Seiryoji Temple / Saga Shakaodo (Kyoto Prefecture) Complete Guide | The National Treasure Living Buddha Shakyamuni and the Ancient Temple Associated with Minamoto no Toru
Seiryoji Temple (清凉寺), located at the entrance of Sagano in Kyoto, is a Pure Land Buddhism temple affectionately known to Kyoto residents by the name “Saga Shakaodo” (嵯峨釈迦堂). It enshrines a National Treasure statue of Shakyamuni Buddha as its principal image and is also known as a site associated with Minamoto no Toru, who is said to be a model for Hikaru Genji. This article provides a detailed explanation of Seiryoji’s history, highlights, and visiting information that you should know before your visit.
What is Seiryoji / Saga Shakaodo?
Seiryoji is a Pure Land Buddhism temple located at Sagashakado Fujinokicho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto City. Its mountain name is Godai-san (五台山), derived from the sacred mountain of Wutai in China. The principal image is the Standing Statue of Shakyamuni Buddha (National Treasure), revered as the “Living Buddha Shakyamuni,” and due to its enshrinement of this Buddhist statue, the temple is widely known by the nickname “Saga Shakaado.”
The temple grounds serve as a starting point for exploring Sagano, making it an important cultural heritage site for tourists visiting the Arashiyama area. It is also known as a scenic spot for spring cherry blossoms and autumn maple leaves, where visitors can enjoy beautiful landscapes throughout the seasons.
Origin of the Name “Saga Shakaado”
The nickname “Saga Shakaado” derives from its location in the Sagano area and its enshrining of Shakyamuni Buddha as its principal image. Since ancient times in Kyoto, it has been affectionately known as “the Buddha Shakyamuni’s temple,” and local people sometimes simply call it “Shakaado-san.” It is characteristic that this nickname is more widely used than the formal name Seiryoji.
History of Seiryoji | Faith Passed Down from Minamoto no Toru to Chonen
The history of Seiryoji dates back to the early Heian period. Its origins are complex, with the histories of multiple temples overlapping to form the present-day Seiryoji.
Beginning with Minamoto no Toru’s Mountain Villa “Seika-kan”
The site of Seiryoji was originally part of the Imperial Villa “Saga-in” (嵯峨院) of Emperor Saga. Minamoto no Toru (源融, 822-895), a son of Emperor Saga, was granted this land and established a mountain villa called “Seika-kan” (棲霞観).
Minamoto no Toru was born as the twelfth son of Emperor Saga and rose to the position of Minister of the Left (左大臣), a prominent Heian aristocrat. He is said to be one of the models for Hikaru Genji, the protagonist in Murasaki Shikibu’s “The Tale of Genji,” and is also known for constructing a magnificent mansion called the Rokujokawahara-in. Minamoto no Toru enshrined a Triad of Amida Buddha at Seika-kan and was buried at this site after his death.
Creation of Seiryoji by Chonen
The actual founder of Seiryoji was Chonen (長和 or 奝然, 938-1016), a monk of Todai-ji Temple. In 983 (Eikan 1), Chonen traveled to Northern Song China and visited Mount Tiantai and Mount Wutai, among other pilgrimage sites. Mount Wutai, known as a sacred site of Manjushri Bodhisattva, is a spiritual mountain of Chinese Buddhism that deeply impressed Chonen.
Chonen made a vow to establish in Japan a temple modeled after Qingliangsi (清凉寺) on Mount Wutai. When he returned to Japan in 987 (Kanna 3), he brought with him a carved replica of a Standing Statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, said to have been transmitted from India to China. This statue became the National Treasure Standing Statue of Shakyamuni Buddha that is the principal image of present-day Seiryoji.
Chonen planned the construction of “Daiseiryoji” in Kyoto, but died in 1016 (Chowa 5) before completing his vision. His disciple Josan (盛算), inheriting his master’s wishes, enshrined the Standing Statue of Shakyamuni Buddha at the site of Minamoto no Toru’s former Seika-kan and re-established it as Seika-ji (棲霞寺). This is said to be the beginning of Seiryoji.
Changes from the Medieval to Early Modern Periods
In the Kamakura period, the temple was also known as the residence of Ryonin (良忍上人), the founder of Yuzu Nembutsu, and thrived as a nembutsu practice hall. It also played an important role as the birthplace of Saga Dainembutsu Kyogen.
During the Onin War (1467-1477), many buildings were destroyed by fire, but the temple was restored under the patronage of the Tokugawa shogunate and the imperial court during the Edo period. The present Main Hall was rebuilt in 1701 (Genroku 14) and is designated as a Kyoto Prefectural Important Cultural Property, retaining the style of Momoyama architecture.
Despite the effects of the Meiji-era anti-Buddhist movement, the temple protected valuable cultural assets and continues to this day.
Highlights of Seiryoji | From National Treasures to Gardens
Seiryoji contains numerous cultural properties and points of interest, including National Treasures. As you walk through the temple grounds, you can appreciate each attraction.
Nio Gate | An Imposing Temple Gate
The Nio Gate, which serves as the main entrance to Seiryoji, was built in the early Edo period. The Nio statues (Kongorikishi) enshrined on both sides welcome visitors. These Nio statues are remarkable for their powerful expressions and finely carved musculature, protecting the temple grounds as guardian deities that ward off evil.
Beyond the Nio Gate spreads a spacious temple courtyard, with the Main Hall (Shakaado) visible directly ahead. On both sides of the gate are enshrined sixteen Rakan statues, each displaying a different expression.
Main Hall (Shakaado) | Kyoto Prefectural Designated Cultural Property
The Main Hall of Seiryoji, commonly called “Shakaado,” is the center of the temple. Rebuilt in 1701 (Genroku 14), it is an imposing structure that retains echoes of Momoyama architecture. Designated as a Kyoto Prefectural Important Cultural Property, its substantial construction is impressive to behold.
Inside the Main Hall is enshrined the principal image, the Standing Statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, which can be viewed up close upon paying the viewing fee. The interior is enveloped in a solemn atmosphere, with visitors constantly offering quiet prayers.
National Treasure Standing Statue of Shakyamuni Buddha | The Living Buddha Shakyamuni Transmitted Through Three Lands
The greatest treasure of Seiryoji is the Standing Statue of Shakyamuni Buddha (National Treasure), the principal image. This statue is revered as “the Buddha Shakyamuni transmitted through three lands” and “the Living Buddha Shakyamuni” and is counted among Japan’s three principal Buddha statues.
The Origin of “Transmission Through Three Lands”
This Standing Statue of Shakyamuni Buddha is called “transmitted through three lands” (三国伝来) because it is said to have been created in India to capture the appearance of Shakyamuni during his lifetime, transmitted through China, and brought to Japan. It is a carved replica created at the request of Chonen by Song-dynasty sculptors based on the legendary statue reportedly carved by King Udayana (優填王) to capture Shakyamuni’s likeness.
Surprising Contents Within the Statue
In a 1953 investigation, silk models of internal organs, Buddhist scriptures, coins, and other items were discovered inside the statue. This is an extremely rare example worldwide, demonstrating the fusion of Buddhist thought and medical knowledge of the time through the practice of enshrining models of human organs within a Buddhist statue.
These contents discovered within the statue are also designated as Important Cultural Properties and are occasionally displayed at the Reihokan.
Distinctive Style
The Standing Statue of Shakyamuni Buddha is remarkable for its highly realistic representation of drapery, retaining strong elements of Indian and Central Asian Buddhist statue styles. It has an exotic atmosphere unlike typical Japanese Buddhist statues and leaves a strong impression on visitors. With a height of approximately 160 centimeters, it is also characterized by its near life-size scale.
Reihokan (Treasure Hall) | Treasure House of Important Cultural Properties
The Reihokan of Seiryoji houses and displays numerous temple treasures, including National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties. A separate admission fee is required from the Main Hall, but it is well worth a visit.
The Reihokan displays the Triad of Amida Buddha (National Treasure), Buddhist statues such as Manjushri and Samantabhadra Bodhisattvas, historical documents, paintings, and other works. The Triad of Amida is particularly important as a statue associated with Minamoto no Toru and represents an excellent example of Heian-period Buddhist art.
Exhibition contents may vary by season and time period, so it is recommended to check before your visit.
Tahoto Pagoda and Gardens
In the depths of the temple grounds stands a Tahoto Pagoda, surrounded by beautiful gardens. The grounds are adorned by cherry blossoms in spring and maple leaves in autumn, allowing visitors to enjoy seasonal landscapes throughout the year.
Particularly during the autumn foliage season, trees colored red and yellow against the backdrop of the Main Hall and Tahoto Pagoda create beautiful scenery, attracting many photography enthusiasts.
Saga Dainembutsu Kyogen
Seiryoji is also known as the stage for “Saga Dainembutsu Kyogen,” one of Kyoto’s three major nembutsu kyogen performances. It is performed on the grounds at the Kyogen Hall in April and October each year, conveying Buddhist teachings through the art form of silent drama.
Said to have been initiated by Ryonin in the Kamakura period, it is designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property. This unique performance art, which expresses Buddhist tales through humorous movements and music, is well worth seeing.
As a Site Associated with Minamoto no Toru, Model for Hikaru Genji
Seiryoji is an important site from a literary history perspective as a place associated with Minamoto no Toru, said to be one of the models for Hikaru Genji, the protagonist of “The Tale of Genji.”
Minamoto no Toru was the son of Emperor Saga who underwent descent from imperial status (降籍) to become Minamoto and rose to the position of Minister of the Left. Known as a handsome, refined aristocrat with deep cultural learning and a love of refined pursuits, his life shares many similarities with Hikaru Genji’s character.
Seika-kan was where Minamoto no Toru spent his later years, and after his death, he was buried at this site. A stone monument (Hokyo-intou) believed to be the grave of Minamoto no Toru still exists on the temple grounds, visited by fans of literature and history enthusiasts.
The description in “The Tale of Genji” of “the Sagano temple founded by Hikaru Genji” is also interpreted to refer to the site of this Seiryoji, making it a fascinating spot where the literary narrative and historical reality intersect.
Annual Events and Special Viewings
Throughout the year, Seiryoji hosts various events.
Major Annual Events
- January 1-3: Shushoee (修正会)
- March 15: Nehankaai (涅槃会) – A memorial service honoring Shakyamuni’s entry into Nirvana
- Early April: Saga Dainembutsu Kyogen
- Third Sunday in May: Saga Festival
- Early October: Saga Dainembutsu Kyogen
- Early November: Yugiri Festival – An event related to “The Tale of Genji”
During these events, visitors can experience the temple in a special atmosphere.
Otaimatsu Ceremony
On March 15 during the Nehankaai, the “Otaimatsu Ceremony” is held at night. Three large torches, each standing 7 meters tall, are lit, and the intensity of their flames is used to divine that year’s rice harvest prospects. The fantastical sight of flames illuminating the night sky captivates many visitors.
Viewing Information | Access, Hours, and Admission
Here is essential information for visiting Seiryoji.
Basic Information
- Formal Name: Godai-san Seiryoji Temple
- Nickname: Saga Shakaado
- Buddhist Sect: Pure Land Buddhism
- Principal Image: Standing Statue of Shakyamuni Buddha (National Treasure)
- Founder: Chonen
- Opening Founder: Josan
- Address: 〒616-8447 46 Sagashakado Fujinokicho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
- Phone Number: 075-861-0343
Viewing Hours
- Regular Period: 9:00 AM–4:00 PM
- April, May, October, November: 9:00 AM–4:30 PM
※Final admission is 15 minutes before closing time
Admission Fees
- Temple Grounds: Free
- Main Hall (Shakaado): General ¥500, Middle/High School Students ¥400, Elementary School Students ¥300
- Reihokan (Treasure Hall): General ¥400 (combination ticket with Main Hall available)
※Admission fees may change; please check the official website before your visit.
Access Methods
By Train
- JR Sagano Line: Approximately 10 minutes walk from Sagaarashiyama Station
- Keifuku Arashiyama Line (Randen): Approximately 15 minutes walk from Arashiyama Station
- Hankyu Arashiyama Line: Approximately 20 minutes walk from Arashiyama Station
By Bus
- Kyoto City Bus: 3 minutes walk from “Sagashakadoumae” bus stop
- Lines 28, 91, etc. are available
By Car
- Approximately 40 minutes from Kyoto Minami IC on the Meishin Expressway
- Parking: Paid parking lot on temple grounds (approximately 30 spaces, around ¥800 per day)
※During peak foliage season and tourist season, surrounding roads become congested; public transportation is recommended.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Seiryoji is located at the entrance to the Sagano area, with many tourist attractions nearby.
Sagano Walking Course
Starting from Seiryoji, the following walking course is recommended.
- Seiryoji → 5 minutes walk → Hokyo-in Temple (Famous for autumn foliage)
- Hokyo-in → 10 minutes walk → Nison-in Temple (Famous for its maple leaf avenue)
- Nison-in → 5 minutes walk → Jojakko-ji Temple (Spectacular views of Tahoto Pagoda and foliage)
- Jojakko-ji → 10 minutes walk → Nonomiya Shrine (Shrine for matchmaking)
- Nonomiya Shrine → 5 minutes walk → Bamboo Grove Path (Representative Arashiyama scenery)
This course can be completed in approximately 2-3 hours and fully captures the charm of Sagano.
Other Nearby Attractions
- Tenryu-ji Temple: World Heritage Zen temple with the beautiful Sogenchi Pond Garden
- Togetsukyo Bridge: An elegant bridge spanning the Katsura River, symbol of Arashiyama
- Daikaku-ji Temple: A monzeki temple associated with Emperor Saga, with beautiful views of Osawa Pond
Points to Keep in Mind When Visiting Seiryoji
Recommended Visiting Seasons
Seiryoji offers beautiful scenery throughout the year, but the most recommended periods are as follows.
- Spring (Early April): Cherry blossoms are in full bloom, and Saga Dainembutsu Kyogen can also be viewed
- Autumn (Mid- to Late November): Autumn foliage reaches its peak, painting the grounds in reds and yellows
- Winter (December–February): Fewer tourists allow for quiet prayer and contemplation
Suggested Time for Your Visit
- Temple Grounds Only: Approximately 30 minutes
- Including Main Hall Viewing: Approximately 1 hour
- Including Reihokan: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes
- Including Surrounding Area Walking: Half day to full day
Notes for Your Visit
- Photography may be prohibited inside the Main Hall; please check in advance
- The Reihokan may be closed during certain periods
- Expect crowding during events such as Dainembutsu Kyogen
- The temple grounds are extensive, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended
Conclusion | Experience History and Culture at Seiryoji
Seiryoji / Saga Shakaado is a multi-layered attraction centered on the National Treasure Standing Statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, serving as a site associated with historical figures such as Minamoto no Toru and Chonen, and deeply connected to “The Tale of Genji.” With its principal image, the “Living Buddha Shakyamuni,” revered as transmitted through three lands, the Sagano landscape beloved by Minamoto no Toru, traditional performing arts such as Saga Dainembutsu Kyogen, and the beautiful natural scenery of the four seasons, Seiryoji represents a fusion of all these elements, making it an essential cultural heritage site not to be missed in Kyoto tourism.
As a starting point for exploring Sagano and as a place to deepen your understanding of Kyoto’s history and culture, be sure to visit Seiryoji. Standing before the National Treasure Buddha statue and gazing at the scenery beloved by Heian aristocrats will allow you to experience the charm of Kyoto across a thousand years of time.
