🗺️ Shōju-in (正壽院)

According to legend, Shōju-in was established in 1200 and is located in "Ujitawara," known as the birthplace of Kyoto green tea. It is a sub-temple of the Iiozan Myōkō-ji. The main deity enshrined here is the Eleven-faced Kannon, a secret Buddha that opens its doors only once every fifty years. Inside the temple, there is a seated statue of Fudō Myōō, created by the Kamakura period Buddhist master and artist Kaikei, which has been designated as an Important Cultural Property by the national government. Additionally, there are 160 ceiling paintings in the guest hall depicting flowers and Japanese landscapes, making it a place with many highlights worth seeing. From June to September, the temple hangs 2,000 wind chimes and holds the "Wind Chime Festival," bringing a sense of coolness to Kyoto, and is also known as "Kyoto's Wind Chime Temple." The wind chimes are adorned with floral designs and patterns representing the 47 prefectures, creating a visually pleasing sight. There is also a wind chime painting experience available. Moreover, Shōju-in regularly hosts various experiential activities. You can practice yoga while enjoying the garden view; learn about the meanings of natural stones and choose individual beads to create a unique original Buddhist prayer bead bracelet; or experience copying the Heart Sutra and painting a deity from either the Eleven-faced Kannon or Fudō Myōō. All experiences require an additional fee and prior reservation. Please note that reservations may not be accepted during certain periods, so it is advisable to check the official website in advance.

The temple, established about 800 years ago, is located in Ujitawara, famous as the origin of Kyoto green tea. The main deity is the secret Buddha Kannon with eleven faces, which is opened only once every fifty years. The seated statue of Fudo Myoo, crafted by the renowned Buddhist sculptor Kaikei, is designated as an important cultural property by the nation. From June to September, the "Furin Matsuri" (Wind Chime Festival) is held, featuring 2,000 wind chimes hung throughout the grounds. Various experiences such as wind chime painting, yoga, and the making of Buddhist bead bracelets can be enjoyed within the temple.