宝泉寺

Could a ceiling whisper tales of bloodshed? Here at Hosen-in Temple, it does. Hosen-in Temple, nestled in the serene Ohara region of Kyoto, seems an unlikely keeper of such grim history. Yet, look up. Part of the temple’s ceiling is crafted from the blood-stained floorboards of Fushimi Castle. These boards bear silent witness to the seppuku of warriors loyal to Tokugawa Ieyasu in 1600. Hosen-in is known as one of Kyoto’s “Bloody Temples,” a poignant reminder of the violence that once stained this peaceful land. Hosen-in Temple itself was founded in the 11th century. It started as lodging for the monks of the larger Shorin-in Temple. It became a place of study for shomyo, Buddhist chanting introduced to Japan by the monk Ennin. But Hosen-in offers more than just a glimpse into the past. It boasts a stunning garden. A magnificent 700-year-old pine tree stands as a testament to the passage of time. Trimmed shrubs, moss-covered rocks, and a tranquil bamboo grove invite quiet reflection. In the lower garden, stone stepping stones and conical mounds of gravel add to the serene atmosphere. This garden is beautiful in every season. Picture it blanketed in snow in winter or ablaze with color in autumn. As you explore Hosen-in Temple, take a moment to appreciate the contrast. The serenity of the garden juxtaposes with the chilling whispers from the ceiling above. Savor the offered matcha tea while you ponder the beauty of the garden and the stories etched in the very structure of this unique temple. Hosen-in Temple is more than just a temple. It’s a living story, a testament to the beauty and the brutality of history, whispering secrets to those who listen closely.