Hidden in the Higashiyama hills, not far from the Chion-in Temple, lies the oft-overlooked temple of Shoren-in. Visitors will first be greeted by a room of boldly painted sliding doors and then by a veranda with views of a picturesque garden. Pad softly along the temple's wooden porches before exploring the stone paths of the perfectly-landscaped grounds.With plenty of more celebrated temples in the vicinity, you'll most likely have this one all to yourself.
- 1 min read
Wander Through Shoren-in Temple
A quiet temple in the Higashiyama hills

By Mandy Bartok
Community writer
Join the discussion
Bonson Lam
11 years ago
The stunning flowers on the walls are bigger than life, like a decorator's dream come true.
1 comment in total
Book your trip
Find a nearby hotel
Explore some of the best nearby hotels and deals for the perfect place to stay in Japan.
Top Articles
-
1
Kamenoi Hotel Atami
Shizuoka - Sponsored -
2
Hokkaido Full Immersion Tour
Hokkaido -
3
Driving in Japan: Guide to ETC for Highway Toll Gates
Transportation -
4
Kyushu Craftsmanship and Traditions Heritage Tour
Article -
5
Starbucks Japan Spices Up Summer
Food -
6
Suica 2026 and Beyond: What’s New and What’s Cool
Culture -
7
70 Nations, One Amazing Meal
Osaka - Sponsored -
8
Mt. Fuji Hike 2025: New Safety Rules & Registration Guide
Shizuoka - Sponsored -
9
Sado Island Kodo Earth Celebration 2025: Music, Traditions, Taste Tour
Niigata -
10
I’m Donut?: Japan’s Viral Donut Sensation
Culture
-
1
Guide to Bringing Medicines Into Japan
Planning -
2
The Ultimate Guide to Thrifting in Tokyo
Shopping -
3
Sanja Matsuri
Tokyo -
4
Your Name: Real-Life Locations in Tokyo
Tokyo -
5
May Grand Sumo Tournament (Tokyo)
Tokyo -
6
Iwatayama Monkey Park
Kyoto -
7
Adachi Fireworks
Tokyo -
8
Daikoku Car Meet
Kanagawa -
9
Japanese Urban Legends
Culture -
10
Gion Matsuri
Kyoto