Map
Nanzenji is the head temple of the Nanzenji branch of the Rinzai school, founded in 1291 (the 4th year of Shoo) by Retired Emperor Kameyama. A prestigious Zen temple ranked at the top of the Kyoto Five Mountains, its grounds hold the Edo-period Sanmon gate (National Treasure) and the Meiji-era brick aqueduct Suirokaku, together forming a distinctive landscape where history and the modern era blend.
Temple Info
- Sect
- Rinzai Zen, Nanzenji school
- Principal Image
- Shaka Nyorai (the historical Buddha)
- Founded
- Shoo 4 (1291)
History & Origins
It began when Retired Emperor Kameyama converted his detached palace into a Zen temple, and eminent monks such as Muso Soseki served as abbots. In the Muromachi period it was placed at the highest rank, 'above the Five Mountains,' of the Kyoto Five Mountains, and flourished as a center of Zen culture. The present Sanmon was rebuilt in 1628 (the 5th year of Kan'ei).
Highlights
The Sanmon (National Treasure), also called the 'Tenka Ryumon,' is a two-storied tower gate about 22 m high, known for Ishikawa Goemon's famous line 'Zekkei kana' (What a magnificent view!). The brick Suirokaku running across the grounds is part of the Lake Biwa Canal built in 1888 (the 21st year of Meiji) and has a unique charm. The Hojo garden (a National Place of Scenic Beauty) is also a must-see.
Visitor Guide
About a 5-minute walk from Keage Station on the Subway Tozai Line. The grounds are free to enter. Admission to the Hojo and garden is 600 yen for adults (varying by season). Hours are 8:40-17:00 (until 16:30 from December to February). Allow about 1-1.5 hours.
Best Season
The November autumn foliage season is the most beautiful, when the areas around the Sanmon and Suirokaku are vividly colored. The ao-momiji (green maples) of early summer also bring out the coolness of the grounds.
Annual Events
- November
Autumn Special Opening
A special opening held at the peak of the autumn foliage. The Sanmon gate and the Hojo garden are illuminated at night, offering a dreamlike scene.
- September
Kameyama Hoo Gyoki (Memorial for Retired Emperor Kameyama)
A memorial service held on September 12 for Retired Emperor Kameyama, the founder of the temple. It is a traditional event deeply tied to the history of Nanzenji Temple.
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