The Sacred Site of Buddhism in Takamimine

Jōshō-ji Temple, located in the quiet residential area of Takamimine, is a temple that strongly retains the image of the prestigious Dainrin of the Nichiren sect. Its history can be traced back to 1616, in the early Edo period.

The Vow of Kōetsu and Kōsai

Honami Kōetsu, who ruled Kyoto, received the land of Takamimine and established the "Chinsho of the Lotus Sutra" here. The father and child invited the priest Niken of Jakushoin, who was spreading the influence of the time, and made a vow to establish the temple. In response to this, the priest Niken raised the signboard of "Jakkōzan Jōshō-ji" at the Chinsho.

One of the Six Dainrin of Kansai

Priest Niken established the school for monks, "Takamimine Dainrin," at Jōshō-ji Temple. This Dainrin was one of the prestigious institutions counted among the six Dainrin of Kansai, such as Kyuhoin Dainrin and Higashiyama Dainrin. It is said that there were more than 30 buildings in the precincts, including lecture halls, sutra repositories, and student dormitories, and that several hundred monks gathered there.

Connection with Yoshino Tayu

Jōshō-ji Temple has historical sites closely related to Tayu Yoshino Tayu. Within the precincts, there are the "Yoshino Gate" donated by Tayu, the grave of Tayu, and the "Hikyoku-zuka" (double grave) built by her husband Shōeki. In addition, the round window of the Yohaian, "Yoshino Window," is uniquely designed not to be filled with the full moon, symbolizing self-reflection and spiritual training.

Opening of Non-public Cultural Properties

Every spring, cultural properties that have long been closed to the public are open to the public. It is a precious opportunity to view secret Buddhist statues such as documents and woodblocks describing the rules of Dainrin at that time, as well as the images of Daikokuten and Myoken Bosatsu, along with meticulous explanations.

Jōshō-ji Temple is a hidden prestigious temple standing in the quiet back alleys of Kyoto. If you visit the historically rich precincts, you can feel the atmosphere of the former dojo for learning.