TOC
Sanjusangendo Temple (Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture)
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Sanjusangen-do (official name: Rengeo-in) is one of Kyoto's most representative temples, conveying the history of the Heian to Kamakura periods. The name comes from the number of spaces between the pillars in the main hall, which is "33 ken," and the hall is characterized by its long corridor, which is approximately 120 meters long. The main hall is lined with 1,001 "Thousand-Armed Kannon" statues (one seated statue of the principal image and 1,000 standing statues enshrined on either side), creating an overwhelming sense of majesty. In the past, it was also the site of events such as "Toshiya," a competition of archery skills between samurai and commoners.
Highlights
- 1001 Thousand-Armed Kannon Statues: The large seated Thousand-Armed Kannon statue in the center and 1000 standing Thousand-Armed Kannon statues lined up on either side. Each statue has a slightly different expression and hand shape, allowing you to see the detailed carvings up close.
- The scale of the main hall: The hall is an overwhelming length, stretching approximately 120 meters, and it offers a unique spatial experience that draws worshippers in a straight line.
- Statues of the Twenty-Eight Deities, Wind God and Thunder God, and others: the attendants who protect the principal image, as well as the various Buddhist statues and statues enshrined within the hall are also worth seeing.
- Historical background and architecture: Founded in the Heian period, the current building was rebuilt in the Kamakura period. It also houses many cultural assets from the Edo period onwards.
- Seasonal Appeal: The number of visitors increases during the autumn foliage season and the New Year holidays, making the temple grounds even more beautiful.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station (walking distance): About 15-20 minutes on foot from JR Kyoto Station, or by bus or on foot from Keihan Shichijo Station or Keihan Kiyomizu-Gojo Station. About 10-15 minutes on foot from JR Shichijo Station (depending on the route).
- Bus: Take a Kyoto City Bus (Route 100, Route 206, etc.) and get off at "Hakubutsukan Sanjusangendo-mae" or "Sanjusangendo-mae."
- Taxi: Approximately 5-10 minutes by taxi from Kyoto Station (depending on traffic).
- By car: As the surrounding area is a tourist destination, it can get crowded and parking is limited. We recommend using public transportation.
- Note: Routes, times and travel times are subject to change, so please check the latest traffic information and timetables before setting off.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Normal worship time: 30 to 60 minutes (if you want to take your time admiring the Buddha statues inside the hall, it is safe to allow 45 minutes to 1 hour).
- If you also want to visit nearby museums and temples: Half a day to a full day (more time is needed if you also want to visit the Kyoto National Museum, etc.).
Nearby spots
- Kyoto National Museum: Located right next to Sanjusangendo Temple, it has a systematic exhibition of Buddhist art and Japanese art.
- Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Sanneizaka, and Ninenzaka: A popular tourist route accessible by foot or bus, featuring historical streets and souvenir shops.
- Gion and Yasaka Shrine: Easy to get to by car or bus, recommended for strolling around the streets lined with maiko and evening twilight.
- Higashiyama Area Temples and Shrines: There are many historic sites that can be visited on foot or within a short distance, including Chion-in Temple, Shoren-in Temple, and Kennin-ji Temple.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Photography inside the hall: Photography is prohibited in most areas inside the main hall (where the Buddha statue is located). Please follow the signs and instructions of the staff regarding whether or not photography is permitted at the entrance or within the grounds.
- Crowds: It gets very crowded during the autumn foliage season, the New Year holidays, the spring holidays, and on weekends from morning to noon. If you want to enjoy the view in peace and quiet, we recommend going early in the morning on a weekday.
- Dress code and attitude: Temples are places of worship. Please be quiet, observe proper etiquette when offering incense and offering money, and be considerate of other worshippers (don't shout or run).
- Make sure you have enough time: The hall is long, so wear comfortable shoes. There are many attractions in the surrounding area, so be sure to check your time allocation before visiting.
- Opening/Closing Times and Admission Fee: Opening times and admission fees may change depending on the season and special exhibitions. Please check the official website or local information in advance for the latest information (Guideline: Admission fee for adults is approximately 600 yen, opening hours generally vary between 8:00 AM and 4:30 PM to 5:00 PM).
- Barrier-free access: Due to long corridors and steps, some areas are not completely barrier-free. If you require access, please inquire in advance.
(Note) Before visiting, please check the official website or local guides for the latest opening hours, admission fees, photography rules, and special opening information. We hope you enjoy your visit.
