Dec. 17, 2021 UPDATE
Mitera Sennyuji Temple
- 御寺 泉涌寺 -Traveler Friendly
There are English, Chinese, and Korean brochures at the entrance.
Information
Japanese, English, Chinese, and Korean
Languages spoken
Japanese only
Story & Recommendation
A temple tied to the Japanese imperial family
This temple is located at the base of Mt. Tsuki-no-wa yama, one stop away from JR Kyoto station. Sennyu-ji Temple is said to have been established in 856 according to its lore, but the founding date of the temple remains unclear. Supposedly the head monk, Gachirin-daishi Shunjyo officially founded the temple based on the deep knowledge of Sou in China, as he trained there. The temple is well-known to have ties to the imperial family as Emperor Go-toba, and other aristocrats helped build the temple and also several funeral ceremonies for successive emperors were held here around the Edo-period. Hence why they are enshrined at the Reimeni-den hall in the temple precinct. This is also the head temple of Unryu-in Temple, so please visit both!
1Highlight
Reimei-den hall
The Reimei-den hall was established to enshrine, successive emperors as of the 38th generation, Emperor Tenchi. It was rebuilt in 1882 after it had been burnt down. Since the materials of the interior have been gifted by the Emperors, pay careful attention to the designs
2Highlight
Shari-den
Shari-den is an extremely important property, as a tooth of the Buddha and the ashes of their bones are enshrined there. A powerful dragon is painted on the ceiling of this building, which is has been especially opened to the public for the first time in 12 years. Next time will be in 2024. Please be patient until then if you missed your opportunity to go!
3Good Experiences
Listen to the sound of the water at Sennyu-ji mizu-yakata
Sennyu-ji Temple was named for the fact that there was spring water in the precinct. The building that was established in 1668 has been protecting that water and it has continued to flow since then. Try to listen to the sound of the water.
4Good Experiences
Take a rest in the Gozasho Garden
Even though it is a mall garden, you can enjoy the seasonal view of the maples in autumn. As it is surrounded by the main buildings such as the Reimei-den, the view makes for a godly atmosphere.
