Myoho-in Temple in Kyoto

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Facts & Figures

Myoho-in is a Buddhist temple and belongs to the Tendai Sect. After entering the temple grounds through the huge gate you will see a building called Kuri (Priest´s Quarter). It is a large wooden structure hosting the kitchen and offices of the Myoho-in Monzeki temple and belongs to the list of National Treasures in Japan. The Japanese artwork on sliding doors is an amazing sight. The drawing styles are known as Dai-shoin and Dai-genkan. These styles were developed by the art school of Kano. Experience the Ultimate Japanese Hospitality at a Kyoto Ryokan.
 Find Your Perfect Ryokan Now > Unfortunately, most of the time the temple facilities and the famous garden are not open to the public. Interesting to know that in the past the head priests of Myoho-in were traditionally members of the Imperial family. The monks at Myoho-in are also responsible for the operations of Sanjusangen-do.

• Myoho-in Temple:
• Opening Hours - 9:00 am to 4:00 pm (most of the places are only open to the public in Spring and Autumn)
• Admission Fee - 800 yen (Adults)

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History

Myoho-in was established in 1158 as a Monzeki temple of the Tendai sect. The word Monzeki stands for Japanese Buddhist priests of imperial lineage. In 1595 famous daimyo Toyotomi Hideyoshi (1536 - 1598) constructed the priest´s quarter (Kuri) at the temple grounds. Myoho-in served also for a short period as the Imperial Palace after the original was destroyed by fire.

Sightseeing spots

Top:

Kuri - The priest´s quarter is a National Treasure of Japan and dates back to the Momoyama period in 1595.

OO-Genkan - This is the grand black and white entrance gate to the temple.

Festival & Events in Kyoto (dates can change without notice)

April

Miyako Odori (1st - 31st)
The traditional annual spring dance of the Kyoto district Gion Kobu performed by Geiko and Maiko is a must-see on your Kyoto visit. Don't miss the most popular dances the Miyako Odori "Cherry Blossom Dances" or "Dances of the Old Capital" at the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo Theater (located close to Gion Corner).

May

Aoi Matsuri (15th)
The highlight of this festival is a large parade from the Imperial Palace through the Shimogamo Shrine to the Kamigamo Shrine. More than 500 people wearing aristocratic costumes from the Heian Period (794 - 1185). The Aoi Matsuri belongs with the Gion Matsuri and Jidai Matsuri as the three most famous festivals in Kyoto.

June

Aoba Matsuri (Green Leaf Festival) at Chishaku-in (15th)
The festival is an ancient ritual of followers of the Shingon sect of Buddhism, which is called Yamabushi. They participate in a series of ceremonies like celebrating the birth of founder Kobo-Daishi (744 - 835).

July

Gion Matsuri (whole month)
The month of July is full of different events like the Yoiyama - Kyoto's Magical Night (locals in kimonos look at the giant Gion floats the day before the parade) or the famous Yamaboko Junko (float procession on the 17th of July).

October

Jidai Matsuri ("Festival of Ages") (22nd)
People celebrate with a large parade between Imperial Palace to Heian Shrine the anniversary of the foundation of Kyoto. App. 2000 participants wearing historical costumes from different time periods. Enjoy this great festival which lasts around 2 hours.