Nanzen-ji Temple

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.

Very little tourists and a huge temple ground. Looks amazing when it is snowing as well. Would recommend cycling here, the temple has a bicycle parking area. We rented a bicycle using “hello cycling”and we jus temporarily locked our bicycles in the parking area.

World heritage Nanzen-ji temple is famous for big garden, building, autumn leaves and arch shaped bridge. Difficult to take pictures since crowded place. Arch shaped bridge is a water cannel. Entrance free, great place to enjoy autumn leaves. Has become stage for lots of Japanese movies and tele dramas. Not very far from the station, walkable distance.

Nanzenji Temple (南禅寺), located at the base of Kyoto’s Higashiyama mountains, is one of the most significant Zen temples in Japan. Founded in 1291 during the Kamakura period, it serves as the head temple of the Nanzenji school within the Rinzai sect of Zen Buddhism. The temple’s origins trace back to Emperor Kameyama, who established his retirement villa on the site and later converted it into a Zen temple. Nanzenji is renowned for its serene atmosphere, impressive architecture, and historical importance. The Sanmon gate, a towering wooden structure built in 1628, is one of the temple’s iconic features. Visitors can climb to the top for panoramic views of Kyoto and surrounding mountains. The gate also holds historical significance as a memorial to those who died during the 1615 siege of Osaka Castle. The temple complex includes a series of sub-temples and beautiful gardens. Among these is the Hojo, the former abbot’s quarters, which features a classic Zen rock garden. The garden’s simplicity and meticulous design reflect the essence of Zen aesthetics. Another notable feature is the brick aqueduct from the Meiji period, which cuts through the temple grounds, blending historical periods and serving as a popular photo spot. Nanzenji’s tranquil environment and rich history make it a place of deep spiritual reflection. It offers visitors a chance to connect with Zen philosophy while exploring one of Kyoto’s most iconic cultural landmarks, blending nature, art, and spirituality seamlessly.

Expansive grounds and ideal destination to combine with Philosophers Path and Eikando Zenrinji. You can opt to buy a ticket and climb up the wooden gates. But you'll also have a lot to explore just on the grounds which is usually sufficient to appreciate the structures.