Kennin-ji
- Address
- Higashiyama-ku Shijō-sagaru
- Transport
- Phone
- 075 561 6363
- Price
- adult ¥500
- Hours
- 10am-4pm
Lonely Planet review for Kennin-ji
Founded in 1202 by the monk Eisai, Kennin-ji is the oldest Zen temple in Kyoto. It is 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 at Kennin-ji 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).








