Shōren-in Temple in Kyoto

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Vear Chion-in, at the foot tucked at the foot hill of Kyoto’s Higashiyama mountains, Shōren-in Temple is one of the city’s quieter treasures.  Though smaller and less crowded than its famous neighbours, it holds an elegance that lingers long after you leave.  It is a must-visit and remains an easy one, just a five-minute walk from the Higashiyama district.

The temple traces its origins to the late 11th century, when it was established as a temple for the Tendai sect associated with Enryaku-ji.  For generations, it served as a residence for the heads of the powerful Tendai school, and even as a temporary Imperial Palace during times of upheaval.  More than 800 years later, Shōren-in still carries this quiet dignity, woven into its gardens and halls.

Four different gardens connect the temple buildings, each designed to shift with the seasons.   Among them, a serene bamboo grove stretches upward, its whispering stalks creating a natural curtain between temple and city.

Inside lies the temple’s most celebrated space: the Kacho-den room.  Here, sliding screens (fusuma) bloom with lotus paintings by contemporary artist Kimura Hideki.  Above, 36 framed portraits with poems from 36 different poets look down, a reminder of the temple’s deep cultural ties. Beyond the Kacho-den, a quiet tearoom opens to the Soami-no-Niwa Garden.  During the cold months, this is a delightful place to enjoy a hot drink and a sweet treat while taking in the beauty of the garden.

青蓮院 Shōren-in Temple 
(81)  75.561.2345 
69-1 Awataguchi Sanjobocho, Higashiyama Ward;  Kyōto Prefecture 605-0035 Japan 
www.shorenin.com