Tenryū-ji

Tenryū-ji is a Buddhist temple in Shinagawa featuring detailed wooden structures, traditional gates, and carefully arranged stone pathways that encircle a central meditation hall. The compound blends architectural elements with an expansive garden design.

The temple was founded in 1581 and served as a center for Rinzai Zen practices and teachings during the Edo period. This long history shaped its role in the local Buddhist community.

The garden employs the shakkei technique to blend the surrounding mountains into the designed landscape. This method creates a visual harmony between the created space and the natural environment.

The temple is open to visitors during daytime hours, generally from early morning through late afternoon. Access to the interior buildings and garden areas are managed separately, so it is worth checking current conditions before visiting.

The temple restaurant Shigetsu prepares traditional Buddhist vegetarian dishes following ancient recipes and seasonal ingredients. Visitors can experience the culinary traditions that reflect the temple's spiritual practices.