Myokenji Temple and Its Attractions: A Journey to Kyoto’s First Buddhist Center for the Lotus Sutra

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Zen kun
Myokenji Temple, located in Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto, is the head temple of the Nichiren Sect with a history of over 700 years.
Kyoto pronunciation
Its magnificent gallery and beautiful gardens have attracted visitors.

What is Myokenji Temple?

Founded in 1321, Myokenji Temple was the first Buddhist center for the Lotus Sutra in Kyoto. Later, it was moved to its current location due to the urban planning of Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Myokenji prospered as a center of Nichiren Buddhism and received support from the Emperor.

Basic Information

Name Myokenji Temple
Benefit Fulfillment of wishes
Hours of operation Free in the precincts, 10:00-16:30 in the garden (reception closes at 16:00)
Admission fee Free in the temple grounds, 500 yen in the garden
Parking lot Available (parking fee required)
Address 514 Myokenji-mae-cho, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto, 602-0005, Japan
TEL: 075-414-0808 075-414-0808
Official websitehttps://www.shikaishodo-myokenji.org/

Features and Highlights

  • Cherry blossoms bloom in spring and autumn leaves color the grounds in fall.
  • The gardens are worth seeing, including“Korin Kyokusui no Niwa” (Garden of Korin Kyokusui ), “Shikai Shodou no Niwa” (Garden of Shikai Shodou), and “Hoitsu Kyokusui no Niwa” (Garden of Hoitsu Kyokusui ).
  • This is a historic temple where visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the teachings of Nichiren Shoshu.

Korin Kyokusui no Niwa (Garden of Korin Myokusui ); This garden was created based on the works of Korin Ogata. Cherry blossoms in spring and autumn leaves in fall are reflected on the water, creating an elegant atmosphere.

Shikai Shodou no Ni wa: In front of the Kyakuden, this garden is an atmospheric dry landscape garden that represents the historical figures who spread the Lotus Sutra.

Hoitsu Kyokusui no Niwa: A tsuboniwa garden made of moso bamboo, where visitors can enjoy the seasonal expressions of the bamboo.

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Event Information

Red Seal

Goshuin is a seal given by temples and shrines to commemorate visits, and Myokenji Temple has a special “Nami-yuri title” on it. In addition, Myokenji offers its own red seal book in three colors: vermilion, navy blue, and green.

Shukubo (lodging house)

Myokenji’s Shukubo offers an inconvenient environment that is different from ordinary lodging facilities, encouraging mental refreshment by providing an extraordinary experience. They are ideal for those who wish to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and calm their minds.

Shakyo

Shakyo is the act of copying sutras for a variety of purposes, including mental stability, the repose of the soul of the deceased, deepening one’s faith, and improving one’s penmanship. Myokenji Temple offers this experience.

How to access

  • Take the city bus to ” Horikawa Teranouchi” and walk about 7 minutes.
  • City Bus ” Teranouchi” alighting, 5 minutes on foot
  • Take Subway Karasuma Line, get off at Imadegawa Station, and walk 10 minutes.

Summary

Myokenji Temple in Kyoto is a temple that combines history, beauty, and spirituality. A visit during the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons is exceptionally beautiful. Please visit to enjoy the harmony of traditional Japanese culture and nature.