Eikando Zenrinji Temple
At the southern end of the Philosopher’s Path in Kyoto, just north of Nanzen-ji, you will find Zenrin-ji. Zenrin-ji was the name given to the temple at its founding in 863. It means “Temple in a calm grove,” but few people use the name any longer. In the 11th century it became known as Eikando (永観堂禅林寺) after a famous head priest named Eikan. Eikan is attributed with acquiring the unusual Amida Buddha statue in the main worship hall. The head is turned sideways, and the legend goes that originally the statue faced forward, but turned to speak to Eikan as he was walking by.
‘Light Up’ at Eikan-dō Zenrin-ji Temple, Kyoto
The temple complex consists of many wooden buildings connected by corridors. It is located at the base of a mountain and known for its autumn colors, though the gardens and buildings are beautiful throughout the year. Originally it was a villa of a court noble in the Heian Period, but was donated to become a Shingon Buddhist temple. In the 13th century it changed to the Jodo, or Pure Land, sect. There are many things for visitors to enjoy, from a small rock garden to a larger garden surrounding a pond to elegant fusuma, or sliding screen doors.
Eikan-dō Zenrin-ji Temple, Kyoto
Eikando is a 5-minute walks from the Nanzenji-Eikando-michi bus stop on line number 5 of the Kyoto City Bus. Regular hours are 9 am to 4 pm. Entry fees are 600 yen for adults or 400 yen for children 6 to 18 years of age. For more information the official English website is: http://www.eikando.or.jp/English/index_eng.htm
Every year Eikando has a special evening light display highlighting the autumn colors in the garden. In 2013, the dates will be from November 8 to December 5. Daytime visits are from 9 am to 4 pm and cost 1,000 yen for visitors 19 years and older. For children 6 to 18 years old, the entry fee is 600 yen. The night hours are from 5:30 to 8:30 pm and cost 600 for anyone over 13 years old. During the night viewing, many buildings and sections are closed for visitor safety in the dark.
Eikan-do Temple
Eikan-do Temple
Autumn Leaves and koi @ Eikando
Eikando
photos by:
Hyougushi &
np&djjewell,
KimonBerlin,
john weiss,
KimonBerlin,
Hyougushi,
Tamago Moffle
