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What is Shojuin?
It is said that Shoju-in Temple was originally built as a pagoda temple of the abandoned Ioukyo-ji Temple. In the Kamakura period (1185-1333), it welcomed a seated statue of Fudo Myoo, said to have been created by Kaikei, and was designated as a national important cultural property. In summer, wind chimes decorate the temple grounds, and the temple is known as ” Fu-ring-dera” (wind bell temple).
Basic Information
| Name | Shoju-in Temple |
| Benefit | To ward off bad luck |
| Hours of operation | 9:30-16:30 |
| Admission fee | 600 yen |
| Parking lot | Yes (free of charge, 60 spaces) |
| Location | 149 Kawakami, Okuyamada, Ujitawara-cho, Tsuduki-gun, Kyoto, 610-0211, Japan |
| TEL: 077-488-3601 | 077-488-3601 |
| Official website | http://shoujuin.boo.jp/ |
Features and Highlights
- Quiet environment away from the hustle and bustle of the city
- Seated statue of Fudo Myoo by Kaikei is in the museum’s collection.
- More than 2,000 wind chimes bring coolness at the “Fu-ring Festival
Seated statue of Fudo Myoo by Kaikei : This is a very rare and valuable statue of Myoo in the wrathful phase, which is different from the statue of Nyorai Buddha in the compassionate phase, which was Kaikei’s forte. The sharp glaring eyes are impressive.
Wind Bell Festival : From June 1 to September 18, over 2,000 wind bells fill the temple grounds. The view of the wind chimes ringing against the backdrop of tea fields and mountains is breathtaking.
Inome window and ceiling painting: The Kyakuden has a heart-shaped “inome window ” that is meant to ward off evil and invite good fortune. The ceiling is decorated with 160 ceiling paintings depicting flowers and landscapes.
Event Information
Fu-ring Festival
A summer tradition, Shojuin, a wind-bell temple in Kyoto, has more than 2,000 wind-bells set up on its grounds, offering a spectacular view.
The highlight of the festival is Shojuin’s original hana-fu-ring alley, where the wind chimes echo along with the cool tea fields and mountains. These wind chimes are meant to ward off bad luck and are hung to receive blessings from the Kannon (Goddess of Mercy).
Known throughout Japan as the Fu-ring Temple, visitors can experience coolness through all five senses, including the appearance and sound of the wind chimes, the natural aroma, the taste of tea, and the experience of painting the wind chimes.
| Events | Wind Bell Festival |
| Place | Shojuin Temple |
| Schedule | June 1 – September 18 |
| Official site | Wind Bell Festival |
Access
- 10 minutes by cab from Keihan Bus “Ishinchu-mae” stop.
If you use your own car, free parking is available.
Conclusion
Shoju-in Temple in Uji-Tawaracho, Kyoto, is a healing spot where visitors can feel in harmony with nature. Refresh your mind and body with precious Buddhist statues by Kaikei, a fantastic wind bell festival, and a stroll through the temple grounds surrounded by tranquility and greenery.
