“Do not fail to include Jizo-in’s wonderful landscape in your Western Kyoto itinerary” advises one travel guide. Jizo-in Temple is not just another stop. It is a journey into serenity. Far from Kyoto’s bustling heart Jizo-in offers a tranquil escape. This “Bamboo Temple” is a hidden gem in the Arashiyama area.
Jizo-in Temple’s story began in 1367. Hosokawa Yoriyuki founded it. He was a samurai and ally of shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu. The temple belongs to the Buddhist Rinzai sect. Its Japanese garden was designed by Sokyo Zenji. The garden is designed to represent Buddha’s sixteen disciples.
Like much of Kyoto Jizo-in suffered during the Onin civil war. Fires destroyed it in the 15th century. It was rebuilt over a century later.
Jizo-in Temple bears the name of Jizo. In Japanese culture Jizo protects the weak. He guides stillborn children and travelers. Surprisingly only a few Jizo statues stand here. The atmosphere is Jizo-in’s true charm. It is both spectacular and sober.
The main gate opens onto a bamboo grove. The wind whispers through the stalks. This leads to Hondo the main pavilion. A gate stands to the side. Photography is prohibited beyond this point. Here lies Jizo-in’s beauty. A traditional house offers views of a Zen garden.
Despite its small size Jizo-in’s entrance fee is relatively high. But it includes a wonderful landscape. You can enjoy a visit without crowds. Let us hope Jizo-in’s quietness can be preserved. Jizo-in is a small Buddhist temple. It sits at the edge of Arashiyama. It is not far from Saiho-ji the Moss Temple. The main gate opens to a bamboo forest. Two pavilions display refined simplicity. A lovely serene Japanese garden completes the scene.
Jizo-in may be unknown to many travelers. It is only a 10-minute walk from Saiho-ji Temple. This temple is a famous representative of the Sagano area. It is also a UNESCO site. Jizo-in is secluded in a remote residential area. This discreet “Bamboo Temple” complements the Moss Temple perfectly.