Founder’s Hall is what Kaisando translates to. Kaisando at Kennin-ji Temple is our next stop. Kennin-ji is Kyoto’s oldest Zen temple. It was founded in 1202. The temple complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Kaisando is an important building here. It holds many original artifacts.
Kaisando features a grand entrance gate. The royal enclosure has a massive stone gong. A large statue of the founder stands here too. Inside Kaisando, you’ll see a double-gable roof. Notice the red-lacquered pillars. The interior features painted gauze. This is similar to Byodoin Temple.
Around Kaisando are gorgeous gardens. These fill the inner courtyard. Bonsai plants are everywhere. You’ll see Zen rock gardens. An imposing sand garden is here too. The rock garden represents strength. The bonsai represent life’s great potential. New and old coexist peacefully here at Kaisando.
Tofukuji also has a Kaisando Hall. It serves as the Mausoleum for Enji Benen. He was the founder of the temple. This Kaisando hall is closed to the public. But you can still walk around. Admire the architecture and the garden.
Kodai-ji Temple also contains a Kaisando. It is designated as an important cultural property of Japan. The pond garden around Kaisando was designed by Kobori Enshu. He was a great garden designer.
Kaisando or Founder’s Hall is a temple structure. It is found in Japanese Buddhist monasteries. It can also be in other temples. Here, images of the founding abbot are kept. Other significant teachers are honored too. Buddha ancestors have a place here. A memorial slab is also present. This is called a Japanese ihai. Kaisando is sometimes called Patriarch Hall. It can also be called Reflection Hall. Memorial services happen yearly here. They are on the death anniversary of the founding abbot.
The largest Founder’s Hall in Japan is the Goei-do. It stands in front of the Higashi Hongwanji Temple in Kyoto. This is a head temple of the Jodo Shinshu sect of Buddhism.
Visiting Kaisando offers a glimpse into Zen Buddhism. It also highlights Japanese art and history. It’s a must-see for culture enthusiasts. Take a moment to appreciate the blend of nature and architecture. Remember the founders and teachers honored here at Kaisando.