Here at Keishun-in Temple, history whispers through the stones. Keishun-in Temple is a sub-temple of Myoshin-ji. It offers a serene escape in Kyoto. This temple has a rich past and stunning gardens.
Founded in 1598, Keishun-in Temple began as Gisei-in Temple. Hidenori Tsuda established it. He was the second son of Nobutada Oda. Nobutada was the eldest son of Nobunaga Oda. The temple’s story then takes an interesting turn. After Hidenori’s death, Sadamasa Ishiko stepped in. He was from a powerful Mino Province clan. In 1632, he invited Keinan Shusen to repair the buildings. This was to honor the 50th anniversary of his father’s death. Ishiko renamed the temple Keishun-in. He used characters from his parents’ posthumous Buddhist names.
Look closely at the Hojo or Main Hall. It is listed as a Cultural Property by Kyoto Prefecture. This single-story building has a hip-and-gable pantile roof. It was constructed in 1631. Inside are sliding screen paintings by Sansetsu Kano. He was a disciple of Sanraku Kano. One notable piece is ‘Konpekimatsu Mikazuki-zu’. It was once part of a Buddhist altar. Later, it became a sliding screen painting.
The Kihaku-an Teahouse has its own secrets. Relocated from Nagahama-jo Castle, it came with the study in 1631. Sadamasa Ishiko was once lord of that castle. This small teahouse features a shingled gable roof. It is associated with the Yonen-ryu tea ceremony school. Tea ceremonies were discouraged at Myoshin-ji Temple. They were seen as a distraction from asceticism. However, this teahouse was hidden. It allowed for secret enjoyment of tea.
The garden is a nationally designated Place of Scenic Beauty and a Historic Site. It was created during the Edo period. There are four distinct gardens here at Keishun-in Temple.
First is Seijo-no-Niwa Garden. This courtyard garden sits to the north of the hojo. It features a dry waterfall. Large, unusual rocks from Kishu Province form the waterfall. Next is Wabi-no-Niwa Garden. This tea garden leads from the study to the Kihaku-an Teahouse. It is separated into inner and outer sections. A moss-covered stone wash basin is hidden here. Shii-no-Niwa Garden offers a tea garden style space. It is located on the eastern side of the hojo. Stepping stones extend from a baikenmon gate. Finally, there is Shinnyo-no-Niwa Garden. This garden lies on the southern side of the hojo. It showcases a variety of flowers. These include Satsuki azaleas, Kirishima azaleas, and Japanese andromedas.
Keishun-in is one of the few sub-temples of Myoshin-ji that is always open. Taizo-in is another one. The tearoom is not usually open. It opens only for special events.
Keishun-in Temple encapsulates the spirit of Zen. It blends history, art, and nature. Take a moment to reflect on the stories held within these walls. The legacy of Keishun-in Temple lives on.