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Tofuku-ji Temple
Tofukuji Temple is the oldest and largest cathedral in Japan. I am impressed by the picturesque view from Tsuten-kyo Bridge, which is a famous spot for the viewing of colorful autumn foliage. The bright red and yellow gradation leaves are very beautiful. It is a popular shooting spot in the temple.
You can also relax in Hojo Garden, which has a famous checkered pattern garden. It overlooks the artistic modern art garden.
History of Tofukuji Temple
It was erected in 1236 by Michiie Kujo, the Sessho, to enshrine the statue of Shaka Nyorai, which is about 15 meters long. The temple name TOFUKUJI was taken from Todaiji Temple and Kofukuji Temple in Nara. The magnificent cathedral was completed in 1255.
Enni Benen, a Zen priest who was awarded the kokushi name ‘Shoichi’ from Emperor Hanazono, was welcomed as the first priest in Tofuku-ji Temple.
Some buildings have been rebuilt due to repeated fires.
Tsuten-kyo Bridge, a superior view
It is the bridge over the valley that connects the main hall, Buddha Hall, to Kaisan-do Hall. It is also known for the magnificent autumn leaves, there are spectacular views of crimson on both sides of the bridge. You will be healed by the refreshing air during the fresh green season.
Kaisan-do Hall
It is an important cultural property. It enshrines Enni Benen, the kokushi. The two-story tower is called Denne-kaku and is said to be one of the “Kyoto’s Five Pavilion”. In front of Kaisan-do Hall, there is a famous garden in the middle of the Edo period.
Aizen-do Hall
A sitting statue of Aizen Myoo, made during the Kamakura period, is enshrined in the vermilion octagonal hall. It is said to give peace to all people. In particular, it is said that women are given good love and children.
Hojo Garden
You can see the modern and innovative garden “Hassou no Niwa” by Mirei Shigemori, a masterpiece gardener of the Showa era. The beauty of modern art is fused based on the style of the Kamakura period garden. The checkered geometric arrangement of stones and moss of the northern garden is particularly well-known. In addition, you can see a wonderful garden that expresses the rough sea with white sand.
Sanmon Gate
It is the oldest surviving Zen Buddhist temple Sanmon Gate in Japan with a height of about 22 meters. It was rebuilt by Yoshimochi Ashikaga in the early Muromachi period. The sitting statue of Shaka Nyorai and Sixteen Arhats are enshrined on the roof, and the ceiling and pillars are painted with colorful paintings, giving a spectacular view.
Access
It is a 10-minute walk from the city bus “Tofukuji Temple” bus stop.
Click here for shop information around Tofukuji Temple.
