Myomanji temple
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TEL : 075-791-7171 Address : 91 Iwakura Hataedacho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto Access : Eizan Electric Railway Kino Station Station > 5 minutes walk Parking : There is a parking lot Hours : Opning 9:00 – Closing 16:30 (Last entry 16:00) Entrance fee : Grounds free / Paid area 800 yen |
About Myomanji Temple
Myomanji Temple is the head temple of the Kenpon Hokke sect. It was founded in 1389. At the time, it was located in the heart of Kyoto, but it was destroyed by fire during the war and relocated several times. Then, in 1968, to move away from the urbanized city, the temple relocated to its current location.
The Bell of Anchin and Kiyohime
This is the place associated with the legend of Kiyohime, who fell in love with the monk Anchin but was rejected, and then transformed into a giant snake to pursue him. The story takes place in Wakayama Prefecture, and the temple bell in which Anchin is said to have hidden was brought to this temple and has been preserved there ever since.
I was able to view this bell in the main hall. It was small, considering that Anchin supposedly hid inside it.
Japanese garden
The garden known as the “Snow Garden” is also famous. I visited in the summer, and the greenery looked beautiful against the blue sky.
In the room facing the garden, there were chairs, and paintings and calligraphy were on display.
Huge pagoda
A huge pagoda stood within the temple grounds.
A statue of Sakyamuni Buddha was enshrined on the first floor.
It is said that after paying your respects to this Buddha statue, it is good to circle the pagoda three times while praying.
Other Highlights
I had a beautiful view of Mount Hiei from in front of the main hall.
Cherry trees are planted on the temple grounds, and beautiful blossoms bloom in the spring.
