Hōrinji Temple
temple
法輪寺
Hōrinji Temple is thought to have been built in 713 by the monk Gyōki (668–749) at the order of Empress Genmei (661–721).
Horinji Temple in Arashiyama was founded in 713 and is best known as the temple of Kokuzo Bodhisattva, enshrined here since 829 by the monk Dosho after completing a 100-day mantra practice on the site. Dosho was a student of Kukai and credited with carving the principal statue following a vision on the final day of his practice. He is also credited with constructing the nearby Togetsukyо Bridge, which the temple managed and collected tolls from until the mid-1800s. Though the original buildings burned in 1864, the institution itself spans over 1,200 years. The temple is a quiet counterpart to the more crowded Arashiyama landmarks a short walk away.
Remove shoes before entering any hall. Look for a shoe rack at the entrance. Carry a plastic bag for your shoes if none is provided.
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