Kennin-ji Temple

Religious spot
★ 4.9 (25K+ reviews) • 266K+ booked
Immerse yourself in the serene beauty and rich history of Kennin-ji Temple, a prominent Zen Buddhist temple nestled in the heart of Kyoto, Japan. Discover the allure of this ancient temple as you explore its stunning architecture, tranquil gardens, and intricate artwork. As one of the oldest Zen temples in Kyoto, Kenninji offers a unique blend of spirituality and artistry that captivates visitors from around the world. Experience the serene beauty and rich history of Kennin-ji Temple in Kyoto, Japan.
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584番地 Komatsuchō, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0811, Japan

The best of Kennin-ji Temple

Bucket-list experiences

Private Kyoto Geisha Districts Walking Tour

Private Kyoto Geisha Districts Walking Tour

Private group
★ 4.2 (19)
US$ 100.89
US$ 114.35
Kyoto Historical Highlights Cycling Tour with World Heritage Zen Tem

Kyoto Historical Highlights Cycling Tour with World Heritage Zen Tem

Easy refund
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★ 5.0 (1)
US$ 91.49
Nishiki Market Half Day Walking Tour with Tea Ceremony Experience
US$ 86.75
 Kiyomizu Temple Fushimi Inari Shrine Nara Park from Osaka/Kyoto

Kiyomizu Temple Fushimi Inari Shrine Nara Park from Osaka/Kyoto

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★ 4.5 (566)
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40 off
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Kyoto Kimono and Yukata Rental at Kimono Miyabi Kyoto

Kyoto Kimono and Yukata Rental at Kimono Miyabi Kyoto

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Easy refund
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★ 4.7 (1,686)
From US$ 17.35
30 off
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Tea Ceremony Class Experience in Kyoto

Tea Ceremony Class Experience in Kyoto

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★ 4.4 (249)
From US$ 7.39
Kyoto World Heritage & Uji Scenery One-day Tour (From Osaka/Kyoto)

Kyoto World Heritage & Uji Scenery One-day Tour (From Osaka/Kyoto)

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★ 4.9 (248)
From US$ 43.05
50 off
Sale
Kimono Rental, Japanese Makeup & Photoshoot by Ookini Kiyomizudera

Kimono Rental, Japanese Makeup & Photoshoot by Ookini Kiyomizudera

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★ 4.8 (212)
From US$ 19.59
20 off
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One Day Kimono Rental

One Day Kimono Rental

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★ 4.7 (4,600)
From US$ 28.15
Kiyomizudera Temple Kimono Rental Experience by Rental Kimono First

Kiyomizudera Temple Kimono Rental Experience by Rental Kimono First

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★ 4.9 (885)
From US$ 36.99
Kimono Rental in Kyoto Kiyomizu Temple

Kimono Rental in Kyoto Kiyomizu Temple

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★ 4.7 (3,616)
From US$ 25.99
Kimono Rental Experience in Kyoto by KANWA Yasaka Shrine Branch

Kimono Rental Experience in Kyoto by KANWA Yasaka Shrine Branch

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★ 4.8 (816)
From US$ 18.75
30 off
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APA Hotel Kyoto Gion EXCELLENT

APA Hotel Kyoto Gion EXCELLENT

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Peace House Sakura

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Gion Elite Terrace

Gion Elite Terrace

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US$ 263.98
Kyoto Gion Hotel

Kyoto Gion Hotel

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★ 5.0 (3)
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Trouble-free transport

Randen Pass

Randen Pass

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★ 4.5 (728)
From US$ 4.70
Kyoto car rentals | Choose from multiple car models
From US$ 48 /day
US$ 59.35
20 off
Kyoto - Tokyo Night Bus by VIP Liner

Kyoto - Tokyo Night Bus by VIP Liner

48-hour confirmation
★ 4.5 (106)
From US$ 53.80
Eizan Railway Ee Kippu 1-Day Pass

Eizan Railway Ee Kippu 1-Day Pass

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★ 4.6 (49)
US$ 8.09
Kyoto to Tokyo - Japan Rail Shinkansen (Bullet Train) Ticket

Kyoto to Tokyo - Japan Rail Shinkansen (Bullet Train) Ticket

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US$ 90.79
Kyoto to Shinagawa - Japan Rail Shinkansen (Bullet Train) Ticket
US$ 90.79

All that's good & tasty

Nanzenji Junsei Traditional Tofu Kaiseki Cuisine - Kyoto

Nanzenji Junsei Traditional Tofu Kaiseki Cuisine - Kyoto

Bestseller
Easy refund
★ 4.5 (214)
From US$ 35.60
Guenpin in Gion- Puffer Fish Specialist

Guenpin in Gion- Puffer Fish Specialist

Bestseller
Easy refund
★ 4.5 (416)
From US$ 36.39
Gion Kawakami (祇園川上) in Kyoto Gion
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Kyo Kurozakura in Kyoto Gion

Easy refund
★ 4.1 (55)
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Sopporo Kaniya - Crab Specialty in Kyoto

Sopporo Kaniya - Crab Specialty in Kyoto

Easy refund
★ 4.0 (48)
From US$ 53.05
Kameya Honke in Omiya - Traditional Tofu & Yuba Kaiseki
From US$ 38.69
Mokube in Gion - Michelin Starred Kaiseki
From US$ 205.79
Yamabana Heihachidiya in Kyoto - Centuries old Japanese Traditional Kaiseki
From US$ 36.35
US$ 39.20
Hamatoku (濱登久) in Kyoto - Creative Kaiseki
From US$ 66.59

Why people love Kennin-ji Temple

4.9 /5
25K+ reviews
Read all reviews
Utente Klook
23 Sep
Really nice experience, perfect hairdo. Couldn't ask for better, highly recommended!!
李 **
23 Sep
When exchanging tickets at Deryanagi Town, the station attendant kindly gave me a map of attractions along the route. In addition to ordinary trams, you can also ride the observation train, and the scenery is amazing!
Klook 用戶
23 Sep
The performance is very compact and good for a fixed-length drama. Overall, the entertainment is not as good as Nanta Show. However, the rhythm of the Japanese plot is different and it is worth experiencing.
2+
Olivia ***
23 Sep
fuss-free redemption and no hard selling to top up to more expensive kimonos. the staff can speak chinese and very courteous. venue not cramped as well. pleasent experience overall
클룩 회원
23 Sep
I really recommend it!! I got the subway pass pick-up place wrong and was 30 minutes late, but they didn't say anything and kindly guided me. There were many kinds of yukatas, and the staff were very professional, so it only took 30 minutes to put on the yukata and do my hair. They also did my hair really nicely and fixed it well, so it didn't get messy even though I ran around all day. They also provided everything from the yukata to hair accessories, bags, and clogs, without any additional charges, within the amount I paid, and they even gave me a plastic bag to put my shoes in. Also, when I said I wanted to change the color of my obi, they untied my original obi and replaced it with the new color, even though it was a hassle. The staff were so kind and professional that I felt good even before the trip started, and thanks to them, I was able to take a lot of pretty pictures throughout the trip! Next time I go to Kyoto, I will rent a yukata here. I highly recommend this place for yukata rentals!!
2+
Mon compte
23 Sep
great activity! I highly recommend, the staff was attentive and the choice of yukata + accessories was sufficient.
jerry ***
23 Sep
great experience to my kids. employee provide nest service and recommendations. nice kimono cloth and considered.
Usuario de Klook
23 Sep
Good location for kimono rentals. The saleswomen are very friendly, the steps they take to get you dressed is quite an experience. I highly recommend this place. Hair style and lots of accessories included.

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FAQs about Kennin-ji Temple

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What to know before visiting Kennin-ji Temple

Remarkable Landmarks and Must-Visit Sights

Ceiling Mural of Fierce Dragons

Marvel at the breathtaking ceiling mural depicting two fierce dragons locked in battle, a masterpiece of Japanese art and the largest of its kind in Japan.

Zen Garden

Find peace and tranquility in the meticulously designed Zen garden, a serene space filled with rocks, gravel, and moss, perfect for contemplation and meditation.

Historical Significance

Explore the temple's rich history, including its role as a center of Zen practice, learning, and artistic expression, as well as its connections to influential historical figures like Oda Nobunaga.

Cultural and Historical Significance

Founded in 1202 by the monk Yousai, Kennin-ji Temple is the oldest Zen temple in Kyoto and a vital center of Zen practice, learning, and cultural events. Discover the temple's architectural treasures and its role in Japanese history.

Dragon Ceiling Mural

Admire the iconic ceiling mural of fierce dragons battling it out, a must-see masterpiece of Japanese art that commemorates the temple's 800th anniversary.

Zen Garden

Experience the tranquility of the Zen garden designed by Kobori Enshu, featuring meticulously arranged elements that invite quiet contemplation and meditation.

Cultural Significance

Founded by Eisai, the temple holds historical importance as the birthplace of Zen Buddhism and tea cultivation in Japan. Visitors can witness centuries-old traditions and practices.

Location

Situated in the heart of Gion, Kenninji Temple offers a spiritual oasis amidst the bustling entertainment district. Accessible from nearby train stations, it is a must-visit destination in Kyoto.

Artistic Treasures

Marvel at the intricate dragon paintings, gilded screens, and ceiling murals that adorn the temple's halls, showcasing the artistic mastery and cultural heritage of Japan.

Local Cuisine

While visiting Kennin-ji, don't miss the opportunity to savor traditional Japanese cuisine at nearby restaurants. Indulge in local delicacies like matcha tea and Kyoto-style kaiseki meals for a truly authentic dining experience.