Once known as Hachiokadera Temple Koryu-ji Temple stands before us. This Shingon temple whispers tales of Kyoto’s oldest temple. Founded in 603 by Hata no Kawakatsu Koryu-ji Temple holds a precious statue from Prince Shotoku.
The prince gifted a Buddha statue to Kawakatsu. He then built Hachioka-dera Temple now known as Koryu-ji Temple to enshrine it. This act established Koryu-ji Temple as the Hata clan’s temple.
Imagine Prince Shotoku asking his retainers. “Is there anyone who worships it?” Hata no Kawakatsu stepped forward. He received the statue establishing Koryu-ji Temple.
Originally located elsewhere Koryu-ji Temple moved to its present site in 794. This relocation happened when the capital shifted to Heian-kyo. Over time Koryu-ji Temple acquired several names. These include Uzumasadera Temple and Kadono-no-Hatadera Temple.
Koryu-ji Temple suffered destruction by fire more than once. Fires in 818 and 1150 ravaged the temple complex. Yet it was rebuilt showing resilience.
Look closely at the Miroku Bosatsu statues. Two reside within Koryu-ji Temple both designated national treasures. Hokan Miroku Bosatsu stands at 123 cm. He sits thoughtfully with his hand on his cheek. Naki Miroku Bosatsu is smaller at 90 cm. His somber expression and moist pupils give the appearance of crying.
Consider the treasures housed within Koryu-ji Temple. Keikyuin Hondo holds a statue of Prince Shotoku. The Kodo lecture hall rebuilt in 1165 represents Heian architecture. Kamiguoin Taishiden built in 1730 enshrines another statue of Prince Shotoku.
Every year on January 2nd Koryu-ji Temple celebrates Chona-hajime. Shrine carpenters pray to Prince Shotoku the God of Construction. They ask for a safe start to the year accompanied by Kyo-Kiyari songs.
On November 22nd Koryu-ji Temple holds Shotoku-taishi Ohitaki-sai. Gomagi wooden sticks inscribed with wishes burn. This ritual prays for wish fulfillment. The statues of Prince Shotoku and Yakushi Nyorai are opened to the public during this event.
Note the Hokan Miroku a wooden image of Bodhisattva. It sits contemplatively in the half-lotus position. This is a rare treasure preserved at Koryu-ji Temple.
Successive shoguns granted land to Koryu-ji Temple during the Edo period. Even after the Meiji Restoration Koryu-ji Temple continued. Osake Shrine its guardian shrine was moved to its present location.
Koryu-ji Temple stands as a testament to faith. It has survived fires relocations and changes in power. Its history interwoven with Prince Shotoku and the Hata clan. This ancient temple offers a glimpse into Kyoto’s past. As we conclude our visit take a moment to reflect on the enduring legacy of Koryu-ji Temple.