Tenryuji is the most important temple in Kyoto's Arashiyama district. It was ranked first among the city's five great Zen temples, and is now registered as a World Heritage site.

Tenryuji is the head temple of its own school within the Rinzai Zen sect of Japanese Buddhism.

Tenryuji was built in 1339 by the ruling shogun Ashikaga Takauji. Takauji dedicated the temple to Emperor Go-Daigo, who had just passed away.

The two important historic figures used to be allies until Takauji turned against the emperor in a struggle for supremacy over Japan. By building the temple, Takauji intended to appease the former emperor's spirits.

Tenryuji's buildings, were repeatedly lost in fires and wars over the centuries, and most of the current halls, including the main hall (Hojo), drawing hall (Shoin) and temple kitchen (Kuri) with its distinctive small tower, date from the relatively recent Meiji Period (1868-1912).

Unlike the temple buildings, Tenryuji's garden survived the centuries in its original form.

Created by the famous garden designer Muso Soseki, who also designed the gardens of Kokedera and other important temples, the beautiful landscape garden features a central pond surrounded by rocks, pine trees and the forested Arashiyama mountains. Muso Soseki also served as Tenryuji's first head priest.

Getting There: The temple can be reached in a 5-10 minute walk from JR Saga-Arashiyama Station. Alternatively take bus #11 from downtown and get off at Tenryu-Ji bus stop.

Admission Fee: is 500-800 Yen per person.

Opening Hours: 08:30 am to 5 pm.

Importance Rating: 8 - this is one of Kyoto's top temples and well-worth visiting.

Busyness Rating: 8 - it gets very busy during Cherry Blossom season.

Top Tips: For a more peaceful visit, visit early in the morning or on a weekday if possible. They do have sitting meditation here on the 2nd Sunday of every month - check for the latest info.

There are lots of restaurants near Tenru-ji serving Japanese kaiseki food.