Injiji Temple (Senbon Enmado)

Injoji Temple, commonly known as Senbon Enmado, is a Koyasan Shingon Buddhist temple located in Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto. Founded in 1017 during the late Heian period, this temple boasts a long and rich history.

Kyoto City Official Tourist Information

The most distinctive feature of Senbon Enmado is its main deity, King Enma, the ruler of the underworld in Buddhist tradition. The 2.4-meter-tall statue of King Enma was created in 1488. The temple’s name, “Injo,” means to guide beings to the Pure Land. Unfortunately, no photo is allowed in the hall.

Situated at the entrance of Rendaino, once one of Kyoto’s three major burial grounds, the temple continues to be recognized as an important link between the afterlife and the present world. Every August, during the Obon festival, a ceremony called “Oshoryomukae” is held, with temple bells ringing throughout the day.

Among the cultural highlights of Senbon Enmado is a ten-tiered stone pagoda, designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. Built in 1386, it is said to be a memorial tower for Murasaki Shikibu, the author of “The Tale of Genji.”

The temple grounds also feature a rare cherry tree called “Fugen-zo Sakura,” known for its unique way of shedding entire flower heads.

The Senbon Enmado Dainembutsu Kyogen, held annually in May, is one of Kyoto’s three major Nembutsu Kyogen performances and is designated as an Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Kyoto City. This traditional event, once discontinued, was revived in 1975 and continues to be preserved today.

With its unique atmosphere and rich cultural heritage, Senbon Enmado offers an intriguing destination for tourists interested in traditional Japanese views on life and death, as well as Buddhist culture.

Nearby spots of Senbon Enmado

Funaoka Yama and its surrounding area have long been known as an important burial ground in Kyoto. Jobonrendaiji was also a part of funeral proceedings.

Funaoka Yama and Kenkun Jinja Shrine

Shakuzoji temple is widely known as “Kuginuki Jizo” (Nail-Pulling Jizo), and there’s an interesting story behind this name.

Shakuzoji Temple (Kuginuki Jizo)

Jobonrendaiji Temple was a central temple in Rendaino, one of Kyoto’s three major burial grounds.

Jobonrendaiji Temple