Jizō-dō

“A bamboo temple?” someone whispered. Jizō-in, tucked away in the Arashiyama mountains west of Kyoto, is indeed sometimes called the “bamboo temple”. This nickname comes from the enchanting bamboo grove that surrounds it. Jizō-in may be less famous than its neighbor, the moss temple Saihō-ji, but it holds its own unique charm. Founded in 1367, Jizō-in reflects the turbulent history of Kyoto. Destroyed by fires during the Ōnin War, it was later rebuilt during the Edo period. The main hall of Jizō-in houses the Jizo Bosatsu. This reflects the temple’s name and its dedication to this protector of children. Look for the Kaifuku Inari Daimyojin Shrine to the right of the main hall. It’s said to bring good luck. Venture further into Jizō-in, past the Chu-mon, to discover the Hojo and the serene Karesansui garden. This dry landscape garden, known as the “16 Rakan’s Garden”, features intriguing stones thought to resemble Rakan figures. While the bamboo grove whispers tales of tranquility, the moss-covered grounds and the vibrant autumn foliage paint a picture of Jizō-in’s enduring beauty. It’s the perfect place to escape the crowds and find a moment of peace.