Unryuin, Sennyuji

Unryuin is a significant sub-temple of Sennyuji Temple, located in the eastern hills of Kyoto. Founded in 1372 by Emperor Go-Kogon, it has a rich history deeply intertwined with the imperial family. As a special head temple of the Shingon Sennyuji sect, Unryuin holds a prestigious status within Japanese Buddhism.

Temple’s official WEB site

Historical Significance of Unryuin

The temple’s main hall, Ryuge-den, was originally built in 1389 by Emperor Go-En’yu. This hall houses the temple’s principal object of worship, a triad of Yakushi (Medicine Buddha) statues, making Unryuin the 40th temple on the Saigoku Yakushi Pilgrimage route.

Imperial Connections

Unryuin’s strong ties to the imperial family are evident throughout its history. In the Edo period, Emperor Go-Mizunoo made significant contributions to the temple, donating over 100 items including sutra copying desks and Buddhist implements. These imperial sutra copying desks are still in use today, offering visitors a unique connection to Japan’s imperial past.

Architectural and Cultural Features

The temple complex includes several important structures:

• Ryuge-den (Main Hall): A designated Important Cultural Property, housing the principal Buddha statues.
• Reimei-den: Completed in the early Meiji period, this hall enshrines the spirit tablets of Emperor Go-Kogon and other Northern Court emperors.

Sutra Copying Tradition

Unryuin has a long-standing tradition as a sutra copying center. Since its founding, the temple has been dedicated to transmitting the merits of sutra copying. Annual sutra copying sessions are still held, with monks from Sennyu-ji and devotees from various sects participating in this practice. See here for Sutra Copying experience.

Visitor Experience

Visitors to Unryuin can partake in several unique experiences:

1. Sutra Copying: The temple offers sutra copying experiences, allowing visitors to use the historic desks donated by Emperor Go-Mizunoo.
2. Seasonal Events: Unryuin hosts special viewing events, particularly during spring. The “Spring Special Viewing and Evening Illumination” event showcases the temple’s beautiful gardens illuminated at night, creating a magical atmosphere.
3. Cultural Treasures: The temple houses important cultural artifacts, including a portrait of Emperor Go-En’yu painted by Tosa Mitsunobu, designated as an Important Cultural Property.

Visiting Information

Unryuin is open for visitors from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM), with an admission fee of 400 yen. The temple is closed on Wednesdays, except in November. Visitors are advised to respect the sacred nature of the site, removing hats inside buildings and refraining from photography inside the structures.

Unryuin offers a unique blend of imperial history, Buddhist tradition, and cultural preservation. Its serene environment, coupled with the opportunity to engage in ancient practices like sutra copying, makes it a compelling destination for those seeking a deeper understanding of Japanese culture and spirituality.

Nearby spots of Unryuin Temple

Visit Sennyuji Temple, just next to the Unryuin compound. Sennyuji Temple, known as “Mitera,” offers a tranquil retreat. Founded in the 9th century, this temple is a significant site for cultural heritage and historical art.

Sennyuji Temple