Map
The head temple of the Rinzai Zen Tenryuji school, set in the scenic Arashiyama and Sagano area of Kyoto. The Sogenchi Teien garden, designed by the master Muso Soseki, is registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and designated a National Historic Site and Special Place of Scenic Beauty.
Temple Info
- Sect
- Rinzai Zen, Tenryuji school
- Principal Image
- Shaka Triad (the seated Shaka Nyorai (the historical Buddha) enshrined in the Daihojo dates from the late Heian period)
- Founded
- 1339 (Ryakuo 2)
History & Origins
Founded in 1339 by Ashikaga Takauji, with Muso Soseki as the founding abbot, the temple was built to pray for the soul of Emperor Go-Daigo. It survived numerous fires over the centuries, including the destruction of the Onin War, to reach its present form.
Highlights
The Sogenchi Teien (a stroll garden that uses the mountains of Arashiyama and Kameyama as borrowed scenery), the dramatic Cloud Dragon painting on the ceiling of the Hatto lecture hall, and the nearby bamboo grove path are the key draws.
Visitor Guide
A perfect base for exploring Arashiyama. Most visitors combine a visit here with the bamboo grove and Togetsukyo Bridge. Separate admission tickets are available for the garden only, the main hall only, or full access.
Best Season
Beautiful in all four seasons—cherry blossoms, autumn foliage, and snow all create striking scenery.
Annual Events
- February
Setsubunsai (Setsubun Festival)
A Setsubun event held on February 3. Bean throwing and Seven Lucky Gods pilgrimages are held, and many worshippers visit.
- September
Godaigo Tenno-ki (Emperor Godaigo Memorial Service)
A memorial service held on September 15, the anniversary of the death of Emperor Godaigo, who was connected to the founding of Tenryuji. It is an important event commemorating the temple's origins.
- October
Kaizanki (Muso Soseki Memorial Service)
A memorial service held on October 30 for the anniversary of the death of the founder, Muso Soseki. It is a ceremony of gratitude to the Zen master who left the garden.
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