Myohoin Temple is a monzeki temple dating from the early Heian period. This temple has Sanjusangendo as its sub-temple, and together with Shorenin Temple and Sanzenin Temple, is known as one of the “Three Monzeki Temples of the Tendai Sect” and is a temple of great prestige.
The interior of the Myohoin building is usually closed to the public. But the precincts of the temple are freely accessible.
The treasury (Kuri) is a national treasure. Toyotomi Hideyoshi built it for a festival during the Momoyama period. It is currently under repair. So you cannot see it now.
Shinden is a very large building with a cypress bark roof. Inside is a Buddhist altar room containing the mortuary tablets of emperors and empresses from the Middle Ages onward.
The main hall enshrines Fugen Bosatsu (Fugen Bodhisattva), a Buddha riding on an elephant, as the principal deity.
The early Edo period (1603-1867) grand shoin (main drawing room) and grand entrance decorated with Kano School paintings are designated as Important Cultural Properties. In addition, the temple has many temple treasures. These include the “Letter to Hideyoshi, Vice King of India of Portugal” (National Treasure).
Model course to visit Myohoin
Myohoin is one of Kyoto Gokashitsu Monzeki temples. Gokashitsu Monzeki temples are prestigious temples among Tendai Sect temples.
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