Shōren-in (Japanese: 青蓮院) is a Buddhist temple in Kyoto, Japan. Shoren-in temple is one of the five Monzeki (門跡) temples of the Tendai (天台) sect in Kyoto. Shōren-in is famous for its scenery in autumn, especially at night.
All tourists must follow the route designated by the temple, and need to go inside the main hall first.
Monzeki (門跡) were Japanese Buddhist priests of aristocratic or imperial lineage. The term was also applied to the temples in which they lived.
The garden is decorated by countless tiny LED bulbs, and looks like a starry sky.
After the Great Kyoto Fire of 1788, Shōren-in was used as a temporary imperial palace for Empress Go-Sakuramachi (櫻町). It was therefore also known as the Awata Palace (栗田御所).
There are many national treasures in the main hall of Shōren-in, but some of them are not allowed to take photos, just following the instructions.
