Sanjusangen-do Temple
Sanjusangendo, officially known as Rengeoin, is a Tendai Buddhist temple located in Kyoto. Rebuilt during the Kamakura period, this temple boasts a main hall that is approximately 120 meters long, making it one of the longest in Japan, and it has been designated a national treasure. The name "Sanjusangendo" refers to the 33 columns in the inner sanctum of the main hall, which is based on the 33 manifestations of Kannon, the Bodhisattva of compassion.
The main hall houses a seated statue of Senju Kannon, along with 1,001 standing statues of Senju Kannon. All of these are also designated as national treasures, and in 2018, statues that had been on loan to the National Museum were returned to the main hall. Additionally, the statues of the 28 Buddhas and those of the wind and thunder gods are recognized as masterpieces from the Kamakura period and are designated as national treasures.
Sanjusangendo is also known for its cultural events, particularly the "Otaimatsu Taikai" held in mid-January, which is very famous. This archery competition, which has continued since the Edo period, features new adults participating in traditional attire, and has become a widely cherished New Year tradition.
The temple grounds include a pond strolling garden established in 2021, the Nandaimon gate built during the Momoyama period, and the Taiko walls, all of which are designated important cultural properties. Thus, Sanjusangendo is loved by many as a treasure trove of history, culture, and art.
The main hall houses a seated statue of Senju Kannon, along with 1,001 standing statues of Senju Kannon. All of these are also designated as national treasures, and in 2018, statues that had been on loan to the National Museum were returned to the main hall. Additionally, the statues of the 28 Buddhas and those of the wind and thunder gods are recognized as masterpieces from the Kamakura period and are designated as national treasures.
Sanjusangendo is also known for its cultural events, particularly the "Otaimatsu Taikai" held in mid-January, which is very famous. This archery competition, which has continued since the Edo period, features new adults participating in traditional attire, and has become a widely cherished New Year tradition.
The temple grounds include a pond strolling garden established in 2021, the Nandaimon gate built during the Momoyama period, and the Taiko walls, all of which are designated important cultural properties. Thus, Sanjusangendo is loved by many as a treasure trove of history, culture, and art.
Basic Information
- Spot Name
- Sanjusangen-do Temple
- Location
- 〒605-0941 657 Sanjusangendo Mairi, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan
- Access
- Get off at the bus stop "Sanjuusangendo-mae."
From Kyoto Station, take city bus lines 100, 206, or 208 for about 10 minutes.
It is approximately a 7-minute walk from Exit 2 of Keihan Electric Railway's "Shichijo Station." - Parking
- Parking available (approximately 50 spaces)
- Business Hours
- Visiting Hours:
April 1 to November 15
8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
November 16 to March 31
9:00 AM to 4:00 PM - Regular Holiday
- Open daily.
- Fees
- General: 600 yen
Junior high and high school students: 400 yen
Elementary school students: 300 yen - Contact Information
- Phone Number： 075-561-0467
- Official Website
