Imagine a vast temple complex unfolding before you. This is Myōshinji Temple. It is a renowned Zen Buddhist temple in northwestern Kyoto.
Myōshinji Temple is the headquarters of the Myōshinji school of the Rinzai sect. It is the largest temple complex in Kyoto. Founded in 1337 during the Kamakura period, Myōshinji Temple has a long and rich history. Emperor Hanazono invited the priest Kanzan Egen from Daitokuji Temple. Egen sought to create a place for Zen Buddhism practice.
Over the centuries, Myōshinji Temple expanded. It incorporated sub-temples, gardens, and cultural treasures. These sub-temples are called Tacchu. Many sub-temples have small gardens. The surrounding greenery makes you feel transported.
Many influential Zen masters have been connected to Myōshinji Temple. Renowned Zen monks like Daito Kokushi and Ikkyu Sojun left their mark here. The temple continues to be an important center for Zen training. It attracts practitioners from around the world.
Walking along the stone-paved path lined with sub-temples, you will reach the center of Myōshinji Temple. Here you can visit the Hatto, Kuri, and Daihojo buildings. The Sanmon Gate was rebuilt in 1599. It is a magnificent two-story gate lacquered vermilion. You can see the interior of Sanmon only on special opening days. Inside are enshrined Kannon Bosatsu and 16 arhats. The ceiling, walls, beams, and pillars are painted in extreme colors. The paintings of dragons and celestial maidens are impressive.
Let’s explore some notable buildings. The Hatto is the main hall. It hosts ceremonies, lectures, and Zen training. The Hatto hosts a famous ceiling painting of a dragon by Tan-yu Kano in the Edo Period. It is a central gathering place.
The Hojo is the abbot’s residence. It is a simple and elegant structure. It features tatami mat floors and a small Zen garden. The Butsuden is dedicated to housing Buddhist statues. It serves as a place of worship. The Sodo is the meditation hall. Monks gather here for zazen.
The Kuri serves as living quarters for resident monks and trainees. It includes dormitory-style rooms and communal spaces. The temple complex covers about 82 hectares.
Myōshinji hosts meditation retreats, lectures, and workshops. These provide opportunities to deepen your understanding of Zen.
Taizoin Temple is the most famous sub-temple. Its pond garden was constructed in the mid 1960s. It is considered one of the best gardens of the Showa Period. Its rock garden was designed in the 1400s by Kano Motonobu. The temple has a painting from the 1400s. It depicts a Buddhist parable. A man tries to catch a fish with a gourd.
Keishunin Temple has a number of gardens to walk through. There is an attractive tea room. It is a relaxing spot to enjoy the scenery.
Daishinin Temple is the smallest of the sub-temples. It has an attractive rock garden and a garden of peonies.
Myōshinji Temple suffered during the Ōnin War. It was rebuilt in 1477. The temple’s property expanded. Land was donated by Ninna-ji temple. Akechi Mitsuhide visited Myōshinji after betraying Oda Nobunaga. Mitsuhide’s uncle was a monk here.
Today, Myōshinji Temple continues its activities. It has established Zen training facilities and schools. It acts as the head temple of the largest branch of Rinzai Zen Buddhism.
As you leave Myōshinji Temple, reflect on the serenity. Remember the beauty of its gardens and the depth of its Zen heritage. It is truly a cultural and spiritual treasure in Kyoto.