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
- 臨済宗天龍寺派
- Principal Image
- 釈迦如来
- Founded
- 1339年（暦応2年）
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
- 10月5日
曹源忌（開山忌）
開山夢窓疎石の命日法要
- 11月
秋の特別拝観
非公開エリアの特別公開
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