Jōshōkōji Temple

Overview

Jōshōkōji Temple is a Rinzai Zen temple of the Tenryū-ji school located in Keihoku Idocho, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto City. Its mountain name is Daio Myōzan, and its principal image is Shaka Nyorai (the historical Buddha). Its full name is Daio Myōzan Manju Jōshōkō Zenji. Known as a temple associated with Emperor Kōgon, it's a place steeped in history and nature, quietly nestled in the mountains. Emperor Kōgon became the first emperor of the Northern Court during the Nanboku-chō period. In 1352 (Kan'ō 3/Shōhei 7), he took Buddhist vows (became a monk) at the temporary palace of Emperor Go-Murakami of the Southern Court in Kamanari, Yamato Province, becoming a retired emperor (Hōō) and embracing Zen Buddhism. After returning to Kyoto, around 1363 (Teiji 2), he visited Yamanokuni Shō in Tango Province and entered Jōjō-ji Temple, an uninhabited Tendai sect temple, and refounded it, marking the beginning of Jōshōkōji Temple. Emperor Kōgon himself designed the garden, incorporating the surrounding scenery into the landscape. He named the mountain behind the temple Sarugaesho, the waterfall Hakugyoku-sen, and the entire mountain Manjūrin, designating ten scenic spots. The emperor passed away two years later and was buried there. Later, Emperor Go-Hanazono donated the Manjūrin mountain behind the temple grounds and 260 koku of salt fields, protecting the temple. However, it burned down during the war of 1579 (Tenshō 7) involving Akechi Mitsuhide, leading to a period of decline. During the Edo period, it was restored by Emperor Go-Mizunoo, and Tokugawa Hidetada granted 50 koku of rice fields in Ido Village as temple land. As of 1788 (Tenmei 8), it had seven subordinate temples. Jōshōkōji Temple is not only historically significant as the founding temple of Emperor Kōgon, but also captivating for its natural beauty nestled in the serene mountains. Visitors can enjoy the seasonal scenery, particularly the vibrant autumn foliage that paints the grounds in stunning colors. The garden, designed by Emperor Kōgon himself, is a pond garden, offering a tranquil space integrated with nature. Jōshōkōji Temple is recommended for those seeking a quiet place enveloped in history and nature, a perfect place to relax and spend some time.