Overview
Founded in 1291, Nanzen-ji is the head temple of the Rinzai Nanzen-ji school and holds the highest rank among Japan's Zen temples, 'above the Five Mountains.' A Meiji-era brick aqueduct (Suirokaku) crosses the grounds, creating an unusual scene where temple architecture meets Western engineering, and it has been featured in numerous films and dramas. Visitors can climb the massive Sanmon gate for views over Kyoto, and the garden of the sub-temple Tenju-an nearby is also beautiful. Main hall garden admission JPY 600. An 8-minute walk from Keage Station (Tozai Line).
Travel Tips
Photos taken beneath the brick aqueduct make for a unique composition. Pair it with a walk along the cherry-lined Keage Incline.
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🇰🇷 Tips for Korean Travelers
Practical info for Korean travelers heading to Kyoto, Japan from Seoul (ICN).
Korean Passport · Visa
Check visa rules for Japan on the Korean MOFA travel advisory site before flying — visa-free, visa-on-arrival or e-visa rules change often. Keep at least 6 months of passport validity.
Flight from Incheon (ICN)
Compare direct and connecting flights from Incheon (ICN) to Kyoto on Skyscanner or Google Flights. Early-morning departures from Korea are usually the cheapest option.
KRW ↔ Local Currency
Check the live FX widget above for the latest KRW rate. Korean travel cards like Travel Wallet, Hana EZ and Toss FX offer free local ATM withdrawals and competitive rates.
Korean Community · Korean Food
Many cities have an active Korean community in Kyoto with Korean restaurants, mini-marts, and Korean-speaking guides. Search Naver Cafe or KakaoTalk open chats for "Kyoto 한인" before you go.
Attractions near Nanzen-ji
Tap a pin on the map to jump to that attraction.
Fushimi Inari Taisha
A mystical shrine famed for its endless tunnels of vermilion torii gates.
📍 5.3km away
Ryoan-ji Temple
Zen temple home to the world's most famous karesansui (dry landscape) rock garden.
📍 7.3km away
Things to Do in Kyoto
Kimono Walk in Gion
Rent a kimono and stroll Gion and Yasaka Shrine. Rental about JPY 3,000-6,000
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Rickshaw
Rickshaw tour through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and surroundings. From JPY 9,000/30min for 2
Fushimi Inari Night Hike
Walk through thousands of torii gates at night for a mystical atmosphere. Free, open 24 hours