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Nanzen-ji Temple

Name: Nanzen-ji Temple
Address: Nanzenji Fukuchicho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8435, Japan
Rating: 4.5

4.5 (200)・Tourist Attraction・Place Of Worship・Point Of Interest・Establishment

Nanzen-ji Temple, a famous temple in Kyoto, is a beautiful and peaceful place. It was built in the 13th century and is known for its impressive gates and serene gardens. The temple's main gate, Sanmon, offers a stunning view of the surrounding area. This gate is huge and has a platform where visitors can stand and enjoy the scenery.

The temple grounds include beautiful gardens and ponds, making it a great place for a relaxing stroll. The Hojo Garden is particularly popular, with its carefully arranged rocks and tranquil water features. This garden reflects the Zen philosophy of simplicity and harmony with nature.

Nanzen-ji Temple is not just a place for quiet reflection; it also has historical significance. The temple has been a center for Zen Buddhism in Japan for centuries. Its beautiful buildings and serene surroundings attract many visitors each year, making it a must-see destination in Kyoto.

Hours:

8:40 AM to 5:00 PM (March to November)

8:40 AM to 4:30 PM (December to February)

Closed:

No closing days

Available:

All year

Minimum Age:

All ages welcome

Fees

400 yen

Hours

Monday: 8:40 AM – 5:00 PM

Tuesday: 8:40 AM – 5:00 PM

Wednesday: 8:40 AM – 5:00 PM

Thursday: 8:40 AM – 5:00 PM

Friday: 8:40 AM – 5:00 PM

Saturday: 8:40 AM – 5:00 PM

Sunday: 8:40 AM – 5:00 PM

Phone

+81 75-771-0365

Website

nanzenji.or.jp

The area

Address

Nanzenji Fukuchicho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8435, Japan

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What other travelers are saying about Nanzen-ji Temple

Beautiful Buddhist temple which was not too crowded when visited. What I liked the most was the extremely well kept and detailed zen garden, it was raining during my visit so it felt extremely peaceful and calm. Really enjoyed some time to rest and think about life while looking to the beautiful wooden structure of the temple and beautiful gardens. At the entrance the massive gate really surprised me, incredible structure.

Julian Cadavid

May 11, 2025

Nanzenji is Buddhist temple with great wooden architecture. Very peaceful place. You can buy a ticket and climb up the wooden structure (ticket fee for adult 600¥)and you can see view of the city. I visited during cherry blossom season it was crowded. I think it is beautiful place to enjoy autumn colors too

Weeraratna Chandima

Apr 9, 2025

Quiet compared to other temples in Kyoto. A lovely zen garden to sit and contemplate life. Good exercise walking around the garden and temple.

AussieIslander

Jun 12, 2025

A lovely peaceful temple which wasn’t too crowded. Worth paying the additional small fee to climb the main pagoda and to visit the interior rooms and zen garden. It’s an easy cycle from the centre of Kyoto and plenty of bike parking on site.

Mark Syllonk

May 1, 2025

Beautiful and peaceful temple. Almost no one was around because it is winter season but was told it gets busy in the summer. Nothing really much except to walk around the temple and see rock gardens but the grounds are nice for pictures. If you are into the history and spiritual teachings, great visit but if not, don’t make the trip.