Bishamon-do Temple

Overview

Bishamon-do Temple, located in Yamashina, offering panoramic views of Kyoto, is a Tendai sect temple with Bishamonten as its principal deity. Founded at the end of the Heian period, it integrated three temples associated with the Taira clan. Later, it was restored in the early Edo period by Tenkai, suggesting close ties to the powerful figures of the time due to Tenkai's proximity to Tokugawa Ieyasu. The main hall and Karamon gate, donated by the Tokugawa family, prominently feature the architectural style of Nikko Toshogu Shrine, showcasing vibrant colors and intricate ornamentation. These structures boast a unique beauty rarely seen in Kyoto's Buddhist temple architecture. The temple also houses numerous historical and artistic treasures, including Kodai Benzaiten, associated with the mother of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and a protective dragon painted on the ceiling of the 霊殿 (reiden - spirit hall) by Kano Nagashu (Eishuku) Shushin, an Edo-period painter. The cherry blossoms in spring, particularly the weeping cherry trees over 150 years old, beautifully adorn the grounds, delighting numerous visitors. Autumn's foliage is equally stunning, painting the temple grounds in a vibrant display of color. Bishamon-do Temple, revealing new discoveries with each visit, offers a captivating experience throughout the year. We highly recommend a visit.