Shojuin Temple

In 1200, Shojuin temple was built as the sub-temple of Iioyama Ioukyouji Temple. It is an ancient temple located in Ujitawara, known as the birthplace of Kyoto’s famous green tea. The main deity is the Juichimen Kanzeon (11-faced Kanzeon). This marvelous statue is shown to the public every 50 years. Also on display is the Fudo Myouou Statue, a national designated important cultural heritage built in the Kamakura Period by the monk Kaikei. The beautiful 160 Flower-Ceiling shows Japanese scenery. There is plenty to see in this temple.

Every Summer from June to September is the “Furin (Wind chime) Festival”, where 2000 bells hung around the temple premises make their cool sounds, also known as “Kyoto’s Wind chime Temple”. These bells are decorated with drawings of flowers, and icons from the 47 prefectures of Japan. It is beautiful to the eye. Also held is a wind chime Drawing Workshop.

Other events include a garden yoga workshop, a prayer beads workshop where visitors can learn about natural stones and customize their very own prayer beads bracelet. The heart sutra workshop allows visitors to make their own eleven-faced kannon or fudou-myouou drawing. Each workshop requires an extra fee, and must be reserved in advance. The workshop may not be open during certain seasons, make sure to check their website.