Local Secret · Higashiyama-Shichijo
Yogen-in Temple 養源院
A small temple behind Sanjusangendo with Tawaraya Sotatsu's painted doors and a 'blood ceiling' made from Fushimi Castle floorboards.
Hours10:00-15:00 (last entry 14:30)
ClosedIrregular opening days; check the temple's Instagram
PriceAdmission: ¥600
Getting thereShichijo Station (Keihan), about 10 min walk; city bus to Hakubutsukan Sanjusangendo-mae, 3 min walk
Time needed40 min
Best timeWeekdays
Address656 Sanjusangendo-mawari-cho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto 605-0941
Websiteyougenin.jp
About
Yogen-in was founded by Yodo-dono in memory of her father Azai Nagamasa and later rebuilt by her sister, the wife of shogun Tokugawa Hidetada. Its corridor ceilings reuse floorboards from Fushimi Castle, stained when defenders died there in 1600. The temple also has bold paintings of elephants and lions on cedar doors by Tawaraya Sotatsu. Visits are accompanied by an explanation from the temple staff.
Highlights
- 'Blood ceiling' from Fushimi Castle
- Sotatsu's painted elephants and lions
- Rooms and garden away from the crowds
Tips
- Opening days are irregular; check Instagram before going
- Photography inside is not permitted
Open in Google Maps · Info checked 2026-10-10
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