妙心寺

Myōshin-ji (妙心寺, Myōshin-ji) is a large temple complex in Kyoto and the head temple of the Myōshin-ji branch of Rinzai Zen Buddhism. It is one of Japan’s most important Zen centers, with a network of about 3,400 affiliated temples, making it the largest Rinzai school. The temple was founded in the 14th century, during the Muromachi period. Over time it grew into a major monastic complex with numerous sub-temples and training institutions, and it remains an active center of Zen practice. Visitors encounter a large temple precinct with the Sanmon gate, main halls, and many sub-temples, including Reihōkan. Myōshin-ji is important as both a religious training base and a representative site of Japanese Zen temple culture.