|
|
|
Kodai-ji Temple, Formally known as the Kodaijusho-zenji Temple, is located in the
Higashiyama mountains of Kyoto. It was established in 1605 by the noblewoman
Kita-no-Mandokoro in memory of her late husband, Toyotomi Hideyoshi
(1536-98). Kodai-ji Temple's construction was extensively financed by Tokugawa
Ieyasu, Hideyoshi's Chief Vassal and later Shogun of Japan; the result was a
temple renowned for its beautiful design and exquisite craftsmanship. In 1624
Sanko Joeki, Abbot of Kenninji Temple, was appointed founding priest, and
Kodai-ji Temple has remained one of Kenninji Temple;s largest and most
important sub-temples ever since.
Kodai-ji Temple was ravaged by a series of fires after 1789, and all that survive of
its original buildings are the Otama-ya, Kaisan-do, Kangetsu-dai, Kasa-tei, and
Shigure-tei etc. Fortunately these remain in an excellent state of preservation,
and have all been designated Important Cultural Properties by the Japanese
Government.
Kita-no-Mandokoro (known as Nene) was awarded the highest rank of nobility by
Emperor Goyozei 1588, and in 1603 was accorded the honorary name of
Kodai-in; it is from the latter the Kodai-ji Temple name derives. Following the
custom among noble ladies of her time, she became a Buddhist nun after the
death of her husband and adopted the religious name Kogestu-ni. She died at the
age of 76 on September 6, 1624.
Admission 600 Yen ($6.00)
Higashiyama mountains of Kyoto. It was established in 1605 by the noblewoman
Kita-no-Mandokoro in memory of her late husband, Toyotomi Hideyoshi
(1536-98). Kodai-ji Temple's construction was extensively financed by Tokugawa
Ieyasu, Hideyoshi's Chief Vassal and later Shogun of Japan; the result was a
temple renowned for its beautiful design and exquisite craftsmanship. In 1624
Sanko Joeki, Abbot of Kenninji Temple, was appointed founding priest, and
Kodai-ji Temple has remained one of Kenninji Temple;s largest and most
important sub-temples ever since.
Kodai-ji Temple was ravaged by a series of fires after 1789, and all that survive of
its original buildings are the Otama-ya, Kaisan-do, Kangetsu-dai, Kasa-tei, and
Shigure-tei etc. Fortunately these remain in an excellent state of preservation,
and have all been designated Important Cultural Properties by the Japanese
Government.
Kita-no-Mandokoro (known as Nene) was awarded the highest rank of nobility by
Emperor Goyozei 1588, and in 1603 was accorded the honorary name of
Kodai-in; it is from the latter the Kodai-ji Temple name derives. Following the
custom among noble ladies of her time, she became a Buddhist nun after the
death of her husband and adopted the religious name Kogestu-ni. She died at the
age of 76 on September 6, 1624.
Admission 600 Yen ($6.00)
How to get there?
From Kyoto Station take the RAKU 100 bus. Approximately 20 minutes. 1 way
and will cost 220 Yen ($2.20) or use the Kyoto Bus Pass. Get off at the Gion stop.
From Kyoto Station take the RAKU 100 bus. Approximately 20 minutes. 1 way
and will cost 220 Yen ($2.20) or use the Kyoto Bus Pass. Get off at the Gion stop.