Myoshinji
京都府
Rinzai Myoshinji-ha head temple with 46 sub-temples, converted from Emperor Hanazono's palace
Founded
1337
Type
Temple
Visited
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Access
5 min walk from JR Hanazono Station
1 Hanazono Myoshinji-cho, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto
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Overview
Head temple of the Rinzai Myoshinji-ha, one of Japan's largest Zen temple complexes. Founded in 1337 by converting the retired Emperor Hanazono's detached palace into a Zen temple, it encompasses 46 sub-temples. The Dharma Hall ceiling features a 'Cloud and Dragon' ceiling painting, and Japan's oldest temple bell is still rung here. Various sub-temple gardens such as Taizoin and Daihoin offer dist…
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Origins
Myoshinji was founded in 1337 when retired Emperor Hanazono converted his detached palace, known as Hagiwara-den, into a Zen temple. Kanzan Egen (Muso Daishi), a dharma heir in the lineage of Nanpo Jomin (Daio Kokushi), was invited to serve as the founding abbot. Shortly after its establishment, how…
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Pilgrimage Courses
Japan Top 100: Kyoto/Osaka/Hyogo
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Divine Benefits
Warding Off Evil
Purification
Rebirth in Pure Land
Averting disaster, directional protection, warding off epidemics. Central at Fudo, Kannon, and Gion-related sites.
Derived from the enshrined deity "釈迦如来"
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