Shogunzuka Seiryuden

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Shogunzuka Seiryuden

A scenic spot associated with Heian-kyo, offering panoramic views of Kyoto city from a large stage.

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Head Editor : Shogunzuka Seiryuden

Located within the detached precincts of the Tendai sect temple, Shoren-in, this historic spot sits atop Mount Kacho, about 200m above the Kyoto city area. Shogunzuka, which overlooks the capital as if to protect it, was constructed by Emperor Kanmu during the Heian period transfer of the capital, wishing for the peace and tranquility of the city. It is named after a 2.7m high earth mound with an iron-armored statue buried in it, resembling a shogun.

Next to Shogunzuka, the Goma-do hall "Seiryuden" was built in 2014 to enshrine the National Treasure "Ao Fudo Myo-o with Two Attendants," believed to be from the mid-Heian period. It is a relocated and reconstructed building originally known as "Butokuden" from the Taisho period, which was in front of Kitano Tenmangu Shrine. The actual National Treasure is placed in the inner sanctuary, and visitors can view a precise replica painting.

With the establishment of Seiryuden, a spacious wooden stage was constructed, offering sweeping views of Kyoto city and even parts of the Osaka area, making it an excellent viewing spot along with the western observation deck. Along the path to the western observation deck, there is a stroll garden incorporating karesansui (dry landscape). The garden is especially beautiful during the cherry blossom season in spring and the autumn foliage season, with nighttime illuminations creating a stunning interplay with the city lights.

Highlights

  • Located within the detached precincts of the Tendai sect temple, Shoren-in.
  • Shogunzuka, constructed by Emperor Kanmu, still exists.
  • The grand Goma-do hall "Seiryuden" houses the National Treasure "Ao Fudo."
  • The large stage adjacent to Seiryuden offers panoramic views of Kyoto city and the Osaka suburbs.
  • The garden is beautiful in spring with cherry blossoms and in autumn with colorful foliage.

Photos

  • Situated at the summit of Mount Kacho.

    Situated at the summit of Mount Kacho.

  • Light-up events are held during the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons.

    Light-up events are held during the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons.

  • Over 200 maple trees beautifully color the autumn garden.

    Over 200 maple trees beautifully color the autumn garden.

  • Shogunzuka, constructed by Emperor Kanmu wishing for the capital's peace.

    Shogunzuka, constructed by Emperor Kanmu wishing for the capital's peace.

  • Seiryuden, where the National Treasure "Ao Fudo" is enshrined.

    Seiryuden, where the National Treasure "Ao Fudo" is enshrined.

  • A large stage offering panoramic views of Kyoto city.

    A large stage offering panoramic views of Kyoto city.

Official FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.

Q

Do you have signs or pamphlets in foreign languages? (If you do, which languages are available?)

A

English pamphlets available.

Q

Is free Wi-Fi available in the area?

A

No free Wi-Fi available.

Q

Are coin lockers available?

A

Not available.

Q

Is it possible to re-enter the premises?

A

Re-entry is not allowed.

Q

Are there any smoking areas?

A

Not available.

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Details

Name in Japanese
将軍塚青龍殿
Postal Code
607-8456
Address
28 Zushiokukachocho, Yamashina-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto
Telephone
075-771-0390
Closed
Open every day
Business Hours
9:00am - 5:00pm (Admission allowed until 4:30pm)
Admission
Entry fee Adults 600yen, High school and junior high school students 400yen, Elementary school students 200yen
Access
1) From Keihan Main Line’s Sanjo Station, take the Keihan Bus for 25 minutes, get off at “Shogunzuka Seiryuden” Bus stop, and short walk from there.
※Except for specific days only operates on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays
2) About 10 minutes by taxi from Subway Tozai Line’s Higashiyama Station.
3) About a 30-minute walk along the Higashiyama Trail.
Credit Cards
Not accepted
Official Website
Official Website (English)