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Genko-an Temple

A historic temple with many attractions including a garden view from the windows and a blood-stained ceiling.

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Head Editor : Genko-an Temple

Founded in 1346 by the second head priest of Rinzai Sect Daitoku-ji, Tetto Giko, Genko-an Temple was reestablished as part of the Soto Sect in 1694. Its formal name is Yohozan Hojurin Genko-an. The main deities here are Shakyamuni Buddha of the Avatamsaka Sutra, flanked by Anan zunzhe and Kasho-Sonja.

The temple's main hall features a blood-stained ceiling, a memorial of the remnants from Fushimi Castle. In the 1600 Battle of Fushimi Castle, 1,800 soldiers loyal to Tokugawa Ieyasu perished under Ishida Mitsunari's forces, with over 380 committing suicide. The ceiling retains the bloodstains and footprints from this battle.

The temple is also renowned for its circular and square windows in the main hall. The circular window, symbolizing enlightenment in Zen, is known as the "Window of Enlightenment." It represents the universe and is said to offer a path to enlightenment when gazing through it. The square window, the "Window of Delusion," symbolizes the life cycle of humans, encompassing birth, aging, sickness, and death. The garden view from these windows beautifully frames each season, from summer greens to autumn foliage and winter snowscapes.

Highlights

  • Founded in 1346, this Soto Sect temple has a rich history.
  • Features a blood-stained ceiling, a remnant from Fushimi Castle.
  • The circular and square windows in the main hall are a must-see.
  • Famous for its stunning autumn foliage.
  • Visitors are advised to bring a shoe bag.

Photos

  • An ancient temple established about 670 years ago.

    An ancient temple established about 670 years ago.

  • The main hall's "Window of Enlightenment" and "Window of Delusion."

    The main hall's "Window of Enlightenment" and "Window of Delusion."

  • Beautiful in the lush greenery of spring.

    Beautiful in the lush greenery of spring.

  • A winter landscape blanketed in snow.

    A winter landscape blanketed in snow.

  • The blood-stained ceiling with preserved footprints.

    The blood-stained ceiling with preserved footprints.

Official FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.

Q

Do you have pamphlets in other languages? (If so, please also inform us of the supported languages)

A

English pamphlets available.

Q

Are temple seals available?

A

Yes. However, during November, paper temple seals are provided.

Q

Is there a parking area?

A

Yes, but personal vehicle use is prohibited in November, and taxis are only allowed for pick-up and drop-off.

Q

Are coin lockers available?

A

Not available.

Reviews

1
  • 秦晴

    源光庵的庭園是京都最美的風景之一哦推推推推

Details

Name in Japanese
源光庵
Postal Code
603-8468
Address
47 Takaminekitatakaminecho, Kita-ku, kyoto City, kyoto
Telephone
075-492-1858
Closed
Open every day
*Note: Closed all day or temporarily during temple events.
Business Hours
9:00am - 5:00pm(Admission allowed until 4:30pm)
Admission
400yen(500 yen in November)
Access
From Subway Kitaoji Station, ride the City Bus, get off at “Takagamine Genkoan-mae” Stop, and walk 1 min.
Credit Cards
Not accepted
Official Website
Official Website (English)