Japan

Kenninji Temple, Japan

About Kenninji Temple

Step inside and admire the ceilings enveloped in ink paintings of giant dragons and interior gardens. You will also find stunning painted screens of thunder and wind gods around you. Take a walk around the Chō’ontei Garden, a Zen Garden which is located behind the main building.

This is also known as the Garden of the Sound of the Tide and was constructed using three Sanzo seki. You will also see some beautiful Camellia Sinensis bushes around the gardens. They emphasise the importance of tea drinking in Japan and its connection to the temple.

Day Wise Timings

Burj Khalifa opening hours through the week.

Open 7 days a week

Paid entry

Monday10:00 – 16:30

Tuesday10:00 – 16:30

Wednesday10:00 – 16:30

Thursday10:00 – 16:30

Friday10:00 – 16:30

Saturday10:00 – 16:30

Sunday10:00 – 16:30

Hours are seasonal — confirm your date at checkout. Special events may extend closing time.

Kenninji Temple Highlights

• Admire the Zen Gardens and intricate cultural artwork adorning the building of the Kenninji Temple and conveying the tales of Japanese heritage.
• Visit the main hall, Hattou Building which displays a beautiful pent roof and statues of Japanese priests with screen-door paintings of thunder and wind gods.
• Stroll through the peaceful Choutei Garden to soak in the mossy yet soothing ambience and sit underneath the maple trees for meditation at San-zon-seki.
• Participate in the tea jar procession at the temple during May which depicts a strong connection between Japan’s tea-drinking origins and a Zen philosophy.
• Bask in the purity of the dry landscape garden which depicts the conceptualisation of the universe and the circle, triangle, and square paintings of monk Sengai.

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Point of Interest for Kenninji Temple

Look at the Twin Dragon painting at Dharma Hall, Hatto

This hall is one of the main structures within the building. The moment you step inside, you will find a twin dragon painting on the ceiling which was created by the famous artist Koizumi Junsaku. It symbolises the protection and power of the temple. You will also find various paintings of Raijin (God of Thunder) and Fujin (God of Wind) on the folding screens around. They were crafted by Tawaraya Sōtatsu and serve as the prime examples of Japanese art.

Explore the Tea Houses

Kenninji Temple has a strong connection with the tea-drinking habit of Japan and Zen Buddhism. There are tea houses occupied for the upcoming tea ceremonies. You can observe from afar or be a part of the ceremony to get insight into the preparation ritual. These houses also give you an insight into the meditation of the ancient Japanese tradition.

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