Konkai-Komyoji temple
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TEL :075-771-2204 Address :121 Kurodanicho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto Access :JR Kyoto Station > (city bus) > Okazakimichi bus stop > 10 minutes walk Parking :There is a parking lot Entrance fee : free |
About Konkai-Komyoji temple
Konkai-Komyoji Temple is a head temple of the Jodo sect located in the northeastern part of Kyoto. This temple has served as the setting for two important historical events.
The first point is that Honen Shonin, the founder of the Jodo sect, built a hermitage on this site in 1175. For this reason, it is considered the first temple of the Jodo sect.
Another point is that the Shinsengumi was formed at this temple in 1863. During this period, society was in turmoil as the United States pressured Japan – which had long maintained a policy of national isolation – to open its doors to the outside world.
The Shinsengumi was formed at that time to maintain public order in Kyoto. The members appear in various historical films and dramas, and are very popular.
Photos and Reviews of Konkai-Komyoji Temple
After passing through the massive temple gate and climbing the stairs, the main hall stood right before me.
The Amida (Amitabha) Hall, located beside the main hall, was built in 1605 and is the oldest building at Konkai-komyoji Temple. A statue of Amitabha Buddha is enshrined inside.
The former sutra repository, built in 1689, is currently used as a columbarium.
The pine tree growing beside the main hall is said to be the one upon which Kumagai Naozane (1141-1207) hung his armor. He was a samurai hailed as the mightiest warrior in Japan, but he entered the priesthood and became a disciple of the Honen Shonin.
As I climbed the stairs on the east side of the main hall, I found a three-story pagoda.
The statue of Amida Buddha (Amitabha) Contemplating for Five Eons located beneath the stairs had a very unusual appearance. This depicts how the hair has grown long during an incredibly long period of meditation.
The pond where the lotus flowers bloom and the arched bridge were also impressive sights.
The purification font was decorated with many flowers. It has a bit of a playful touch.
There were shops on the temple grounds selling food and drinks.
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