A pot crown. Can you imagine? That’s the nickname given to Nisshin the priest who founded Honpo-ji temple. He was quite the rebellious figure. This wasn’t just any temple. Honpo-ji temple in Kyoto holds a special place in history.
Honpo-ji temple’s story begins in 1436. It was founded by Nisshin a Nichiren sect Buddhist priest. He clashed with the shogun. His temple was burned down. Nisshin faced brutal imprisonment. One torture involved a hot pot on his head. Hence the nickname.
Despite the hardship Nisshin survived. He outlived his tormentor. He was freed. The temple moved several times. It finally settled at its present location in 1587. A devastating fire in 1788 destroyed most structures. Only the Kyozo and Hoko survived. The temple was painstakingly rebuilt. The beautiful garden is the work of Koetsu Honami a renowned Kyoto gardener.
Honpo-ji temple has two sections. A free section features a recently renovated pagoda. Then there’s a paid section. This boasts a stunning garden and a museum. The garden features a unique pond. It’s surrounded by ten straight stones. Their exact meaning is somewhat mysterious. Three standing stones represent three Buddhas and a waterfall.
The museum’s highlight is a massive tapestry. It’s one of Kyoto’s three largest. Measuring 10 meters high and 6 meters wide it depicts Nirvana. This incredible work was completed in 1599. It’s usually shown as a copy. Only once a year is the original on display. Photography isn’t allowed inside the museum. However you’re free to take pictures of the beautiful grounds elsewhere.
Honpo-ji temple is more than just a place of worship. It’s a testament to resilience and faith. It’s a serene spot to contemplate history. It’s a place where stories of suffering and triumph intertwine. And yes a place where a priest was once known as “Nisshin with the pot crown”. This temple truly holds the essence of Kyoto’s rich history and spiritual heart. Remember its name Honpo-ji temple.