The grounds are large, and there are more than 10 buildings designated as important cultural properties, such as the dharma hall, Buddhist temple, and imperial messenger gate.

Of the approximately 5,650 Rinzai temples in Japan, approximately 3,350 belong to the Myoshinji sect. Many sub-temples stand side by side around the central temple complex, including the Sanmon gate, Buddhist hall, and Hatto, which were rebuilt in the early modern period, forming a large temple complex. Because it occupies 12 towns in the northwest of Heian-kyo and has a lot of nature, it is affectionately called the West Imperial Palace by the people of Kyoto.

Myoshinji was founded by Emperor Hanazono in the Muromachi period. The founder, Kanzan Egen, was a high priest of the Rinzai sect of Buddhism and produced many famous monks. Many sub-temples were built during the Edo period, and Myoshinji reached its peak of prosperity.