🗺️ Genkoan

In the year 1346, the temple was founded by the second generation of the Rinzai school, Master Chōō, and was converted to a Sōtō temple in 1694. Its official name is Eagle Peak Mountain Hōshurin Genkōan, with the main deity being Shakyamuni Buddha, flanked by the revered figures Ananda and Kasyapa. The ceiling of the main hall is made from the remains of Fushimi Castle, known by the nickname "Blood Ceiling." During the Battle of Fushimi Castle in 1600, loyal retainers of Tokugawa Ieyasu, led by Torii Mototada, were besieged by Ishida Mitsunari's army, resulting in the deaths of 1,800 men, with over 380 others committing suicide. The bloodstains that remain on the Blood Ceiling are said to be the remnants of that tragic event. The views from the round and square windows in the Genkōan main hall are quite famous. The round window, symbolizing Zen and enlightenment, is called the "Window of Sudden Awakening," representing the vast universe. It is said that by quietly gazing at the scenery from this window while facing oneself, one can achieve sudden understanding of the world. The square window, known as the "Window of Confusion," represents the sufferings of life, including birth, aging, illness, and death. The garden outside reflects the beautiful scenery of the four seasons, showcasing the fresh greenery of summer, the autumn leaves, and the winter snow.

Founded in 1346, this is a famous temple of the Sōtō school of Zen Buddhism. The blood-stained ceiling in the main hall is a remnant of Fushimi Castle. The view from the round and square windows of the main hall is definitely worth seeing. It is a well-known spot for viewing autumn leaves in Kyoto. Please bring your own shoe bags when visiting.