The Art and Zen of Kennin-ji Temple

Adding Spiritual and Cultural Depth to Your Kyoto Journey! Kennin-ji Temple is one of Kyoto's most iconic Zen temples, renowned for its rich history and its integration of art, gardens, and tea culture. It's an ideal destination for a deep exploration of Japanese Zen aesthetics. Below is a summary of **Kennin-ji Temple Sightseeing Recommendations**: --- ### **🏯 Must-See Highlights** 1. **"Twin Dragons" Ceiling Painting in the Dharma Hall** - Look up upon entering the Dharma Hall to witness the awe-inspiring twin dragon artwork (created by Koizumi Junsaku), symbolizing the guardians of Buddhist teachings. The interplay of light and shadow adds dramatic tension. 2. **Tawaraya Sōtatsu's "Wind and Thunder Gods" Folding Screen (Replica)** - While the original national treasure is housed in a museum, the temple's high-quality replica is still worth admiring. The gold-leaf background and dynamic deity figures exude vitality. 3. **Dry Landscape Garden "Daiou-en"** - Designed by modern garden master Mirei Shigemori, this garden uses sand patterns, moss, and stone arrangements to express the Zen concept of "a world in a single grain of sand."