Rokuō-in Temple

Overview

Rokuō-in is an independent temple of the Rinzai Zen lineage, standing in the Saga Kitahori-chō district of Ukyō Ward, Kyoto. Its mountain name is Kakuyū-zan, and it enshrines Shaka Nyorai (the Buddha) as its principal image. Founded under the patronage of Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, the third shogun of the Muromachi shogunate, with the eminent monk Shun'oku Myōha as its first abbot, this venerable Zen temple sits in a corner of the Sagano district and is known as a comparatively peaceful place to enjoy autumn foliage. Its straight, stone-paved approach and moss-covered garden draw visitors into a calm world apart.

Highlights

• ●A venerable Zen temple founded by Ashikaga Yoshimitsu with Shun'oku Myōha as first abbot
• ●The principal image of Shaka Nyorai enshrined under the mountain name Kakuyū-zan
• ●One of Sagano's finest autumn foliage scenes, glowing vividly in fall
• ●A straight stone-paved approach and moss garden of quiet composure

History

Rokuō-in is said to have been established in 1380. Its founder was Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, the third shogun of the Muromachi shogunate, while its first abbot was the distinguished Rinzai monk Shun'oku Myōha. Beginning under the names of a shogun and a great monk, the temple carries a distinguished pedigree to this day. It now preserves its lineage as an independent temple of the Rinzai tradition, unaffiliated with any single branch, quietly enshrining its principal image of Shaka Nyorai under the mountain name Kakuyū-zan.

Map

35.0167, 135.6844 · Wikidata

Suggested itinerary

1. 1Head toward the Saga/Arashiyama district and walk to Rokuō-in from the nearest station
2. 2Stroll the stone-paved approach and pass through the gate into the quiet precincts
3. 3Pay respects to the principal image of Shaka Nyorai and admire the maple garden
4. 4After your visit, explore the wider Sagano area and extend the day to nearby landmarks

Did you know?

💡 This Zen temple bears the names of both a shogun and a great monk in its origins: it was founded by Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, third shogun of the Muromachi shogunate, with the eminent monk Shun'oku Myōha as its opening abbot. Remaining independent within the Rinzai tradition rather than tied to a single branch, it enjoys a quiet popularity as one of Sagano's foliage spots.

Nearby spots