Kyoto’s shrines and temples have statues and paintings of various birds, including dove, cranes, and sparrows. These are either related to gods or Buddhas or based on legends.
Here we will introduce recommended shrines and temples for each type of bird.
Bird shrines and temples in Kyoto
Dove : Kadode-Hachimangu Shrine
This divine being has doves as his companions. There are statues of doves on the purification fountain and roof tiles in the shrine grounds.
Doves are also said to be guide birds. It is said that Minamoto no Yoshitsune prayed for a safe journey at this shrine.
Crane : Toyokuni-jinja Shrine
The Karamon Gate (a national treasure) located in front of the main hall has a carving of a crane. This was carved by the famous master craftsman Hidari Jingoro.
It was believed that once completed, a soul would reside in it and fly away. It is said that for this reason the crane’s eyes were not carved.
Sparrow : Higashi-Honganji temple
Higashi-Honganji Temple is the head temple of the Otani sect of Shinshu Buddhism and is located very close to Kyoto Station.
The Daishinden Hall features sliding screen paintings by Takeuchi Seiho, depicting many adorable sparrows. It is usually closed to the public, but there are times when it is open to the public during special periods or events.
Higashi-Honganji temple (Kyoto) Huge wooden buildings
Kite : Otoyo-jinja Shrine
There is a statue of a kite in front of the Atago Shrine within the shrine grounds. Kite is a bird of prey that flies slowly in circles. The bird is enshrined as a guardian of the mountain from the sky.
Atago Shrine is said to have the power to prevent fires.
