| The
area of Kyoto known as Nanzenji has the honor of being home to the famous
Zen temple that gives it its name, as well as to the graceful brick aqueducts
that carry water from Lake Biwa into the city. Before it was designated
a temple in 1291, Nanzenji had been the site of the villa of the retired
emperor Kameyama (1249?1304). Nestled in the shade of Hidashi-yama (the
Eastern Hills), the temple and its environs are lush with greenery, private
estates and several notable gardens, of which Murin'an is one?a place
of politics past and gracious early-twentieth-century living. And tucked
into the hills behind the Nanzenji temple complex is one of Kyoto's most
charming shrines, Himukai Daijingu.
Situated back against the mountains is the Nanzenji Hojo,
or Abbot's Quarters [Open
8 to 4:30. Admission \350. Tel. 771-0365].
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