Shoren In Temple

One of our all-time favorite temples in Kyoto, Shoren-in is bypassed by almost all tourists and bus groups.

[Shoren-In Temple]

Formerly a retreat for the abbot of the Tendai School of Buddhish, Shoren-in is an intimate little temple perfectly situated against the green of the Higashiyama Mountains. Because it was originally built as a residence rather than a religious building, the place looks more like a villa than a temple, and that’s a good thing in this case. The superb buildings look over an exquisite garden, which is centered on a tranquil carp pond.

After inspecting the buildings, you can retrieve your shoes and explore the garden on foot (highly recommended). The way is clearly market and will take you by a fine tea house, where well-connected tea masters hold occasional tea ceremonies. You’ll eventually pass by a fine bamboo grove before coming out to a wide, mossy field. Like Kodai-ji Temple and Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Shoren-in occasionally does night light up, which may not be traditional, but they are awesome nonetheless.

English address:
69-1 Sanjobo-cho, Awataguchi, Higashiyama-ku

Japanese address::
東山区粟田口三条坊町69-1

Opening hours:
9am-5pm, last entry 4:30pm

Admission:
Adults: ¥500
High and junior high school students: ¥400
Elementary school students: ¥200

Non-smoking area: Yes

Nearest Transport:
3min walk from Jingu-michi Bus Stop, Kyoto City Bus 5, 46, or 100 from Kyoto Station
5min walk from Higashiyama Station, Tozai subway line

Telephone: 561-2345

Website: Official Website (English)

Where Is This Place Located?

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Near To Here:
Shoren-in Temple is located in Kyoto’s Southern Higashiyama district. See our complete list of things to do in Southern Higashiyama, including places to eat, nightlife and places to stay.

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