Located in Sagano Arashiyama, one of Kyoto’s most popular sightseeing areas, Tenryu-ji Temple is a top-ranking Zen temple worth visiting along with landmarks like Togetsukyo Bridge, Kameyama Park, and the Bamboo Grove.
In this article, we’ll explore Tenryu-ji’s main highlights, the best ways to get there, nearby attractions, and Shigetsu—a Michelin Bib Gourmand and Green Star-awarded Shojin cuisine restaurant located inside the temple grounds.
This spot is ideal for visitors interested in Japan’s history, Zen Buddhism, and traditional Shoji cuisine (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine). It’s also perfect for nature lovers, especially during cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons.
What is Tenryu-ji?
Tenryu-ji Temple was founded by shogun Ashikaga Takauji in memory of Emperor Go-Daigo, with Zen master Musō Soseki appointed as its founding abbot.
Musō Soseki was not only a Zen monk but also a skilled garden designer, poet, and calligrapher. Recognized by the emperor for his talents, he was awarded the title of “Kokushi” (National Teacher). The Zen gardens and dry landscapes (kare-sansui) he created have become iconic, and the Tenryu-ji gardens are now designated as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto.”
A Temple Built on Trials and Rebirth
Tenryu-ji lacked sufficient funds. To finance the project, trade with the Yuan dynasty (China) was resumed, and the temple was completed in 1345. It became ranked first among the Kyoto Gozan (Five Great Zen Temples of Kyoto).
However, the temple was repeatedly damaged by fires and by the Ōnin War. Its current grounds are only one-tenth of their original size. The Dharma Hall, Lecture Hall, Kitchen Office, and other buildings have since been rebuilt, preserving the temple’s dignified atmosphere.
Must-See Highlights of Tenryu-ji
Tenryu-ji showcases Musō Soseki’s creative vision throughout the temple grounds. Key highlights include the famous Unryu-zu (Cloud Dragon Painting) and the historic Daruma Painting.
Cloud Dragon Painting at the Hatto (Dharma Hall)
The Unryu-zu, a massive ceiling painting of a dragon in the Dharma Hall, gives the illusion that the dragon is staring at you from all directions—known as the “Eight-Sided Gaze Dragon.” This artwork is only open to the public on weekends and holidays, except during spring and autumn when it is open daily.
Viewing Schedule
Regular viewing: Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays
Special seasonal openings: March 1 – June 1, and September 20 – December 7, 2025 (daily)
Time: 9:00–16:30 (Last entry: 16:20)
Fee: 500 yen (Free for preschool children)
Daruma Painting and the Sōgenchi Garden
Upon passing through the Hatto, you’ll find the Daruma Painting in the Kitchen Office, representing the spirit of Zen Buddhism. Imagine what the expression might mean to you.
In the center, you’ll see two large stones representing Ryūmon no Taki (the Dragon Gate Waterfall). This refers to the legend of a carp that climbs a waterfall and transforms into a dragon. At Tenryū-ji, unlike the similar arrangement at Kinkaku-ji, the stones illustrate the exact moment when the carp is changing into a dragon.
Estimated visit time: 1 to 2 hours
Try Traditional Zen Cuisine at Shigetsu
引用：https://guide.michelin.com/jp/ja/kyoto-region/kyoto/restaurant/shigetsu
Located just south of the Sōgenchi Garden within the Ryumon-tei pavilion (one of the “Ten Views of Tenryu-ji” named by Musō Soseki), Shigetsu offers seasonal shojin ryori (Zen Buddhist vegetarian cuisine).
Made entirely without animal products, dishes are crafted using seasonal vegetables, wild herbs, and seaweed, offering nourishment that aligns with Zen philosophy.
Shigetsu has earned both the Bib Gourmand and Michelin Green Star in the Michelin Guide Kyoto & Osaka 2025.
Menus change seasonally, and the delicate flavors emphasize the natural tastes of ingredients. Meals are available in three tiers:
・Tsuki (One soup, six sides): 6,500 yen
・Tsuki (One soup, five sides): 3,800 yen
・Hana (One soup, seven sides): 9,000 yen
Reservations are required: at least two days in advance for Tsuki, and three days in advance for Hana.
| Shigetsu (Tenryu-ji Shojin Cuisine Department) Address: 68 Saga Tenryuji Susukinobabacho, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto Phone: 075-882-9725 (09:00–17:00) Hours: 11:00–14:00 Closed: Thursdays RESERVATION |
How to Access Tenryu-ji
Tenryu-ji is accessible by train or bus:
・From Keifuku Randen Arashiyama Station (2-minute walk)
・From JR Sagano Line Saga-Arashiyama Station (13-minute walk)
・From Hankyu Arashiyama Station (15-minute walk)
・By bus: Get off at “Arashiyama Tenryuji-mae” or “Keifuku Arashiyama Station-mae”
| Tenryu-ji Temple Address: 68 Saga Tenryuji Susukinobabacho, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto Phone: 075-881-1235 Hours: 8:30–17:00 Note: Early morning special viewings available during some seasons (see website) Official Website ：https://www.tenryuji.com/ |
Nearby Attractions
