Tucked in the shadows of Higashiyama (Eastern Hills) lays one of the most important and fascinating Zen temples of Japan – the Nanzenji Temple and grounds.

Once the retirement villa of the Emperor Kameyama, the Nanzenji grounds today, understandably, is wide spread in a huge carpet area and covers itself in a cluster of an impressive collection of 12 sub-temples and a few Zen gardens. What accentuates the beauty of the place is the lush green setting that blends beautifully with the historic wooden buildings. The entry to the grounds complex and its precincts are free, however, if you wish to explore the temple buildings and temples, separate charges may apply.
If you don’t mind emptying your pockets by a bit, go for the Sanmon gate (which also marks the entrance to the Nanzenji grounds) terrace views – the panoramic views from its terrace, accommodating the entire city of Kyoto, are amazing! The adjoining idyllic rock garden - Hojo garden, also known as the Tiger and Cubs Zen Garden, is well worth a visit too. A good way to conclude your expedition of the Nanzenji grounds is by visiting the roman styled aqueduct that is located a few meters ahead of the Hojo garden – it carries water from Biwa Lake to Kyoto and has been doing that for 100 long years – which makes a wonderful historic attraction by itself!