Long ago, a kingdom fell. The Kudarao Shrine in Kyoto holds the echoes of that lost kingdom, Baekje. The shrine stands as a testament to the resilience of the Baekje people. They sought refuge in Japan after their kingdom’s fall in the 7th century. Kudarao Shrine honors their ancestors, particularly Zenko, a descendant of the Baekje royal line. Zenko, also known as Kudara no Konikishi, made significant contributions to Japan. He served as an official in the imperial court and even discovered gold in 749. This gold, a gift to the Emperor, earned Zenko a promotion and solidified the Baekje clan’s standing. He moved his family to Kyoto, where Kudarao Shrine and the Kudara-ji Temple were built. Over time, fires and misfortune struck. The shrine and temple fell into ruin. The powerful Kofuku-ji Temple later supported the shrine’s restoration. The current main hall is a relocated building. It was originally part of the Kasuga Taisha Shrine, further connecting Kudarao Shrine to Kyoto’s rich religious history. Kudarao Shrine enshrines the Kudara King and Gozu Tenno, a deity also associated with Kasuga Taisha. This intertwining of history and faith creates a captivating narrative. The shrine is a poignant reminder of a lost kingdom, the enduring spirit of its people, and their impact on Japanese culture.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to