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What is Rokkakudo?
Rokkakudo is said to have been built by Prince Shotoku in the 2nd year of Emperor Yomei (587). When Prince Shotoku visited the Kyoto basin in search of lumber for the construction of Shitennoji Temple, his statue of Nyoirin Kannon became immobile and told him that he wanted to stay here to save people, so he built a hexagonal hall to enshrine it.
Basic Information
| Name | Rokkakudo |
| Benefit | Life extension, safe delivery, protection from evil |
| Hours of operation | 6:00-17:00 |
| Admission Fee | Free of charge |
| Parking lot | No parking |
| Location | 248 Donomae-cho, Rokkaku-dori Higashinotoin Nishiiru, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto, 604-8134, Japan |
| Phone: +81-(0)75-221-2686 | 075-221-2686 |
| Official website | http://www.ikenobo.jp/rokkakudo |
Features and Highlights
- There is the “navel stone” which is considered to be the center of Kyoto
- There is one of the most famous power spots in Japan, “Enmusubi no Yanagi” (Willow for Marriage).
- The birthplace of flower arrangement, and the headmaster of Ikenobo is the current headmaster of the temple.
Main hall and navel stone: The main hall is a hexagonal building said to have been built by Prince Shotoku. Inside, the main statue of Nyoirin Kannon (Goddess of Mercy) is enshrined, and is said to bring blessings such as healing illness and prolonging life. The “navel stone,” a stone with a round hole in front of the main hall, is said to represent the center of Kyoto, and legend has it that it was once moved to make way for the construction of Heian-kyo.
Willow for matchmaking: There is an anecdote that in the Heian period (794-1185), Emperor Saga was looking for a consort and was told in his dream to go to the willow at Rokkakudo, where he met a beautiful woman. Since then, it has been believed that if one makes a wish at the willow in Rokkakudo, he will be blessed with a good marriage, and the willow is still known as “the willow of marriage.
Birthplace of flower arrangement: Rokkakudo is considered to be the birthplace of flower arrangement. Today, the headmaster of the Iemoto Ikenobo school is the headmaster of the temple, and an ikebana museum is located on the grounds of the temple. Those interested in ikebana can view materials related to ikebana at the museum.
Event Information
Kannon Ko-en-nichi
Kannon Ko-en-nichi” is held at Rokkakudo on the 21st of every month.
On the Kannon Ko-en-nichi, special services are held and good luck charms for marriage are awarded.
How to access
- 5 minutes walk from ” Karasuma-Oike” station on the Kyoto Municipal Subway
- Approximately 7 minutes on foot from “Karasuma” station on the Hankyu Line
Summary
Rokkakudo, the navel of Kyoto and a power spot for marriage, is a place where you can experience history and culture, and obtain healing and peace of mind. Please visit when sightseeing in Kyoto. Experience the energy of the power spot while feeling the center of Kyoto at this ancient temple associated with Prince Shotoku.
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