Eikando Temple
Eikando Temple (永観堂, Eikandō), formally known as Zenrinji (禅林寺), is the head temple of the Seizan branch of Japan’s Jōdo-shū (Pure Land) Buddhist sect. Located just north of Nanzenji in Kyoto’s eastern foothills, it is arguably the city’s most famous destination for viewing autumn colors. The grounds are home to approximately 3,000 Japanese maple trees which, in mid-to-late November, transform the temple into a fiery palette of reds and oranges. The temple’s history spans over 1,100 years, but it rose to prominence under the 7th head monk, Yōkan, who dedicated his life to caring for the poor and sick.
The temple is most famous for the Mikaeri Amida, a rare 12th-century statue of the Amida Buddha looking back over his left shoulder. According to legend, while Yōkan was performing a ritual in 1082, the statue stepped off the altar to walk with him. When Yōkan stopped in shock, the Buddha looked back and whispered, “Yōkan, you are slow.” This unique pose is interpreted as a symbol of the Buddha’s patience in waiting for those who are late to find the path to enlightenment. This precious statue is housed within the Amida Hall and remains the temple’s most revered spiritual treasure.
Architecturally, the temple is known for its “Garyuro” or Reclining Dragon Corridor, a winding wooden staircase that follows the natural curve of the hillside. At the top of the grounds stands the Tahoto Pagoda, which provides a sweeping view across Kyoto. Other notable structures include the Goe-dō, enshrining the founder Hōnen, and the central Hojo Pond. Like many Buddhist institutions, Eikando suffered during the early Meiji period’s “Haibutsu Kishaku” movement, which saw the destruction of Buddhist property in favor of Shinto. However, careful restoration has preserved its status as a pinnacle of Kyoto’s religious and natural beauty, particularly during its spectacular nighttime autumn illuminations.
| Visitor Information | |
|---|---|
| Address | 48 Eikando-cho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8445 (Google Maps) |
| Opening Hours | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Last entry 4:00 PM) Autumn Illumination: 5:30 PM – 9:00 PM (seasonal) |
| Price | Adults: ¥600 (Increases to ¥1,000 during the autumn season) |
| Website | Visit Website |
| Access | ||
|---|---|---|
| Station / Stop | Line / Bus | Access Details |
| Keage Station | Subway Tozai Line | A 15-minute walk north from the station |
| Nanzenji Eikando-michi | Kyoto City Bus (Line 5) | A 3-minute walk from the bus stop |