Nanzen-ji Temple, Kyoto

Nanzen-ji Temple is an important temple at the southern end of the Philosopher's Walk in Kyoto. This is one of the most important Zen temples. It occupies the former site of Emperor Kameyama's villa. Established in 1386, it was placed in control of the five great Zen temples of Kyoto, the Gozan.

Of particular interest at Nanzen-ji Temple is the abbot's quarters, or Hojo. You can find here a small but charming dry garden built by Kobori Enshu (1579-1647). There are a few paintings on the wall, including a masterpiece known as Tiger Drinking Water, by Kano Tanyu.

Nanzen-ji Temple has a colossal Sanmon, a two-storey gate. It was built to console the souls of those killed in the Summer Siege of Osaka Castle. The outlaw Ishikawa Goemon, hid here - until he was captured and boiled alive.

Within the grounds of Nanzen-ji Temple are another twelve satellite temples, the most impressive of which are Konchi-in and Tenju-an.

The Japanese garden at Nanzen-ji Temple

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View of Nanzen-ji Temple from the outside.

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