What stories does this ancient stone hold? This is the Shojiji Temple Stele. It marks a spot steeped in history and natural beauty. The Shojiji Temple is also known as Shōjiji.
The Shojiji Temple Stele stands as a silent witness. It has seen centuries of devotion and change. The temple, nestled in Kyoto’s Nishikyo district, is a Tendai sect temple. Its mountain name is Oshio. The temple’s principal image is Bhaisajyaguru.
Legend says the monk Saigyō became a priest here. Because of this many know the Shojiji Temple as the “Temple of the Flower”. This is because Saigyō supposedly planted the double cherry blossom, Saigyo Sakura.
Imagine the temple grounds awash in cherry blossoms. The Shojiji Temple Stele has stood as countless blooms have come and gone. People call it the Flower Temple because of the many cherry trees planted here.
The Shojiji Temple’s story goes back to 679 AD. The monk Gyōja founded it by order of Emperor Tenmu. Later, in 791 AD, the great teacher Saichō reconstructed the temple buildings. He carved the Yakushi Nyorai as the principal image.
Emperor Ninmyō ordered the construction of 49 temple buildings in 838 AD. However, fire destroyed most of the temple during the Onin War. Only the Niōmon gate remained.
In modern times, Shojiji Temple became separate from Ōharano Shrine. This happened during the separation of Shinto and Buddhism.
The Shojiji Temple Stele is a reminder of the past. The temple’s treasures include wooden statues of Yakushi Nyorai. One statue even contains a smaller image inside. A wooden statue of Kongōrikishi is also among the treasures. These are important cultural properties.
The Shojiji Temple Stele reminds us of Saigyō. He lived at the temple. Emperor Yōzei was born here. The monk En no Gyōja founded this place. Saichō restored it. Emperor Daigo gave it the name “Shojiji”.
Emperor Ichijo prayed here. The temple prospered under the patronage of the Ashikaga clan. Now, the Shojiji Temple Stele stands near the main hall. You can also see the Niōmon gate. A statue of Fudō-myōō is there too.
The Shojiji Temple Stele is close to Saigyō’s hermitage. This stele embodies the temple’s serene spirit.
Consider visiting during the cherry blossom season. You will see why people call it the Temple of Flowers. The Shojiji Temple Stele marks more than just a place. It marks a journey through time.