Built-in 1195, this was Japan's first Zen Buddhism Temple, focused on the Rinzai sect, introduced by the priest Eisai who brought it over from China. Though you cannot enter the temple building itself there is enough to see in the grounds around it. Check out the many temple gates, the most prominent of which is the Sanmon Gate, which is close to a small pond and a bridge. There is also a carved plate on the gate, commissioned by Emperor Gotoba. Numerous smaller temples around this one and walking from one to another is quite tranquil experience.

• Limited parking is available.

• Gion Subway Station, Kuko/Yellow Line
• 3, 3-1, 3-2, 3-3N, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 15, 19, 29, 29N, 30, 32, 39, 39B, 40, 47, 48, 48-1, 50, 56, 57, 68, 80, 88, 99, 100, 113, 114, 200, 201, 202, 203, 204, 208, 306, 312, 400, 503, 506, 507, 514, 515, 526 stop Gion-machi

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