A guide to the sights of Josho-ji Temple – Enjoy the atmosphere of Takagamine

常照寺

Zen kun
Josho-ji Temple, known as the favorite temple of Tayu Yoshino, who was once praised as one of the best geiko in Japan, is located in a peaceful area overlooking the three peaks of Takagamine.
Kyoto pronunciation
The vermilion-lacquered gate Yoshino Gate donated by Yoshino Tayu and the Ippo-an tea house with round windows that she favored are deeply related to Yoshino Tayu.

What is Josho-ji Temple?

Josho-ji Temple was founded by Hon’ami Koetsu, the founder of the Rimpa school, and Nichikan Shonin, the founder of the Nichiren school of Buddhism. Koetsu, a devoted follower of Nichiren Shoshu, received the land of Takagamine and moved there himself, establishing an artistic village called “Koetsu-mura” (Koetsu Village ). Josho-ji Temple used to serve as a school dormitory as “Takamine Danrin.

Basic Information

Name of temple Joushouji Temple
Hours of operation 8:30-17:00
Admission fee Adults 400 yen, elementary school students 200 yen
Parking lot No parking lot
Location 1, Takagamine Kitatakagamine-cho, Kita-ku, Kyoto, 603-8468, Japan
Phone: +81-(0)75-492-6775 075-492-6775
Official websitehttp://tsakae.justhpbs.jp/joshoji/toppage.html

Features and Highlights

  • Famous temple associated with Yoshino Tayu
  • Spectacular location with a view of Takagamine Sanzan (three peaks)
  • Seasonal flowers such as cherry blossoms and green maples
  • Yoshino Tea Ceremony” held on the first Sunday of every month

Yoshino Gate: A vermilion-lacquered gate donated by Tayu Yoshino. It is also called “Yoshinomon”.

Tomb of Yoshino Tayu: According to the will of Yoshino Tayu, he is buried at Josho-ji Temple. The tombstone is inscribed with a waka poem of condolence composed by his mistress, Shaoyasu Haiya.

Ippo-an: Yoshino Tayu’s favorite tea room with round windows. It is not open to the public, but is open to the public during events such as the Yoshino Tea Ceremony.

常照寺

Event Information

Yoshino Tayu Flower Memorial Service

Held every year on the second Sunday in April, this event is held in memory of Tayu Yoshino. Shimabara no Tayu parades along the approach to the shrine, and a Buddhist memorial service and dance dedication are held in the shrine grounds.

How to get there

To get to Josho-ji Temple, it is convenient to take a city bus from Kyoto Station.

  • From Kitaoji Station, take Kyoto City Bus No. 1 to Takagamine Genkoan-mae bus stop (about 18 minutes), then walk about 2 minutes.

Conclusion

Josho-ji Temple, which blends into the quiet atmosphere of Takagamine, is a spot where visitors can enjoy historical sites related to Yoshino Tayu and beautiful scenery. Events such as flower offerings are held here, and visitors can enjoy a stroll while immersing themselves in the history and culture of the temple. It is definitely worth a visit when sightseeing in Kyoto.

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