Nanzen-ji Review – The Zen Temple You’ll Fall in Love With

Review of Nanzen-ji – The Zen temple that I fell in love with when the leaves changed color Previously, I had seen the popular framed picture of the red Sanmon Gate on the internet, but when I saw the real thing… it was a feeling of “being there until I forgot to breathe”. 🍂 The atmosphere that I could feel • The tall Sanmon Gate, surrounded by deep red and orange maple leaves. When I got close, it was like walking into an ancient painting. During the day, the natural lights added a lot of dimension.  • The Suirokaku Aqueduct walkway is a Roman brick arch in the middle of nature. Under the arch, there are trees changing colors, adding charm. The walkway on the side is quiet, perfect for stopping to take emotional photos.  • Walk deeper into the small gardens like Tenjuan or Nanzen-in, you will find a small, beautiful, simple, romantic garden that is not chaotic. It's like having your own temple.  🕰 Time to go • Mid-November, overall, about 80-90% of the red leaves are at their peak. The colors are intense and packed throughout the area. • Go early in the morning (opens at 8:40) for peace and quiet, and a chance to take pictures without crowding. • Some years at night, there is an illumination with lights decorating the leaves. This year, it was cancelled. It is recommended to visit in the evening near sunset instead. () ✅ Tip • Come as early as possible or in the evening before it closes to take beautiful soft-light photos. • Good walking shoes are very important. Walk both on the slopes and stairs. • Buy a ticket to enter the small gardens (Hojo/Sanmon/Tempin) for about 500-600 yen. • Walk slowly and don't just take pictures in front of the main gate. You'll miss out on the beautiful angles of the quiet garden. ⸻ Summary "Standing under the Sanmon Gate and looking back at the red leaf forest behind me is a moment in my eyes that I want to keep for the rest of my life." This temple is not just a photo spot, but a moment where nature + history + full-flavored colors breathe together in harmony. #Get discounts without relying on luck