Overview
Sanjūsangen-dō is a Tendai-sect Buddhist temple in Kyoto's Higashiyama district, officially named Rengeō-in. Part of the Myōhō-in complex, its principal image is a Thousand-armed Kannon, and the hall is famed for the 1,001 standing Kannon statues it houses.
Highlights
- ●A main hall roughly 120 m long
- ●1,001 standing Thousand-armed Kannon statues
- ●Kamakura-era main hall, a National Treasure
- ●17th site of the Rakuyō Kannon pilgrimage
History
The hall was founded around 1165 as a Buddhist chapel within a detached palace of the cloistered Emperor Go-Shirakawa. Destroyed by fire about 80 years later, it was rebuilt in 1266 during the Kamakura period, and this main hall is now a National Treasure. The name Rengeō-in derives from "Rengeō," an epithet of the Thousand-armed Kannon, and the building is known for its Wayō style.
Access
Located in Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto. It is relatively close to the Kyoto Station area; check maps or official information for detailed access.
Best season
As viewing centers on the indoor hall, it can be visited year-round. Cherry-blossom and autumn-foliage seasons add to the surrounding atmosphere.
Map
34.9879, 135.7717 · Wikidata
Suggested itinerary
- 1Enter the grounds and view the long main hall
- 2Behold the 1,001 standing Kannon statues inside
- 3Admire the Fūjin, Raijin, and 28 guardian statues
- 4Pay respects as a stop on the Rakuyō Kannon pilgrimage
Did you know?
💡 The name is said to come from the 33 bays (spaces between pillars) in the hall's inner sanctuary.
Nearby spots
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