Kennin-Ji

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  • Phone
    561 6363
  • Transport
    underground rail: 10min walk from Shijō Station, Keihan line

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Lonely Planet review

Founded in 1202 by the monk Eisai, Kennin-ji is the oldest Zen temple in Kyoto. It's an island of peace and calm on the border of the boisterous Gion nightlife district and it makes a fine counterpoint to the worldly pleasures of that area. The highlight is the fine and expansive karesansui garden. The painting of the twin dragons on the roof of the Hōdō hall is also fantastic; access to this hall is via two gates with rather puzzling English operating instructions (you'll see what we mean).