Nanzen-ji is a Zen Buddhist temple built in 1291. It's a huge complex with lots of different buildings and gardens to explore. The most famous part of the temple is the Sanmon Gate, which is one of the largest wooden gates in Japan. However, not many people know that you can actually go inside the temple, probably because the entrance for visitors is all the way at the back of the complex.

After you enter the building and pay the admission fee, the main route goes to the left. However, there is a room to the right with a view of a small waterfall where you can drink matcha tea with a traditional Japanese dessert. I highly recommend it, especially if you like matcha tea (or would like to try it for the first time).

For some reason, the entrance to the matcha room was closed (as were all of its signs) when I was there last time. However, I simply asked if I could go inside and order the matcha set, and the lady at the ticket booth guided me inside. So, if it looks like the room is closed during your visit, definitely ask if it is available.

Visiting Nanzen-ji is especially memorable in the fall when the leaves change color, but it is a great place to visit year-round as well.