Ryozen Kannon Temple Japanese Buddhism Traditional Kyoto Sacred Historic Temple

Ryozen Kannon Temple, nestled in the historic Higashiyama district of Kyoto, is a poignant war memorial and a significant site for Japanese Buddhism, offering a unique blend of traditional and modern elements. This temple, dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy, Kannon, serves as a solemn reminder of the lives lost during the Pacific War.

Location and Access

Ryozen Kannon Temple is conveniently located at 526-2 Shimokawahara-cho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto. Visitors can reach the temple by taking a 10-15 minute walk from Shijo Keihan Station or by bus from Kyoto Station. The bus ride, using lines #206 or #207, takes about 20 minutes to the Gion bus stop, followed by a short 10-minute walk up the hill.

Opening Hours and Admission

The temple is open daily from 8:40 AM to 4:20 PM, with the reception closing at 4:00 PM. Admission fees are ¥300 for adults and university students, ¥200 for junior high and high school students, and ¥100 for elementary school children.

Historical Significance

Ryozen Kannon Temple was established as a war memorial to commemorate the soldiers and civilians who lost their lives during the Pacific War. The temple was founded by Hirosuke Ishikawa, a business magnate, who intended to create a place of remembrance for the former Imperial Japanese Navy and Army, as well as Japanese civilians. Later, a memorial was added for Allied Second World War prisoners of war (POWs).

The Statue of Kannon

The centerpiece of the temple is a 24-meter-high concrete statue of Kannon, the Goddess of Mercy, weighing approximately 500 tons. Designed by the renowned sculptor Choun Yamazaki, this statue is a striking example of modern Buddhist architecture blended with traditional elements. Unlike many other Buddhist statues, visitors are allowed to enter the body of the Kannon statue, where they can see 12 guardian statues associated with the zodiac signs.

Memorials and Spiritual Practices

The temple grounds are filled with various memorials and spiritual practices that enhance the visitor's experience. The Reihaiden hall contains 600,000 small Buddhist tablets (ihai) for Japanese and other war dead. The Memorial Hall displays monuments for the unknown soldier, cabinets with the names of thousands of Allied POWs, and vessels of soil from war cemeteries. Visitors can also participate in daily memorial services and burn incense to honor the dead for an additional ¥100.

Unique Features

One of the unique features of Ryozen Kannon Temple is the opportunity for visitors to make a wish. A giant orb on the grounds is believed to manifest spiritual energy, and by rubbing this structure, making a wish, and writing it on a circular piece of paper, visitors can supposedly convert their desires into reality.

Combining Visits with Nearby Attractions

Ryozen Kannon Temple is strategically located near other significant attractions in Kyoto. Visitors can easily combine their visit with trips to the nearby Zen Buddhist Kodai-ji temple or the beautiful Maruyama Koen public park, especially popular during cherry blossom season.

Tips for Visitors

• Respectful Dress: Dress respectfully, as this is both a religious site and a war memorial.
• Photography: Photography is generally allowed, but be respectful, especially in areas dedicated to memorialization.
• Time Allocation: Allow at least an hour to fully explore the temple grounds and its memorials.
• Early Visits: Consider visiting early in the day to avoid crowds, especially during peak tourist seasons.