Yasaka-Koshindo temple (Kyoto) Colourful monkey dolls

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Yasaka-Koshindo

TEL :075-541-2565
Address :390 Kinencho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto
Access :JR Kyoto Station > (bus) > Yanagita bus stop

Introduction to Yasaka-Koshindo temple

Yasaka-Koshindo was built over 1000 years ago. It is the first place in Japan where the Koshin faith was practiced, and is considered one of the three Koshin temples in Japan. The current main hall was rebuilt in 1679.

What is Koshin?

Koshin is a Japanese date that occurs once every 60 days. It is said that on this day, three insects emerge from the person’s body while he is sleeping and tell the god about his misdeeds. For this reason, in the past there was a custom of staying up all night on Koushin day.

There are three monkey statues lined up in the main hall. Each covers their eyes, ears, and mouth. This means not to see, hear or say anything bad.

Because monkeys move around a lot, they are also said to be symbols of desire. For this reason, there was a custom of tying the hands and feet of monkey dolls. Nowadays, people write their wishes on colorful monkey dolls and tie them on them.

Many people come to pray, and the grounds are filled with monkey dolls.

There is also a statue of Pindola enshrined within the temple grounds. He was a disciple of Buddha and is said to have the power to cure illnesses. There were also many monkey dolls tied up here.