Five Great Zen Temples of Kyoto (Kyoto Gozan)

Please activate Javascript.

Domo arigato.

This post can contain affiliate links, which means that we may receive a small commission if you make a purchase using these links.

Facts & Figures

The Five Great Zen Temples (Five Great Mountain Temples) of Kyoto and above them all the Nanzenji Temple played an important role in the history of Japan. These gozan temples contributed to Japanese cultural arts such as tea ceremonies (sado), calligraphy, painting, literature, tea ceremony, garden landscapes, martial arts, and architecture. Through a huge network of subtemples, their influence could be seen all over the country. Emperors and shoguns used them also as an instrument of political power. The Five Great Mountains (temples) of Japan were first established in Kamakura and later five other temples were appointed in Kyoto by order of the Ashikaga shogunate (1338 - 1573). Best Ryokans in Kyoto Explore Ryokans in Kyoto >
Ryokans are the perfect way to discover old Japanese culture and traditions.

Nanzen-ji Temple - Supervisor Role

The huge Nanzen-ji Temple complex with its famous Sanmon Gate is one of the most important Zen temples in Japan. It is a designated National Historic Site. The best time to visit the area is during the cherry blossom season. Do not miss the beautiful Hojo Garden, an official place of Scenic Beauty, during your sightseeing tour.

Read More

Tenryu-ji Temple - First Rank

Tenryu-ji Temple has the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994. It is the head temple of the Rinzai Zen Buddhism School. The outstanding feature of the temple complex is the Sogenchi Garden (Sogenchi Teien). It received the status of a Site of Special Historic and Scenic Importance by the Japanese government.

Read More

Shokokuji Temple - Second Rank

Shokokuji is the headquarters of Shokokuji School of the Rinzai sect of Buddhism and includes over 100 sub-temples within Japan. After you enter the temple grounds you will see the impressive Dharma Hall (Hatto). It is the oldest Buddhist Lecture Hall in Japan dating back to 1605.

Read More

Kennin-ji Temple - Third Rank

Kennin-ji was founded in 1202 by Shogun Minamoto Yoriie (1182 - 1204). The Zen Buddhist temple is the oldest in Kyoto and belongs to the Rinzai sect of Zen Buddhism. The Zen garden Chou-on-tei behind the main building and the twin dragons painting on the ceiling of the Hodo hall are my must-see recommendations for you.

Read More

Tofukuji Temple - Fourth Rank

Tofukuji was founded in 1236. The Zen Buddhist temple is the head temple of the Tofukuji School of the Rinzai sect. Tofukuji with its 24 sub-temples covers an area of 240000 m2, which makes it the largest in Kyoto. The place is known for its unique garden architecture and the oldest Zen gate (Sanmon) in Japan.

Read More

Manju-ji - Fifth Rank

Manju-ji was founded in 1305 during the Heian period (794 - 1185). The Zen Buddhist temple is a subtemple of Tofukuji. Unfortunately, the whole temple complex is not open to the public.

My tips for local activities

Local guide in Kyoto

How about exploring the best parts of my favourite city Kyoto with a local guide? The personalized tour by our partner GetYourGuide can take between 2 - 8 hours. For more details check out this page >

My 100 Best Moments in Japan

Yokohama Street Scene

I have visited Japan nearly every year since 2004. This is my collection of the 100 best moments in my favorite country. Enjoy the pictures and I hope you will start your own journey soon.
Find out more >

Books about Japan

My recommended books about Japan

Reading books is a great source of inspiration for me. Check out my recommended list of books about the fascinating country Japan.
My Book recommendations >