Hidden away in the serene hills of eastern Kyoto, a temple waits to reveal its secrets. This is the Yanagidani Kannon, also known as Yokokuji Temple, a place of beauty and tranquility, with a history dating back to the early Heian period in 806. The temple was founded by Enchin, the very same monk who established the famous Kiyomizu-dera Temple, and was built to enshrine the Juichimen Senju Kannon Bosatsu, the Thousand-Armed Goddess of Mercy, a powerful Buddhist deity. Legend has it that Enchin received a divine vision in his dreams, guiding him to this sacred site.
The temple is known as Yanagidani Kannon because “Yanagi” means willow in Japanese. It’s a fitting name, as willow trees gracefully drape over the temple’s grounds, adding to its serene atmosphere. The temple is also well-known for its “flower chozubachi” – the beautiful water basin adorned with seasonal flowers, especially stunning during the summer hydrangea season. You can even walk a path lined with hydrangeas, known as the “Hydrangea Corridor”. The temple itself, with its intricate network of prayer halls, feels wonderfully labyrinthine. You step into the temple through a covered staircase, a path that climbs the hillside and leads you deeper into this world of faith.
The temple has long been revered for its healing powers, especially for those with eye ailments. Indeed, throughout its history, it has been a place of prayer for the Imperial family and those seeking relief from eye disease. Today, the temple is a popular spot to reconnect with nature and indulge in the serene atmosphere of its gardens, as well as to experience the unique beauty of the “flower chozubachi.”
If you visit the temple, you can also find the Kamishoin, a designated study room for elites during the Meiji era, which is now open to the public. Beyond the Kamishoin, lies the Jodoen garden, a picturesque spot that’s designated by Kyoto Prefecture. The garden is a feast for the eyes, showcasing large boulders that represent the thirteen forms of the Buddha. The garden is also known for its breathtaking views from different perspectives, so make sure to explore and find your own favorite view.
Yanagidani Kannon is a hidden gem, a place of beauty, serenity, and healing powers, waiting to be discovered.