Kanchi-in
temple
Kanchi-in
観智院
Overview
Kanchi-in is a branch temple of Tōji and has been a place of religious scholarship since the fourteenth century.
This branch temple of Toji has been a center of Shingon Buddhist scholarship since the fourteenth century. The current buildings date to 1605, rebuilt after an earthquake destroyed the originals. Kanchi-in holds the largest collection of esoteric Buddhist texts in Japan, and its guest hall is designated a National Treasure. What draws many visitors is the pair of ink paintings attributed to Miyamoto Musashi, the renowned swordsman and artist, depicting a bamboo grove and eagles about to strike. Musashi is said to have stayed here after a duel. The paintings are displayed in a space that is quiet and largely crowd-free, even in central Kyoto.
Local tips
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.
Practical info
- Japanese name
- 観智院
- Nearest station
- Tofukuji Station (10 min bus)
- Reservations
- not required
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