Kyoto is full of incredible temples, many of which hold secrets waiting to be discovered. One of these hidden treasures is the dragon murals found in some of the city’s temples. Often found in quiet corners, these beautiful artworks are believed to be powerful guardians, representing protection, strength, and good fortune. In this blog, we’ll highlight where to discover these murals and the stories behind them.
The Dragon that Watches You at Tenryu-ji Temple
If you’re visiting Arashiyama, Tenryū-ji Temple is a must-see, especially for its stunning garden and its impressive dragon painting. Originally painted in the Meiji era, the dragon mural was replaced in 1997 by a new one after the original was damaged.
The painting covers 159 wooden panels and spans 9 meters (29.5 feet) in diameter. What makes it truly captivating is that the dragon seems to be watching you from every angle, no matter where you stand. If you plan to visit, make sure to check the schedule.
To reach Tenryū-ji Temple, take the JR Sagano Line and get off at Saga-Arashiyama Station. From there, it’s about a 13-minute walk to the temple.
The Twin Dragons of Kennin-ji Temple
Hidden at the end of Hanami-kōji street, Kennin-ji Temple is a quiet sanctuary with a stunning secret: its Twin Dragons mural. This massive painting, created to celebrate the temple’s 800th anniversary, stretches across the ceiling of the Hondō Hall, measuring an impressive 11.4 by 15.7 meters (37.4 by 51.5 feet). The piece uses traditional ink on thick paper and took two years to complete.
As you walk into the hall, you can’t help but be amazed by the size and the delicate details of the two dragons, their fierce presence seeming to protect the temple. Originally painted in Hokkaidō, the artwork was carefully moved to its current home in Kyoto. These dragons aren’t just beautiful—they represent the strength and spiritual protection that Kennin-ji has offered for centuries.
To get to Kennin-ji Temple from JR Kyoto Station, you can take either the 206 or 100 city bus. From Hankyu Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station, it’s about a 10-minute walk.
https://www.kenninji.jp/ (Japanese only)
The Shifting Dragon at Myoshin-ji Temple
Myōshin-ji Temple’s dragon mural can be found in the Dharma Hall, created by the Edo-period. This massive artwork took eight years to complete and stretches across 12 meters (39.37 feet). As you take in the painting, you’ll notice how the dragon seems to come alive through its powerful brushstrokes and vivid details.
Depending on where you stand, the dragon’s movement shifts, making it look like it’s either rising or descending. The use of shell powder and plant juices in the painting’s creation has helped it stay incredibly well-preserved over the years, keeping its vibrant colors intact without needing any restoration. It’s a truly dynamic and captivating piece that adds an extra layer of magic to your visit.
To get to Myoshin-ji Temple from JR Kyoto Station, hop on the local JR Sagano Line and get off at JR Hanazono Station. The temple gate is just a 5-minute walk to the northeast from there.
https://www.myoshinji.or.jp/english
The Crying Dragon of Shōkoku-ji Temple
Shōkoku-ji Temple’s Dharma Hall, the oldest of its kind still standing, is home to a remarkable ceiling painting of a coiled dragon. This artwork, painted during the hall’s reconstruction, captures a dragon in a coiled position, preparing to ascend to the heavens.
A unique feature of this hall is its famous “Crying Dragon”. When you clap your hands near the center, the sound echoes off the ceiling, creating a noise that is said to resemble a dragon’s cries. Though the Dharma Hall is typically closed to the public, it opens for special viewing in the spring and autumn. If you have the chance to visit, be sure to try clapping under the dragon and experience this magical effect for yourself.
To get to Shōkoku-ji Temple from JR Kyoto Station, take the subway Karasuma line to Imadegawa Station.
The Life of a Dragon at Ryōan-ji Temple
In the spring of 2023, Ryōan-ji Temple unveiled a breathtaking new masterpiece: a series of 9 dragons painted across 40 sliding doors by former Prime Minister Morihiro Hosokawa. This impressive work, which took nearly three years to complete, depicts the life journey of a dragon, from its youthful beginnings to its wise, aged form.
As you admire the panels, you’ll notice how each dragon seems to come to life, filled with intricate details and emotion. This breathtaking addition brings a fresh, dynamic element to the temple’s serene atmosphere. If you’re interested in seeing the dragons, be sure to check Ryōan-ji’s official website for information on when they are on display.
To visit Ryōan-ji Temple from JR Kyoto Station, take the 50 city bus and get off at the “Ritsumeikan Daigaku-mae” stop. From there, it’s about a 7-minute walk to the temple.
http://www.ryoanji.jp/top.html (Display information is only available in Japanese)
Finding More Dragon Paintings at Kyoto’s Temples
Kyoto City is home to a vast array of stunning dragon murals, far more than we have highlighted in this article. For those who want to learn more, be sure to check out the full list available in Japanese for an extensive guide to these captivating works of art throughout the city. Happy exploring!
Note: This article’s cover photo is the work of Teo Romera and is used under the following license.
