Ninna-ji Temple

Welcome to Ninna-ji, one of Kyoto’s most historically significant and aesthetically refined Buddhist temples. Founded in 888 AD by Emperor Uda, Ninna-ji is a UNESCO World Heritage site and serves as the head temple of the Omuro…

We begin at the Niomon Gate, an imposing structure that stands as one of the 'Kyoto Three Great Gates,' alongside the Sanmon of Nanzen-ji and the Sanmon of Chion-in. Built in the early Edo period, this gate is distinctive because…

Entering the paid area of the temple, we find the Goten, the former residence of the temple’s imperial head priests. This complex of buildings is a masterclass in 'palace architecture,' featuring elegant sliding doors (fusuma)…

The gardens surrounding the Goten are among the most beautiful in Kyoto, designed to be viewed from the wooden verandas of the palace. The North Garden features a 'pond with a structure,' reflecting the classic 'shinden-zukuri'…

The 'main event' for many visitors to Ninna-ji is the Omuro Cherry Fields. Located behind the Middle Gate (Chumon), this area contains approximately 200 cherry trees that are unique to this temple. …

Standing tall in the eastern part of the precinct is the Five-Story Pagoda, an 'impressive ancient monument' that dates back to 1644. This pagoda is a rare example of Edo-period architecture that follows the more traditional…

At the northern end of the precinct lies the Kondo, or Main Hall. This building is a National Treasure and is historically significant because it was originally part of the Imperial Palace in Kyoto (the Shishinden) before being…

As we conclude our walk through Ninna-ji, I hope you have felt the 'elegant world' and 'profound significance' of this ancient temple. We have passed through one of the three great gates of Kyoto, explored the palace gardens of…