What is Iwafuneji Temple, Kyoto? Let's visit this tranquil place surrounded by nature!

Have you ever heard of Iwafuneji Temple in Kamo-cho, Kizugawa City, Kyoto Prefecture?

Although some may not know its location because it is on the border of Nara and Kyoto prefectures, the temple is well known to locals as a "flower temple" that often appears in the TV media.

So what kind of temple is Iwafuneji?

In this issue, we will introduce the history, features, and highlights of Iwafuneji Temple.

What is Iwafuneji Temple, Kyoto?

Iwafuneji Temple is located on the border of Nara and Kyoto Prefectures.

Many people visit this temple not only from Kyoto but also from Nara Prefecture.

It is a relatively new temple, rebuilt in 1987, and has a number of important cultural properties, including a seated statue of Amida Nyorai from the Heian period (794-1185) and standing statues of the Four Heavenly Kings from the Kamakura period (1185-1333).

Although many people visit the temple for the important cultural asset Buddha statue, it is a bit far from the nearest station, making it a popular spot for those who want to avoid the tourist spots.

History of Iwafuneji Temple, Kyoto

Iwafuneji Temple is located in Kamo-cho, Kizugawa City, Kyoto Prefecture, and is a temple of the Shingon Ritsu sect.

It was founded by Gyoki at the behest of Emperor Shomu in 729 (the first year of the Tenpyo period).

In the early Heian period (794-1185), Chisen, a nephew of Kukai, entered the temple and built Hoonin, a place of propagation and perfection where esoteric Buddhist rituals were performed.

In its heyday, there were many monasteries within its spacious precincts, but most of Iwafuneji was destroyed by fire during the Jokyu Incident that broke out in 1221.

However, it was gradually rebuilt during the Muromachi period (1336-1573) to its current state.

Iwafuneji Temple is famous for its hydrangeas, which can be seen in all four seasons.

Highlights of Iwafuneji Temple, Kyoto

Here is a summary of the highlights of Iwafuneji Temple.

If you are planning to visit the site, please take a look at it!

Hydrangea macrophylla

The highlight of Iwafuneji Temple is the hydrangea blooming in the temple grounds.

It is also said to be a hidden place for hydrangeas, which are usually at their best from early June to early July and attract many tourists during this period.

The three-story pagoda, which was rebuilt in the Muromachi period (1336-1573), and hydrangeas give a sense of elegance, so be sure to take a look.

○Hondo

According to temple legend, Emperor Shomu had Gyoki build the Amida Hall in 729, and Kukai and his nephew, Chisen Daitoku, built the new Hoonin Temple.

The temple's integration into nature is breathtaking.

○Three-story pagoda

It is said to have been built in memory of Emperor Nimyo after the death of Chisen Dai-iru in 825.

The present pagoda was rebuilt in 1442.

Sugata is beautiful, somehow matching the scenery surrounded by greenery.

The rafters at the four corners supporting the roof are carved with "Sumi Oni" (corner demons).

Seated Amida Nyorai

Seated Amida Nyorai, the principal image of Iwafuneji Temple.

The seated height is over 2.8 meters, making it a powerful sight.

The Buddha image is inscribed with the year Tenkei 9 (946) and is designated as an important cultural property.

Iwafuneji Thirteen-Story Pagoda

The thirteen-story pagoda of Iwafuneji Temple, designated as an important cultural property.

The thirteen-story stone pagoda, stacked with thirteen shade stones, stands 6.2 meters high.

Fugen Bosatsu (Samantabhadra) mounted elephant statue

The mounted statue of Fugen Bosatsu, now enshrined beside the main image in the main hall.

It is a small Buddha statue of about 40 cm, but it has the expression of a white elephant with six tusks.

Review of Iwafuneji Temple, Kyoto

Take a look at the reviews of Iwafuneji Temple in Kyoto, Japan.

I went to Iwafuneji Temple for the red seal. I recommend that you wear shoes with thoughtful footwear during the hydrangea season. The mountain road is very narrow, so it is a difficult place to drive by yourself. However, I am glad I went there! It was a wonderful place to visit.

Iwafuneji Temple is a wonderful spot! Iwafuneji Temple is crowded with many tourists, especially during the hydrangea season.

Hydrangea temple. This temple is a branch temple of Ichijoin Temple of Kofukuji Temple. It is interesting to enjoy the three-story pagoda, the point of interest here, from various angles.

I think the contrast between the greenery and the red of the main shrine and the end shrines is a highlight. I was healed by the abundance of greenery.

The contrast between the fresh greenery, hydrangea, and the vermilion three-story pagoda was absolutely beautiful, and I would like to visit again. I was satisfied to see many important cultural assets from the Heian and Muromachi periods in the Buddhist temple.

■Address and access to Iwafuneji Temple, Kyoto

Finally, let's look at the address and access to Iwafuneji Temple in Kyoto, Japan.

○Address of Iwafuneji Temple, Kyoto, Japan

43 Kaminomon, Iwafune, Kamo-cho, Kizugawa-shi, Kyoto

Access to Iwafuneji Temple, Kyoto, Japan

Approximately 70 minutes walk from Kamo Station on the JR Kansai Main Line

Phone number

0774-76-3390

○ Homepage

https://gansenji.or.jp/

■ Summary

How was it?

In this issue, we have introduced "Iwafuneji Temple," which is also known for its hydrangea.

You can see a variety of flowers regardless of the season, and since it also holds many important cultural assets, please visit this spot as a hidden gem.