Lost in the heart of Kyoto, Shin-Hasedera Temple awaits. It is a serene escape from the city’s bustle. This temple offers a journey through history and spirituality. Shin-Hasedera Temple is Temple number five of the Saigoku Pilgrimage.
Founded by Fujiwara Takafusa, the temple has a rich history. Takafusa was a courtier who lived during the Heian period. Legend says Takafusa was traveling west when he saved a priest from a terrible storm. Later, his son, Fujiwara Yamakage, fell into the sea during a voyage. The same storm appeared and saved him.
Decades later, Yamakage took his wives and children to Kyushu. The second wife threw Yamakage’s son into the sea. Again, the storm appeared and saved the boy. Yamakage believed Kannon had sent the storm to save them. To show his gratitude, he created two Kannon statues. One he kept with him and the other he placed in his family temple.
Yamakage then made a larger Kannon statue like the one at Hase-dera Temple. He established Shin-Hasedera Temple in his residence at Yoshida. This act marked the beginning of Shin-Hasedera Temple.
During the Meiji era, Shin-Hasedera Temple fell into disrepair. It was then moved to its current location within Shinnyo-do Temple. Despite its relocation, the temple retains its spiritual significance.
The main hall of Shin-Hasedera Temple houses an eleven-faced Kannon. This principal image reflects the compassion of Kannon. It embodies the temple’s dedication to mercy.
Shin-Hasedera Temple is associated with the Saigoku Pilgrimage. This pilgrimage links 33 temples. Each temple is dedicated to Kannon. Shin-Hasedera Temple is the fifth stop on this spiritual journey. Pilgrims visit to pay homage to Kannon.
Visiting Shin-Hasedera Temple offers a tranquil experience. The temple’s grounds invite contemplation. The eleven-faced Kannon inspires reverence. The story of its founding provides insight into faith.
Shin-Hasedera Temple welcomes visitors to experience its beauty.