Kennin-ji is a temple of the Zen sect, one of the main branches of Japanese Buddhism. Buddhism, founded approximately 2,500 years ago in India by Shakyamuni Buddha, teaches that the inherent suffering of life can be transcended through equanimity, wisdom, and compassion.

The Zen sect, dating back to sixth-century China, seeks the realization of this ideal through a strict training system stressing work and meditation. At present, there are three branches of Zen in Japan - the Rinzai Soutou and Oubaku schools. Kenninji belongs to the Rinzai tradition. The temple was founded in 1202 by the priest Yousai (1141-1215).

Yousai, the founder of Kenninji, was ordained at age fourteen and entered the major monastic center on Mt. Hiei to study under the Tendai tradition. He made the voyage to China twice during his lifetime, the first time to pursue Tendai studies and the second time with an intention to reach India. His voyage to India was unrealized because of unstable conditions in Central Asia at the time; however, he was able to come into contact with the Zen sect, which was at its height in China. Yousai is known for introducing the Zen sect and the tradition of drinking tea into Japan. He is recognized as the founder of the tea ceremony because of his efforts to encourage the cultivation and consumption of tea.

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