“Prime Minister’s Temple” some call it. This is because Shokoku-ji was built by the shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu. The name reflects his role as a leader. We stand before Shokoku-ji a temple with a rich history in Kyoto.
Shokoku-ji was founded in 1382. Ashikaga Yoshimitsu began its construction in 1383. The initial dedication took place in 1392. It became one of Kyoto’s five great Zen temples. Shokoku-ji held the second rank among these during the medieval period. For a short time in 1392 it was even considered first.
Like many of Kyoto’s treasures Shokoku-ji has been rebuilt several times due to fires. A major fire in 1788 destroyed almost all main buildings. Only the Dharma Hall and Imperial Gate remained.
Look at the Dharma Hall. Toyotomi Hideyori financed its reconstruction in 1605. It stands as the oldest building of its type in Japan. Ieyasu donated the Sanmon or Mountain Gate in 1609. Emperor Go-Mizunoo contributed an imperial palace building. It became the Kaisando or Founder’s Hall.
Notice the dragon painting on the Dharma Hall ceiling. Kanō Mitsunobu created it. The dragon symbolizes Buddhist teachings. Try clapping your hands. The sound echoes like thunder due to the domed ceiling.
Today Shokoku-ji serves as the headquarters for its branch of Rinzai Zen. It oversees over ninety affiliated temples. These include the famous Golden Pavilion and Silver Pavilion. Owning these temples makes Shokoku-ji one of the wealthiest in Kyoto.
Consider visiting the Jotenkaku Museum. It displays treasures from Shokoku-ji’s sub-temples including Ginkakuji and Kinkakuji. The museum’s tea ceremony room is called Muchu-an. It was built using timbers from Kinkakuji after a monk burned it down in 1950.
Shokoku-ji has twenty-one sub-temples. Zuiho-in is open to the public in November. It is worth seeing for its decorated doors and garden with ponds. Jisho-in is the grave guardian temple of Ashikaga Yoshimitsu.
Take a moment to appreciate the quiet oasis that is Shokoku-ji. It stands as a testament to Kyoto’s enduring cultural heritage. Shokoku-ji offers a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.