ABOUT
About this spot
Tenryu-ji is a Rinzai Zen temple in Sagano-Arashiyama, in Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, and the head temple of the Tenryu-ji school. It has long been ranked first among the Five Great Zen Temples of Kyoto and is registered as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site "Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto." The temple stands on the former site of the Danrin-ji temple and the Kameyama Palace of Emperor Kameyama. After Emperor Go-Daigo died, Ashikaga Takauji founded the temple to pray for his soul, with the monk Muso Soseki as its first abbot. A temple-funding trading ship, the Tenryu-ji-bune, was sent out to raise money for the construction, and the dedication ceremony was held in 1345. The highlight is the Sogenchi Garden behind the main hall (Daihojo). Designed by Muso Soseki, this strolling pond garden borrows the scenery of Mt. Arashiyama and Mt. Kameyama. It is designated a Special Place of Scenic Beauty and a Historic Site, and is said to be the first garden in Japan to receive these designations. Walking on toward the north gate, you will pass the Boukyo no Oka hill and the Hyakkaen garden. The ceiling of the Dharma Hall (Hatto) features the "Dragon Glaring in Eight Directions," painted by Kayama Matazo in 1997. It is open on special days only. Autumn foliage and fresh greenery are the best seasons; arrive in the morning to enjoy the garden in relative quiet. Allow 30 to 60 minutes for the garden, or up to two hours if you also visit the halls and the dragon painting. The famous bamboo grove path begins just outside the north gate. It is about a 13-minute walk from JR Saga-Arashiyama Station.
Last updated October 24, 2026