About Tenryuji(Temple)

Tenryuji Temple is the head temple of the Tenryuji School of the Rinzai Sect, located on Arashiyama in Ukyo-ku, Kyoto, and was founded in 1339 by Ashikaga Takauji. Registered as part of the World Heritage Site "Cultural Properties of Ancient Kyoto" the temple attracts many visitors for its historical value, beautiful garden, and magnificent architecture.

The first and most significant feature of Tenryuji Temple is its historical and cultural background. Built by Ashikaga Takauji to pray for the repose of the soul of Emperor Godaigo, the temple is also a symbol of the prosperity of the Muromachi shogunate. The history of the temple is deeply connected to Japan's medieval history.

The garden at Tenryuji Temple is particularly famous and is known as the "Sogenchi Teien" (Sogen Pond Garden). This garden, designed by Soseki Muso, is a pond garden with a beautiful view of Mount Arashiyama and Mount Kameyama in the background. The garden is decorated with cherry blossoms in spring and autumn leaves in fall. A major attraction of the garden is that visitors can enjoy its natural beauty and tranquility as they stroll through the garden.

The architecture of Tenryuji Temple is also a highlight. In the Hatto Hall, the ceiling painting "Unryuzu" by Kano Tanyu is a powerful sight that overwhelms visitors. This painting is also known as "The Dragon Staring in All Directions" because the dragon's eyes appear to be staring at you from every angle.

Tenryu-ji Temple is also active as a Zen temple, offering Zen meditation and sutra copying programs that allow visitors to experience the spirit of Zen. This allows visitors to experience Japanese Zen culture and feel a sense of inner peace.

Tenryuji Temple is a tourist attraction that combines historical background, beautiful gardens, magnificent architecture, and Zen experiences. A visit to this temple, which is in harmony with the natural beauty of Arashiyama, will give visitors a deep appreciation of Kyoto's history and culture.