Hogonin Temple was built in 1461 during the Muromachi Period (1336-1573) with
the resources of Yoriyuki Hosokawa, a feudal lord in the Shogun’s administration.
The garden here—named Shishiku—is famous. Its name means “A sermon delivered by
Buddha.” The gardens were designed by a Zen monk and include gigantic rocks and
beautiful maple trees.
The main temple was lost for a long time but rebuilding finished in autumn 2008.
It will have partition paintings by the artist Noriko Tamura and a special viewing
will be held in three rooms in the Main Hall. The Hogonin has artwork of the 33-body
Kannon Bodhisattva who transforms herself into 33 different individuals in order
to help people; you can also see images of the Buddha’s homeland of India in the
background.
SPECIAL OPENINGS
Hogonin Temple
The temple’s main hall is rebuilt in fall, 2008.
On that occasion, new door murals were illustrated and will be opened to the public. Female painter Tamura Noriko created this oil piece, entitled “Fugasansansansan Jizai”. The color red, for which her paintings are famous, is particularly beautiful. Its background evokes the origin of Buddhism, India.
The Shishiku Garden has large rocks, including the “Shishiiwa”, which is so named for its lion-like shape. The garden is also dotted with many Japanese maple trees, and is a beautiful place well-suited to walks.
Address : 36, Saga Tenryuji Susukinobaba-cho, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, 616-8385
Access : Keifuku Rlwy: Arashiyama -walk 3 min; Hankyu Rlwy: Arashiyama -walk 15 min; City Bus: Randen Tenryujimae -walk 1 min
Time of opening to the public : 10:00 - 16:00
Admission fees : 600 yen.
Period of opening to the public : January 10 - March 18, 2009.
*May be closed for Buddhist service without notice.
