Nanzen-Ji is one of the most well known Rinzai Zen temples in Japan. Emperor Kameyama loved this beautiful place so much that in 1264 he built his detached palace here. Later he became a student of the Zen Master Busshin Daimin Kokushi and he dedicated the palace as a Zen temple in 1291.
The temple has been rebuilt many times because of war and fire. It was rebuilt for the last time in the 16th century.
Its main building, the Seiryo-den, is famous for a beautiful rock garden and sliding doors (fusuma).
Among the subtemples open to the public are Nanzenin, whose garden is particularly beautiful in autumn.
The huge gate at the entrance of Nanzenji is called Sanmon, built in 1628 by Todo Takatora in memory of those who died at the Battle of Osaka Castle in 1616. On the upper floor there are various images of Buddha and paintings as well as good views of the temple complex.
Times and Prices
Admission: 500 Yen (Nanzenji), 500 Yen (Sanmon Gate), 300 Yen (Nanzenin, a sub temple)
Hours:08:40 - 17:00 (16:30 in winter)
Location
North east of Kyoto, near the start of the
Path of Philosophy
How to Get There
Subway Tozai Line. Get off at Keage Station (Approx. 10 Minute walk).
External Link
Official Nanzenji web site
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