Otokuni-ji Temple (Kyoto Prefecture)

Otokuni-ji Temple (Kyoto Prefecture) Complete Guide｜A Renowned Peony Temple and Historic Temple with Connections to Kobo Daishi – Highlights, Access, and History

Otokuni-ji Temple (乙訓寺), located in Imari, Nagaoka-kyo City, Kyoto Prefecture, is a Shingon Buddhist temple of the Toyosan school boasting approximately 1,400 years of history. This ancient temple, believed to have been founded by Prince Shotoku, is the site where Kobo Daishi Kukai and Dengyo Daishi Saicho first met, and is known in spring as the “Peony Temple” where approximately 2,000 peonies bloom gloriously, continuing to captivate countless pilgrims and tourists.

This article provides detailed explanations of everything you should know before visiting Otokuni-ji Temple, including its history, highlights, access methods, and visiting information.

History and Origins of Otokuni-ji Temple

Founding Legend by Prince Shotoku

The founding of Otokuni-ji Temple is said to date to around 603 (the 11th year of Emperor Suiko’s reign). According to temple tradition, Prince Shotoku founded the temple at the imperial command of Emperor Suiko, and it has served as the oldest temple in the Otokuni region, bearing a long history. Initially also called “Otokuni-no-miya,” it flourished as a center of Buddhist culture in this area.

Relocation of the Capital to Nagaoka-kyo and Temple Expansion

In 784 (the 3rd year of the Enryaku era), when Emperor Kanmu relocated the capital from Heijo-kyo to Nagaoka-kyo, Otokuni-ji Temple played an important role as a guardian shrine for the new capital. During this period, large-scale expansions were undertaken, and the temple developed into the largest temple in the Otokuni region. The temple grounds were vast, and records indicate it was a magnificent temple complex possessing numerous halls and pagodas.

The Site of Prince Sawara’s Confinement

In 785 (the 4th year of the Enryaku era), Otokuni-ji Temple became the stage of a historical tragedy. Prince Sawara (早良親王), implicated in the assassination of Fujiwara no Tanetsugu, was confined to this temple by his brother Emperor Kanmu. Prince Sawara is said to have refused to eat while protesting his innocence and to have died in resentment during transport to exile on Awaji Island. This incident is said to have been one factor in the relocation to Heian-kyo and is remembered as an important event in the history of Otokuni-ji Temple.

The Meeting of Kukai and Saicho

Particularly noteworthy in the history of Otokuni-ji Temple is that Kobo Daishi Kukai assumed the position of betto (a monastic official in charge of managing the temple) in the 2nd year of Konin (811). Kukai remained in this area for approximately three years and oversaw the temple’s operations.

During this period, Dengyo Daishi Saicho is said to have visited Otokuni-ji Temple and engaged in doctrinal debate with Kukai on esoteric Buddhism. This is said to have been the first meeting between these two giants of Japanese Buddhist history, and it exerted great influence on the subsequent development of Japanese Buddhism. Initially bearing a teacher-student relationship, the two later parted ways, each becoming the founder of Shingon and Tendai Buddhism respectively, forming the two major currents of Japanese Buddhism.

Warfare and Restoration

Like many other Kyoto temples, Otokuni-ji Temple fell into decline due to the Onin War (1467-1477). However, in the 8th year of Genroku (1695), it was restored with the assistance of Tokugawa Tsunayoshi, the fifth shogun, and the foundations of its present form were established. Since the Edo period, it has functioned as a branch temple of Hase-ji Temple of the Shingon Toyosan school and as a center of regional faith.

Highlights of Otokuni-ji Temple

The Main Buddha Image: The United Great Monks Statue

The principal image of Otokuni-ji Temple is an unusual Buddha statue called the United Great Monks Statue. This represents both Kobo Daishi Kukai and Dengyo Daishi Saicho as a single figure, symbolizing the historical fact that the two great monks met and interacted at this location. Such composite statues are rare throughout the country, making it an important cultural property demonstrating the uniqueness of Otokuni-ji Temple.

Nationally Designated Important Cultural Properties

Otokuni-ji Temple houses several nationally designated important cultural properties.

The Wooden Statue of Bishamonten is attributed to the later Heian period and is characterized by a powerful expression and meticulous sculptural technique. While possessing the dignity of a war deity, its expression somehow conveys a sense of compassion, testifying to the outstanding skill of the sculptors of that era.

The Wooden Standing Statue of the Eleven-Faced Kannon is also from the Heian period, captivating viewers with its graceful posture and delicate carving. The Eleven-Faced Kannon embodies the ideal of Mahayana Buddhism, bringing salvation from all directions, and is one of the central objects of faith at Otokuni-ji Temple.

These Buddhist statues are usually not open to the public but may be viewable during special viewing periods.

The Peony Flower Location: “Peony Temple”

Otokuni-ji Temple is widely known as the “Peony Temple.” Approximately 2,000 peonies (according to some sources, about 1,000) are planted throughout the temple grounds, and each year from late April to early May, they produce large, multicolored flowers in red, white, pink, yellow, and other hues.

The peony is also called the “King of Flowers,” and its magnificent and gorgeous appearance has captivated many people since ancient times. Otokuni-ji Temple’s peony garden ranks among the largest in the Kansai region, and during its peak bloom, visitors can enjoy the spectacular sight of the temple grounds filled with flowers.

During the peony blooming season, many pilgrims visit to enjoy photography and flower viewing. The contrast between the tranquil atmosphere of the ancient temple and the vibrant peonies leaves a deep impression on visitors.

Highlights of the Temple Grounds

The main hall was built at the time of restoration in the Edo period and is characterized by its robust construction. Inside, the principal image of the United Great Monks Statue is enshrined, allowing visitors to worship in a serene atmosphere.

The temple’s other structures, such as the bell tower and kitchen building, also transmit the architectural style of the Edo period and possess historical value.

The temple grounds are relatively compact, and can be toured in approximately 30 minutes to one hour. Even outside the peony season, there is charm in visiting the quiet temple grounds and reflecting on history.

Visiting Information

Visiting Hours and Admission Fee

• Visiting Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (Gate closes at 5:00 p.m.)
• Holidays: Open year-round
• Admission Fee:
• Regular period: Free (donations welcome)
• Peony bloom period (late April to early May): Approximately 500 yen for adults (may vary by year)

As the peony bloom schedule and admission fees may change, it is recommended to confirm with the official website or by phone before visiting.

Location and Contact Information

• Address: 〒617-0814 3-chome Imari, Nagaoka-kyo City, Kyoto Prefecture 14-7
• Phone: 075-951-5759

Access

Access by Train

If using the Hankyu Kyoto Main Line:

• Get off at “Nagaoka Tenjin Station,” approximately 15 minutes on foot
• Or use bus service from the station

If using the JR Tokaido Shinkansen (JR Kyoto Line):

• Get off at “Nagaoka-kyo Station,” approximately 40 minutes on foot
• Or use bus service from the station (approximately 10 minutes)

Access from Hankyu Nagaoka Tenjin Station is most convenient. Walk westward from the station toward the Imari intersection. Directional signs are posted along the way, making the route relatively easy to follow.

Access by Bus

Bus service is available from Hankyu Nagaoka Tenjin Station or JR Nagaoka-kyo Station via Hankyu Bus.

• Get off at the “Imari” bus stop, approximately 5 minutes on foot

Temporary buses may operate during the peony bloom season.

Access by Car

• Approximately 20 minutes from the Kyoto Minami Interchange on the Meishin Expressway
• Approximately 10 minutes from the Nagaoka-kyo Interchange on the Kyoto Vertical Expressway

A few parking spaces are available at the temple, but congestion is expected during the peony bloom season. Use of nearby paid parking lots or public transportation is recommended.

Maps and Nearby Information

Otokuni-ji Temple is located on the west side of the Imari intersection on Kyoto Prefectural Road 203. Nearby are Nagaoka Tenmangū and Komyo-ji Temple, among other historically significant shrines and temples, and visiting them together provides deeper understanding of the history and culture of Nagaoka-kyo City.

Annual Events at Otokuni-ji Temple

Peony Festival (Late April to Early May)

This is Otokuni-ji Temple’s largest annual event. Approximately 2,000 peonies bloom in splendor, and the period draws many pilgrims. It is also an excellent photography spot for photography enthusiasts.

Other Rituals and Events

As a Shingon Buddhist temple, various religious services are held throughout the year. On the 21st of each month, the death anniversary of Kobo Daishi, monthly services are held and local followers visit for worship.

Tourist Attractions Around Otokuni-ji Temple

Nagaoka Tenmangū

Located approximately 15 minutes on foot from Otokuni-ji Temple, Nagaoka Tenmangū is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane and is revered as the kami of learning. It is particularly famous for its spring Kirishima azaleas, and many tourists visit it along with Otokuni-ji Temple.

Komyo-ji Temple

Komyo-ji Temple, the head temple of the Nishi Hongan-ji sect of Pure Land Buddhism, is one of Nagaoka-kyo City’s representative temples. Known as a prime autumn foliage viewing spot, many pilgrims visit in fall. It is approximately 10 minutes by car from Otokuni-ji Temple.

Nagaoka-kyo Ruins

Remains of Nagaoka-kyo, to which Emperor Kanmu relocated the capital in 784, are found at various locations throughout the city. Otokuni-ji Temple played an important role during the Nagaoka-kyo period, and one can feel the history of that era.

Etiquette and Precautions When Visiting Otokuni-ji Temple

Worship Etiquette

Otokuni-ji Temple currently functions as a place of faith. When visiting, observe the following etiquette:

• Walk quietly within the temple grounds
• Confirm in advance before taking photographs inside the main hall
• Do not touch peony flowers or pick them
• Refrain from entering areas not designated for visitors

Photography

During the peony bloom season, many visitors come to enjoy photography, but care should be taken not to inconvenience other worshippers. Use of tripods may be restricted during crowded periods.

Clothing and Belongings

Some areas of the temple grounds are unpaved, so wearing comfortable walking shoes is recommended. During peony season, the sun can be strong, so a hat or parasol is convenient.

The Charm of Otokuni-ji Temple and Why You Should Visit

The greatest charm of Otokuni-ji Temple lies in the ability to experience both 1,400 years of history and spring peonies simultaneously, adding depth in both time and space. It is the stage of history involving important figures in Japanese history such as Prince Shotoku, Emperor Kanmu, Prince Sawara, Kobo Daishi Kukai, and Dengyo Daishi Saicho, and its historical value is immeasurable.

In particular, the fact that Kukai and Saicho met and engaged in doctrinal debate on esoteric Buddhism marks an important turning point in the history of Japanese Buddhism. Although the contents of their conversation at this location have not been recorded, considering the subsequent development of Japanese Buddhism, it is certain that this was an extremely significant meeting.

The spring peonies add vibrancy to this weighty history. The lavish and gorgeous appearance of the peony, called the “King of Flowers,” captivates viewers and makes one feel the arrival of spring. Otokuni-ji Temple, where history and natural beauty harmonize, offers a new discovery for Kyoto tourism.

Summary

Located in Imari, Nagaoka-kyo City, Kyoto Prefecture, Otokuni-ji Temple is a historically profound temple that has been the stage for important scenes in Japanese history, from its legendary founding by Prince Shotoku through the relocation of the capital to Nagaoka-kyo, Prince Sawara’s confinement, and the meeting of Kukai and Saicho. Belonging to the Shingon Toyosan school, it currently functions as a center of regional faith.

In spring, it is widely known as the “Peony Temple” where approximately 2,000 peonies bloom, and many pilgrims and tourists visit from late April to early May. It also houses valuable cultural properties, including the nationally designated important cultural property wooden standing statue of Bishamonten and the wooden standing statue of the Eleven-Faced Kannon.

Access is convenient, being approximately 15 minutes on foot from Hankyu Nagaoka Tenjin Station, and with nearby tourist attractions such as Nagaoka Tenmangū and Komyo-ji Temple, it serves as an ideal base for a tour of the history and culture of Nagaoka-kyo City.

Whether you are a history enthusiast or a flower lover, Otokuni-ji Temple is a worthwhile and charming temple to visit. Why not venture a little beyond central Kyoto to experience the serene atmosphere of this ancient temple, its rich history, and the vibrant spring peonies?