Shôren-in is a Tendai sect temple in the hills just north of the Gion District and Yasuka Jinja. Formerly as a branch temple of the famous Enryakuji on Mt. Hiei, Shôren-in is one of the five Monzeki temples in Kyoto. Temples that earn the title of Monzeki are known for their head priests being members of the Imperial Family. The first head priest was a monk by the name of Gyogen and was later succeeded by the seventh son of Emperor Toba, Prince Kakukaishin-no, who started the lineage of monks from the Imperial Family leading the temple.

For the casual: 6. For the educated: 5.

The connection between the Imperial Family and Shôren-in should be more than enough to indicate the level of care and beauty found within the temple. Most of the temple grounds are surrounded by gardens which can be accessed with a ticket from the front office. I apologize for not having any of my own photos of the temple so be sure look it up when you get the chance.