Kennin-ji Temple in Kyoto is a must-visit spot for autumn foliage viewing and kimono photography. This ancient Zen temple offers breathtaking scenery during the autumn foliage season. The vibrant red leaves and historic architecture of the gardens and corridors create a picturesque scene, perfect for even beginners to capture beautiful photos. Strolling through the grounds in kimono not only allows you to experience Kyoto's traditional culture, but also creates the most touching memories of your trip in autumn 2024.
Wear a kimono and experience the traditional atmosphere of Gion, Kyoto
After the pandemic, Kyoto's kimono rental shops have gradually reopened, and travelers in kimonos are once again seen strolling the streets. For beginners, Kiyomizu-dera Temple and the Gion area are classic strolls. Gion's streets retain a rich, ancient Japanese charm, allowing visitors to stop and take photos as they wander the streets.
On this trip, we followed the footsteps of a photographer friend, first enjoying the refreshing lemon ramen at the renowned Gion Menchu Muraji restaurant, then walking along the narrow path to Kennin-ji Temple. This route not only offers both delicious food and stunning views, but is also a great reference for first-time kimono photography enthusiasts.
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▲ It takes about 3 minutes on foot from Kyoto Gion to Kenninji Temple.
Introduction and tour of Kenninji Temple in Kyoto
Kennin-ji Temple was built in 1202, on land donated by Shogun Minamoto no Yoriie and founded by Zen Master Eisai. Its style is modeled after Baizhang Mountain, a temple from the Song Dynasty. The temple's name is derived from the reign title "Kennin," and the mountain's name is "Higashiyama." Initially, it served as a center for the practice of Tendai, Esoteric Buddhism, and Zen Buddhism. Over time, it gradually became a center for Zen practice and became one of Kyoto's most important Zen centers.
When the Muromachi shogunate established the "Five Mountains of Kyoto," Kennin-ji Temple was ranked third, thus prospering. However, war and fire destroyed much of the temple's buildings, and it wasn't until 1599 that it began to recover. During the Tokugawa shogunate, Kennin-ji Temple regained its protection, and its main hall and pagoda were gradually rebuilt. After the Meiji Restoration, despite the impact of the "abolishing of Buddhism" and the separation of Shinto and Buddhism, it survived and became the main temple of the Kennin-ji school of Rinzai Buddhism.
Today, Kennin-ji Temple is not only a major center for Zen Buddhist practice, but also attracts tourists with its long history and beautiful gardens, making it a classic location for viewing maple leaves and taking kimono photos.
▲ This trip to the red leaves was very fruitful, and I also asked my friends to help me take photos so that I can treasure it as a souvenir.
▲ At that time, I chose to visit on weekdays, and there were not many tourists.
▲ I didn’t expect to take pictures in a temple wearing a kimono. The atmosphere was quite quiet.
▲ One of the attractions of Jianren Temple is this picture of two dragons.
▲ If you choose to come to Kyoto in autumn, be sure to ask your husband to dress up and take photos together!
Conclusion
Looking at the photos, little Hamburger's first words were, "Why isn't I here?" His mom couldn't help but laugh. When he's older, he'll be able to wear a kimono with us and capture his own memories of Kyoto. If you're planning to visit Kenninji Temple in Kyoto to enjoy the fall foliage, don't forget to plan your kimono rental, change-in process, and schedule a professional photographer. Below, I've compiled comprehensive information for beginners to help make your trip easier and more memorable.
Extended reading:
- Kyoto Kimono Experience Guide: Detailed guide on styling and accessories preparation before visiting Novice Village!
- Riko Okamoto: Guide to walking in kimono under the cherry blossoms in Kyoto
- Kyoto Yumekan Kimono Experience: Record the beautiful moment of red leaves and ginkgo biloba interweaving
- Kyoto Kimono Outdoor Photography: Professional Photographers Record the Happiness Named after the Red Leaves
Kyoto Kenninji Temple
- Address: Komatsucho, Yamato-Oji-dori Shijo, Higashiyama District, Kyoto City
- Phone: +81 75561 6363
- Business hours: 10:00～16:30
- Official website: https://www.kenninji.jp/
