Temple
Kennin-ji
建仁寺
A Zen temple at the southern end of Hanamikoji, founded by Eisai, the monk who brought Zen and tea cultivation to Japan. The Dharma Hall ceiling has a twin dragon painting commissioned in 2002 for the temple's 800th anniversary.
Key facts
- Area
- Gion
- Station
- Gion-Shijo (Keihan Main Line)7 min walk
- Admission
- Paid entry
- Typical visit
- 45 min
- Hours
- 10:00 to 17:00 (entry until 16:30)
- Website
- www.kenninji.jp
Tip
Most of the outer grounds are free to walk through; the fee covers the main buildings, gardens and paintings.
01Where to stay
Stay nearby
This place is in Gion. Median hotel rate in the latest sample: US$541 per night. Where to stay in Gion
Prices and availability come from the booking sites and can change.
02Map
Nearby places
- Temple Rokuharamitsu-ji 六波羅蜜寺 A temple between the Kamo river and Higashiyama whose treasure hall holds Heian and Kamakura period sculpture, including the standing statue of the monk Kuya. Paid entry 30 min 7 min walk
- Landmark Minamiza Theatre 南座 A kabuki theatre at the east end of Shijo bridge, founded in the early Edo period on the same site. Paid entry 30 min 1 min walk
- Street Hanamikoji-dori 花見小路通 The main street of the Gion geisha district, running south from Shijo-dori to Kennin-ji. Free entry 30 min 5 min walk
- Street Pontocho 先斗町 A narrow alley running from Shijo-dori to Sanjo-dori one block west of the Kamo river, packed with restaurants and bars from inexpensive yakitori to exclusive traditional dining. Free entry 45 min 3 min walk
Sources · Verified 24 September 2026