The great temple of Nanzen-ji was converted from a residence of the Emperor at the end of the 13th century. It was destroyed by fire during subsequent internal disturbances, but was rebuilt in the first part of the Edo Period. One of the best temples in the Northern Higashiyama district, Nanzen-ji Temple is a sprawling Zen paradise surrounded by lush green hills. In 1291 Kameyama transformed his private villa into a Zen temple. Most important is the The Suirokaku (Aqueduct) Within the Nanzen - ji property extends from Lake Biwa to Kyoto, called Biwa - ko Sosui. It was built in 1888 and the granite and red brick arches with the antique appearance induces to merge with the surrounding environment.