Kennin-ji Temple
4.5 (200)・Tourist Attraction・Place Of Worship・Point Of Interest・Establishment
Hours
Monday: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Phone
Website
The area
Address
５８４番地 Komatsuchō, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0811, Japan
Top ways to experience Kennin-ji Temple
What other travelers are saying about Kennin-ji Temple
I went there for an exhibition by Poul Kajaeholme. The location was great, and even without the exhibition, I feel like the space in the temple is quite pleasant and worth visiting for a walk and to look around.
I went to the corner where you can see something like a traditional house within the temple grounds and a lovely garden. With the sunset light, the atmosphere felt very relaxing—you can truly enjoy your time and even capture a great photo there.
Don’t forget to visit during the magic hour! :)
Earn S.
Jan 11, 2025
An absolutely incredible temple that at first glance may not seem like much but this temple is one of the highest ranking temples in Japan and carries with it incredible important in Zen Buddhism in Japan. The temple grounds are a beautiful garden and the main hall is gorgeous with a huge mural of twin dragons on the roof. You will be required to take off your shoes before going into the temple grounds and there are special slippers in order to go into the main hall itself. Pictures inside the main hall are not allowed so please be respectful! Highly recommended and worth a trip to see one of the beautiful and most important temples in Japan!
Richard Tseng
Dec 4, 2024
Kenninji Temple, the oldest Zen temple in Kyoto, is a hidden gem known for its tranquil gardens and stunning art. The intricate dragon mural on the ceiling of the Dharma Hall is a highlight, alongside the minimalist rock gardens that invite quiet reflection. Tip: Take your time to explore the temple’s serene grounds, which offer a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Hang Hoang
Dec 31, 2024
This is an awesome Buddhist temple to visit and just sit. The zen garden is very peaceful and the spaces are meditative.
The red shoes you have to wear to see the twin dragons are small. If you are any taller than 1m70 then be prepared to feel weird. Just soak it up as an “experience” 😝
I do recommend you go to the toilet here too. If you have never walked to the loo with bells on your shoes then brace yourselves for the ride.
The old guards wandering around will tell you off if you don’t stick to the rules but they are polite and quite chill for the stickler type.
Yoel Ben David
Oct 2, 2024
Tranquil and peaceful temple. One of the oldest temples in Kyoto. Do note that there is an entrance fee of 800 Yen. But you get to see many painting and it’s a good place to have some peace and quiet and time to yourself.
Hand drawn gushoins here as well.
Glen
Nov 17, 2024
