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What is Senbon Shakado?
Senbon Shakado was founded in the early Kamakura period (1185-1333) by Shonin Giku. It initially flourished as a sacred site for the practice of the three sects of Buddhism, but lost many of its halls due to the Onin War and other calamities. The only remaining main hall is the oldest Buddhist temple in Kyoto and is designated as a National Treasure, and it is a magnificent example of Zen Buddhism.
Basic Information
| Official Name | Daihoonji Temple |
| Common Name | Senbon Shakado |
| Benefit | Prevention of various illnesses, happiness and happiness |
| Hours of operation | 9:00-17:00 (16:30 for the main hall and Reihouden) |
| Admission | Precincts: Free Main hall and Reihouden: Adults 600 yen, High school and university students 500 yen, Elementary and junior high school students 400 yen |
| Parking lot | No parking lot |
| Location of the temple | 1034 Mizomae-cho, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto 602-8319 |
| Phone: 075-461-5973 | 075-461-5973 |
Features and Highlights
- National treasure main hall built in the 13th century
- A treasure trove of important cultural assets, including a standing statue of the ten great disciples by Kaikei
- Various annual events such as “Agamezakura” cherry blossom viewing in spring and “Daikon-no-yaki” radish burning in winter
The Buddhist statues adorning the main hall are a sight to behold. The main statue, a seated Shakyamuni Buddha, is said to be from the time of the temple’s construction and was made by Gyokai. The standing wooden statues of the ten great disciples by Kaikei are famous for their exquisite beauty of form. In the Reihouden Hall, there are many splendid Buddhist statues on display, including the Rokkannon Bosatsu statue by Jokei, a standing bronze statue of the Buddha Shakyamuni, and a standing statue of the Thousand-Armed Kannon. A statue of Okame, or “the turtle, ” stands quietly in the precincts of the temple. Okame ” is the wife of a master carpenter, and is believed to be a goddess who brings good fortune, in honor of the story of her efforts in the construction of the main hall. In front of the main hall, beautiful weeping cherry trees called ” Amezakura” are in full bloom, creating a springtime atmosphere.
Event Information
Daikon (Japanese radish) Bonfire
On December 7-8 each year, the “D aikon Bonfire” is held. This event is to cook up daikon (Japanese radish) to be eaten on New Year’s Eve and to pray for protection against various illnesses. The precincts of the shrine are lit by bonfires, and daikon (radish) and amazake (sweet sake) are served, creating a heartwarming scene.
How to get there
- To get to Senbon Shakado, take city bus No. 50 from JR Kyoto Station, get off at “Kamishichiken” bus stop, and walk about 3 minutes.
Conclusion
Senbon Shakado, the oldest Zen temple in Kyoto, is a fascinating sightseeing spot where you can enjoy historical buildings, valuable Buddhist statues, and a variety of annual events. Please visit and experience its charms when you travel to Kyoto. We hope you will spend a memorable time in this place where history and beauty are in harmony.
