Bishamondo Monzeki

Rooted in the Izumo Temple, founded by Gyoki in 703, Bishamondo in the Yamashina ward of Kyoto is dedicated to Bishamonten, one of the Seven Gods of Fortune, and is one of the "Tendai Sect Kyoto Gokashitsu Monzeki."

Passing through the vermillion Niomon Gate, the main hall, established in 1666 and enshrining Bishamonten, was built with donations from the Tokugawa family, incorporating the architectural style of Nikko Toshogu Shrine, which enshrines Tokugawa Ieyasu. Its vivid colors and decorations are strikingly different from other Kyoto temples. The temple houses valuable cultural assets, such as the "Eight-Direction Glaring Dragon" painted on the ceiling of the Reiden and the sliding doors in the Shinden, painted by Kano Tanyu's adopted son, Kano Eishin, using a reverse perspective technique that makes the paintings appear to move when viewed from different angles.

The precincts bloom with around 80 cherry trees, including a weeping cherry tree over 150 years old, in spring and are colored with autumn leaves leading up to the Imperial Messenger's Gate in fall. The Edo-period strolling garden, Bansuien, which changes its expression with the seasons, from fresh greenery to snowscapes, is also a reason for its popularity.