Nanzen-ji Temple “ì‘TŽ›
The vast complex of Zen temples revolving around Nanzen-ji is one of the most touristy area of Kyoto.
Nanzen-ji (lit. "Southern Zen Temple") is the head temple of the Nanzenji school of Rinzai Zen Buddhism and is the presiding temples of the Kyoto Gozan or "Five Great Zen Temples of Kyoto". The five temples in question are the Tenryu-ji, Tofuku-ji, Shokoku-ji, Kennin-ji and Manju-ji.
Nanzen-ji was first established in 1264 as a villa for Emperor Kameyama, and became a temple upon his death in 1291.
Most of th buildings were destroyed during the 15th century Onin Wars and consequently, most of the present structures only date from the 17th century.
The massive San-mon Gate was built in 1628 and its second floor commands great views over the city.
The prime attraction are the rock gardens and fusuma paintings in the Seiryo-den (Palace Hall).
Among the several subtemples' Zen gardens, those of the Nanzen-in, Tenju-an and Konchi-in stand out as the most attractive.
The location of the Nanzen-ji compound at the foot of the Hiagshiyama Hills is part of its charm. Bhind the Nanzen-in, a brick aqueduct built in 1890 leads to a small Shinto shrine and a waterfall well concealed in the depth of the lush woods. A track continues in the hills to the Daimon-ji temple (about two hours walk).
How to get there
Nanzenji is easily accessed on foot from Heian Jingu, Chion-in or Ginkakuji.
From Kyoto or Sanjo station take bus No 5 and get off at Eikan-mae.
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