Zuishin-in is a head temple of the Shingon Sect Zentokuji School located in Yamashina Ward, Kyoto City. It is closely associated with Ono no Komachi, a renowned beauty from the Heian period.
History of Zuishin-in Temple
Zuishin-in was founded in 991 but was destroyed during the Jokyu Disturbance (1221) and rebuilt in 1599. In 1229, it became a monzeki temple by imperial decree of Emperor Go-Horikawa, and members of noble families such as Ichijo, Nijo, and Kujo entered the priesthood here5.
Connection to Ono no Komachi
Zuishin-in was built on the site where Ono no Komachi is said to have spent her later years. The temple grounds contain many relics associated with her:
- Komachi Fumizuka: A five-tiered stupa where a thousand love letters to Ono no Komachi are said to be buried.
- Kewai no Ido: A well that Ono no Komachi allegedly used for her makeup.
- Fumbari Jizo: A Jizo statue where love letters can be directly attached.
Highlights
- Main Hall: The shinden-zukuri style main hall houses an Amida Nyorai statue and a Kongosatta statue by Kaikei.
- Drawing Room: Visitors can view fusuma paintings by the Kano school.
- Plum Garden: In March, the famous “Hanezu no Ume” plum garden opens to the public, and on the last Sunday of March, the “Hanezu Dance” is performed.
- Moss Garden: A beautiful moss garden extends from the heart-shaped pond south of the main hall to the drawing room.
- Important Cultural Properties: Many important cultural properties are preserved here, including the Nyoirin Kannon Bosatsu statue (principal object of worship) from the Kamakura period.
Experiences
Visitors can participate in copying Buddhist images (shabutsu) and sutras (shakyo) at Zuishin-in.
Access
From Kyoto Station, take the JR or subway and get off at Ono Station on the Tozai Line. The temple is a 5-minute walk from there.
Zuishin-in is a hidden gem in Kyoto where rich history, culture, and beautiful nature harmonize. It offers a captivating experience where visitors can enjoy traditional Japanese aesthetics along with the legend of Ono no Komachi.
Nearby spots of Zuishin-in Temple
A little further south on the Nara-kaido road that passes in front of this temple is Daigoji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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