Basic Information
Description
A Shingon Gochi school temple. The principal image is Kokuzo Bosatsu (Akashagarbha Bodhisattva).
The multi-story pagoda visible from the Togetsukyo Bridge in Arashiyama is its landmark. Perched on a small hill, it's a hidden spot with panoramic views of Sagano. Founded in 713 by Gyoki, the temple appears in The Pillow Book, Ryojin Hisho, and Konjaku Monogatari, and is also famous for the Jusan Mairi coming-of-age ceremony. "Kokuzo" means "containing all things in the universe."
Originally called Fujii-dera, it was renamed Horin-ji around 800 when Dosho practiced the Kokuzo Gumonji-ho here on Kukai's instructions. On the final day of his practice, Dosho perceived Kokuzo in the sky and carved the deity from a single block of wood. The statue was consecrated by Kukai himself at Jingo-ji. Later, Kuya built the Jogyo-do hall, but much was lost in the Onin War. In 1597, Emperor Go-Yozei issued a decree for the temple's restoration, and with the patronage of Maeda Toshiie and others, the buildings were rebuilt.
A hidden gem with panoramic views of Sagano — and free admission. Even during peak tourist season, there are hardly any people here.
Up the lovely stone steps, you'll find the Denden-gu shrine, dedicated to Myojo Tenshi as a manifestation of the main deity. It's worshipped as the patron of electricity, electronics, and information technology, and draws devotees from the electrical and telecommunications industries. Check out the unique charms on our Kyoto omamori page.