Nanzen-ji is not itself considered one of the "five great Zen temples of Kyoto"; however, it does play an important role in the "Five Mountain System" which was modified from Chinese roots.
Deși Nanzen-ji nu face parte din „cinci mari temple Zen ale Kyoto”, el joacă un rol important în Go-Zan, sau „Sistemul celor Cinci Munți”, preluat din China.