Religious site · Gion
Kennin-ji Temple Hatto
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Kennin-ji Temple Hatto (Dharma Hall) is a key building within Kennin-ji, one of Kyoto's oldest Zen temples, founded in 1202. Located in the Gion district, the Hatto is renowned for its magnificent ceiling painting of two intertwined dragons, created by contemporary artist Koizumi Junsaku in 2002 to commemorate the temple's 800th anniversary. The hall is used for lectures and ceremonies, and its interior features traditional Zen architecture with tatami mats and sliding doors. Visitors can sit on the wooden veranda and contemplate the serene rock garden outside. The painting is best viewed from below, where the dragons seem to emerge from the clouds. The hall also houses a statue of the temple's founder, Eisai, who introduced Rinzai Zen and tea cultivation to Japan. The surrounding temple grounds include other notable structures like the main hall and a beautiful moss garden.
Don't miss
- Admire the massive twin dragon ceiling painting in the Hatto
- Sit on the veranda and view the karesansui (dry landscape) rock garden
- Visit the main hall to see statues of Buddhist deities and Eisai
- Explore the temple's moss garden and tranquil walking paths
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Kennin-ji Temple Hatto
You can visit on your own (paid entry, check official site for current fees. a combined ticket for the temple grounds is usually available). A tour adds transport and a guide, or combines nearby sights into one day.
Cheapest way inTraditional Tea Ceremony with Matcha and Sweets in Kyoto4.9★ · 171 travelers~1 hourFree cancellationFrom$25 per personSee dates →
Best full dayPrivate Kyoto Tour: Temples, Hidden Alleys & Local Stories4.9★ · 1,638 travelers2–7 hoursFree cancellationFrom$100 per personSee dates →
Top rated4.5-Hour Kyoto Bike Tour with Lunch and UNESCO Zen Temples5★ · 137 travelers~5 hoursFree cancellationFrom$95 per personSee dates →Good for
How travelers rate it
Know before you go
- Photography is allowed in the Hatto but no flash or tripods. Respect signs in other areas.
- Remove shoes before entering the hall; wear socks as the tatami can be cold in winter.
- Maintain silence inside the hall to preserve the meditative atmosphere.
- Pick up a free English map at the entrance to locate the Hatto and other highlights.
A bit of history
Kennin-ji was founded in 1202 by the monk Eisai, who brought Zen Buddhism and tea seeds from China. The Hatto was rebuilt after a fire in the 16th century, and the current dragon painting was added in 2002 for the temple's 800th anniversary.
Common questions
Can I see the dragon painting from outside?
No, the painting is on the ceiling inside the Hatto. You need to enter the hall to view it.
Is the Hatto open year-round?
Yes, but hours may vary by season. Check the temple's website for current opening times.
Are there guided tours available?
Self-guided visits are standard. Occasionally, English-speaking volunteers offer free tours, inquire at the ticket counter.
Can I participate in zazen meditation here?
Kennin-ji offers zazen sessions on certain mornings. Check the schedule in advance; reservations may be required.
Is there a gift shop?
Yes, a small shop sells temple-related items like incense, postcards, and books.
How does the Hatto differ from the main hall?
The Hatto is a lecture hall used for teachings, while the main hall (hondo) is for worship and houses the temple's main Buddha statue.
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