In this post, I share my visit to Nanzen-ji Temple, where I enjoyed exploring the Suirokaku Aqueduct and the Hojo Garden.
Nanzen-ji Temple on the Last Day of My Kyoto Trip
Just a Short Walk from the Hotel
After checking out of The Westin Miyako Kyoto, I headed to Nanzen-ji Temple. It’s within walking distance.
On the way, I walked through the tunnel under the Keage Incline, known as Nejiri Manpo (“Twisted Brick Tunnel”).
The Spacious Grounds of Nanzen-ji Temple
After a short walk, I arrived at Nanzen-ji Temple. It’s an expansive temple complex, and even the main gate is massive!
The Suirokaku Aqueduct Is Still in Use Today
If you walk further in, you’ll reach the Suirokaku Aqueduct, a place often used as a filming location and a popular photo spot on Instagram.
Located within Nanzen-ji Temple, the Suirokaku Aqueduct was built to carry water from Lake Biwa to Kyoto.
It’s still in use today—if you climb up the slope, you can see the water flowing steadily through the channel above. (Be careful not to fall!)
No, Pirates of the Caribbean doesn’t start here (laughs). Still, you can’t help imagining it!
The Beautiful Garden
Since the temple grounds are so large, there are several places to visit and worship, but perhaps the most famous and popular spot is the Hojo Garden. It features several beautiful gardens and is such a peaceful place to visit.
(I’m not very knowledgeable about gardens, so I’ll skip the details…)
There’s also a tea room, and I would’ve loved to experience it if I’d had more time. But I couldn’t this time because I had to head to my next destination soon. I’ll definitely come back for it next time.
Climbing the Sanmon Gate
Since I was there, I decided to go inside the Sanmon Gate. Right after entering, you have to climb this steep staircase.
Photography is prohibited on the stairs for safety reasons. Once you reach the top, you’re rewarded with a stunning panoramic view of Kyoto. Apparently, it’s one of the three great temple gates of Kyoto.
It was tough climbing up, but I’m so glad I did…
And later, I ended up with sore muscles… (haha)
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