Tenryu-ji Temple in Kyoto, Japan is one of the most important Zen temples in the country. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is the head temple of the Tenryu branch of Rinzai Zen Buddhism. The temple is a great place to explore and appreciate traditional Japanese culture and architecture. Here are 10 things to do at Tenryu-ji Temple in Kyoto.
1. Explore the Garden: Tenryu-ji Temple is renowned for its beautiful garden, which is one of the oldest surviving gardens in Japan. The garden features a large pond, numerous stone lanterns, and a variety of trees and shrubs. It is a great place to take a leisurely stroll and admire the beauty of nature.
2. Visit the Main Hall: The main hall of Tenryu-ji Temple is a stunning structure that is over 600 years old. It features a large wooden veranda, a tiled roof, and a large Buddha statue. Inside, you can find a number of paintings and sculptures that date back to the 14th century.
3. Take a Tour: Tenryu-ji Temple offers guided tours of the grounds and the main hall. The tours are a great way to learn more about the history and culture of the temple and the surrounding area.
4. Attend a Meditation Session: Tenryu-ji Temple offers daily meditation sessions for visitors. These sessions are a great way to experience traditional Japanese Zen Buddhism and learn about its practices and philosophies.
5. Visit the Tea House: The tea house at Tenryu-ji Temple is a great place to relax and enjoy a cup of matcha tea. The tea house also offers a variety of traditional Japanese sweets.
6. Attend a Tea Ceremony: Tenryu-ji Temple offers regular tea ceremonies for visitors. These ceremonies are a great way to experience traditional Japanese culture and learn about the art of making and serving tea.
7. Visit the Museum: Tenryu-ji Temple has an on-site museum that houses a collection of artifacts from the temple’s history. The museum is a great place to learn more about the temple and its history.
8. Check Out the Bonsai Garden: Tenryu-ji Temple has an impressive bonsai garden that is home to a variety of miniature trees. The garden is a great place to appreciate the art of bonsai and learn more about the practice.
9. Take a Hike: Tenryu-ji Temple is surrounded by a number of hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests. The trails are a great way to explore the area and get some exercise.
10. Attend a Festival: Tenryu-ji Temple hosts a number of festivals throughout the year. These festivals are a great way to experience traditional Japanese culture and enjoy some delicious food and drinks.
Tenryu-ji Temple in Kyoto is a great place to explore and appreciate traditional Japanese culture and architecture. Whether you’re looking to take a leisurely stroll through the garden, attend a meditation session, or take a hike in the surrounding area, Tenryu-ji Temple has something for everyone.