Kenninji Temple
Kennin-ji建仁寺
Kenninji Temple
Kennin-ji建仁寺
About Kenninji Temple
Kennin-ji, founded in 1202, is Kyoto's oldest Rinzai Zen temple and one of the famed Kyoto Gozan (Five Great Zen Temples). Established by Eisai, who introduced Zen and tea cultivation to Japan, the complex features three distinct Zen gardens and a wealth of artistic treasures, including the famous 'Wind God and Thunder God' screens (replica) and a powerful 'Twin Dragons' ceiling painting.
Cultural Assets
'Wind God and Thunder God' Screens (Replica)
National TreasureA high-quality replica of the masterpiece by Tawaraya Sōtatsu. The original is housed in the Kyoto National Museum.
Main Halls (Hondō, Hōjō)
Important Cultural PropertyThe primary architectural structures of the temple complex.
Twin Dragons Ceiling Painting
ArtworkA powerful monochrome ink mural painted on the Hatto (Lecture Hall) ceiling to commemorate the temple's 800th anniversary in 2002.
Cultural Experiences
Zazen Meditation
Reservation RequiredAvailability: Periodic
Sutra Copying (Shakyō)
Reservation RequiredAvailability: Periodic
Last entry is 30 minutes before closing. The temple is closed from December 28-31.
¥500 for students (elementary-high school); children under elementary age are free. Visitors with a disability certificate also enter free. Viewing the exterior grounds is free.
Visitors typically spend 45-60 minutes. Optional meditation sessions or tea ceremonies may require additional time.
The temple grounds are mostly flat, but full wheelchair access is limited. Some buildings have steps, and paths are gravel.
Best Time to Visit
Best during the cherry blossom (April) and autumn foliage (November) seasons. To avoid crowds, visit early morning, late afternoon, or on weekdays.
Getting There
From Gion-Shijō Station (Keihan Line) or Kawaramachi Station (Hankyu Line), it's a 7-10 minute walk. Kyoto City Bus #100 or #206 from Kyoto Station also stop nearby.
Photography Policy
Photography is generally allowed outdoors, but video, tripods/monopods, selfie-sticks, and costume/kimono photoshoots are strictly banned. Photography is prohibited inside buildings.
