Nanzen-ji Temple
南禅寺
- Address
- 京都府京都市左京区南禅寺福地町
Collectible stamp
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History
Nanzenji was established in 1291 at Emperor Kameyama’s former villa with Mukan Fumon as founding abbot.
Sources1
Timeline
Founding, rebuilding, and milestones across the centuries.
- 1291
About the era labels
Browse places by founding, rebuilding, and other events in each historical era.
Explore the grounds
An illustrated overview of the grounds. Match the numbers to the landmarks below.
Landmarks on this map
Sanmon Gate
Monumental temple gate rebuilt in 1628, representing three paths to liberation.
Dharma Hall
Central ceremonial hall, rebuilt in 1909 and enshrining Shakyamuni Buddha.
Temple Headquarters
Monks’ living quarters and administrative headquarters of the Nanzen-ji school.
Hōjō Halls
Connected large and small abbots’ quarters, designated a National Treasure.
Imperial Messenger Gate
Former palace gate historically opened for imperial visits and messengers.
Middle Gate
Gate donated from Matsui Yasuyuki’s Fushimi residence, now south of the imperial gate.
Nanzen Kaikan Lodging
Temple lodging for visitors staying beside the Nanzen-ji precinct.
Nyoshintei Garden
Dry landscape garden with stones arranged in the shape of the character for heart.
Suirokaku Aqueduct
Brick aqueduct completed in 1888 to carry a branch of the Lake Biwa Canal.
Map sources & credits
Visiting information
Hours, admission and access can change. Confirm current details with the site before travelling.
Access & etiquette
General viewing is unavailable 28–31 December, and reception ends twenty minutes before the seasonal closing time.