Kennin-ji

Kennin-ji is a Zen temple in the Higashiyama district of Kyoto, Japan, offering stone pathways and gravel gardens between its wooden halls. The compound features a meditation garden with three large rocks surrounded by white gravel, and interior courtyards that connect through covered corridors for visitors to explore.

Eisai established this site in 1202 after returning from China, where he had studied the Zen tradition. The grounds were destroyed during the Onin Wars and later rebuilt under the protection of the Ankokuji family.

The temple takes its name from the Kennin era during which it was established, following a common Japanese practice for naming buildings. Visitors regularly come to see the Wind and Thunder Gods depicted on folding screens displayed in the main hall.

The entrance sits on a quiet lane away from main streets, and the grounds remain open year-round except for some ceremonial days. Visiting in the morning works best when the gardens see fewer people and light filters softly through the sliding doors.

The ceiling painting shows two dragons covering an area as large as 108 tatami mats placed together. Visitors often notice that the dragons appear to follow their gaze from every angle in the room.

Location: Higashiyama-ku

Inception: 1202

Founders: Eisai

Fee: Yes

Charge: 800 JPY;500 JPY

Part of: Kyoto Gozan

Address: 京都府京都市東山区大和大路四条下る四丁目小松町584

Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday 10:00-17:00

Phone: +81755616363

Website: https://kenninji.jp

GPS coordinates: 35.00099,135.77366

Latest update: December 12, 2025 23:41