Jakkou-in (Kyoto Prefecture) Complete Guide: History and Highlights of the Nunnery in Ohara Where Empress Kenreimon-in Spent Her Final Years
Jakkou-in (寂光院), nestled in the quiet mountain village of Ohara in Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City, is a Tendai Buddhist nunnery where Empress Kenreimon-in Tokuko, who appears in The Tale of the Heike, spent her final years. This ancient temple, said to have been founded by Prince Shotoku, is known as a special place that harbors tragic history while providing deep solace to all who visit.
Basic Information About Jakkou-in
Official Name: Seikozan Gyokusenji Jakkou-in (清香山 玉泉寺 寂光院)
Buddhist Sect: Tendai Buddhism
Principal Object of Worship: Jizo Bodhisattva
Founder: Prince Shotoku (by tradition)
Year of Establishment: 594 (Suiko 2)
Location: 676 Kusuo-cho, Ohara, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
Phone Number: 075-744-3341
Jakkou-in is a nunnery with approximately 1,400 years of history and is positioned as a temple of particularly high historical value among Kyoto’s temples.
History of Jakkou-in
Foundation and Prince Shotoku’s Connection
According to tradition, Jakkou-in was founded in 594 (Suiko 2) by Prince Shotoku to offer Buddhist prayers for the repose of his father, Emperor Yomei. This founding tradition, dating back to the Asuka period, indicates that Jakkou-in had deep connections with the imperial family from its earliest days.
Established from its inception as a nunnery, Jakkou-in played an important role as a place of religious practice for women. The temple’s mountain name “Seikozan” and temple name “Gyokusenji” express the pure atmosphere of this location.
Empress Kenreimon-in Tokuko’s Entry into Religious Life and The Tale of the Heike
The most significant event that inscribed Jakkou-in’s name in history was the entry into religious life of Empress Kenreimon-in Tokuko (建礼門院徳子).
Empress Kenreimon-in was born as the daughter of Taira no Kiyomori, became the imperial consort of Emperor Takakura, and gave birth to the future Emperor Antoku. However, with the defeat of the Taira clan at the Battle of Dan-no-ura in 1185 (Bunji 1), the Taira family was destroyed. Empress Kenreimon-in attempted to drown herself but was rescued and sent back to Kyoto.
Thereafter, Empress Kenreimon-in took Buddhist vows and became a nun, entering Jakkou-in in September of the same year. Together with her lady-in-waiting Awa-no-Naishi, she spent her remaining years here offering prayers for the repose of the Taira clan and the young Emperor Antoku, who had drowned.
In the final chapter of The Tale of the Heike, “The Initiations” (灌頂巻), the scene depicting the “Imperial Progress to Ohara” (大原御幸) in which retired Emperor Go-Shirakawa visits Empress Kenreimon-in is described. This scene is considered the climax of The Tale of the Heike, a masterpiece in which the emotions of Empress Kenreimon-in, who had experienced both glory and ruin, are poignantly conveyed.
Empress Kenreimon-in passed away at Jakkou-in in 1213 (Kenpo 1). She was said to have been 59 years old.
Modern History and Recovery from Fire
During its long history, Jakkou-in has experienced several difficulties. In particular, the main hall fire that occurred on May 9, 2000 (Heisei 12) became a major trial for Jakkou-in.
In this fire, the main hall and the principal object of worship, a standing Jizo Bodhisattva statue (designated Important Cultural Property), were damaged by fire. The principal object of worship was a precious Buddhist statue said to date from the Kamakura period, but it sustained significant damage in the fire. However, with support from local residents and from throughout the nation, the main hall was rebuilt in 2005 (Heisei 17), and the principal object of worship was restored.
The damaged former principal statue is currently preserved carefully at the temple and is sometimes made available to the public during special autumn viewings. This former principal object of worship is also called the “Six Hundred Thousand Jizo Bodhisattva,” and while bearing the marks of the fire, it has become an important presence conveying the tragedy of the Taira clan and the history of Jakkou-in to the present day.
Highlights of the Temple Grounds
Mountain Gate and Approach Path
The approach path to Jakkou-in is named the “Oharame’s Path” (大原女の小径), an evocative trail. From the Ohara bus stop, the approximately one-kilometer walk of about 15 minutes is dotted with red shiso fields and cafes, allowing visitors to enjoy beautiful mountain village scenery in Kyoto.
Upon arriving at the entrance to Jakkou-in, one encounters stone steps leading to the mountain gate. These stone steps create beautiful scenery in harmony with the surrounding nature, displaying particular beauty during the autumn foliage season.
Main Hall
The main hall, rebuilt in 2005 (Heisei 17), was constructed while following traditional style with modern techniques. Within the hall is enshrined the principal object of worship, a standing Jizo Bodhisattva statue.
Near the main hall remain traces of places associated with The Tale of the Heike, including a well said to have been used by Empress Kenreimon-in and the ruins of her hermitage.
The Mingiwa Cherry Tree (汀の桜)
The “Mingiwa Cherry Tree” in the temple grounds is named after a poem composed by retired Emperor Go-Shirakawa in the scene of the “Imperial Progress to Ohara” from The Tale of the Heike: “Upon the pool’s water, cherry blossoms from the shore fall scattered, and the flowers of the waves are in their full bloom.”
This cherry tree is said to have graced the temple grounds since the time of Empress Kenreimon-in, and in spring it blooms beautifully. The sight of cherry blossoms scattered on the pond appearing like white waves continues to fascinate visitors today.
The Thousand-Year Young Pine (千年の姫小松)
Within the temple grounds stands a pine tree called the “Thousand-Year Young Pine.” According to tradition, this pine was planted by Empress Kenreimon-in and has watched over Jakkou-in since the age of The Tale of the Heike.
The present pine is a later generation of the original, but it is carefully preserved as an important presence evoking the memory of Empress Kenreimon-in.
Ruins of Empress Kenreimon-in’s Hermitage
Near the main hall remain the ruins of the hermitage where Empress Kenreimon-in actually resided. These modest dwelling ruins tell of how Empress Kenreimon-in, who once enjoyed great splendor, lived in austere simplicity.
Gardens Associated with The Tale of the Heike
The temple grounds’ garden is designed to express the world of The Tale of the Heike. The pond-circuit style garden is pervaded by a serene atmosphere symbolic of Empress Kenreimon-in’s sorrow and prayers.
The garden is planted with seasonal flowers and plants, with spring cherry blossoms, early summer fresh greenery, and autumn foliage being particularly spectacular. One can imagine that Empress Kenreimon-in was comforted by this beautiful nature as she prayed for the repose of the Taira clan.
The Principal Object of Worship and Cultural Properties
Standing Jizo Bodhisattva Statue (Principal Object of Worship)
The principal object of worship at Jakkou-in is a standing Jizo Bodhisattva statue. The former principal object of worship prior to the Heisei 12 fire was a statue from the Kamakura period designated as an Important Cultural Property, but it was damaged in the fire.
The present principal object of worship is a newly created statue following the fire, a beautiful Buddhist statue following traditional style. Meanwhile, the damaged former principal object of worship, the “Six Hundred Thousand Jizo Bodhisattva,” has been restored and can be viewed during special autumn openings and other occasions.
The former principal object of worship, while bearing marks of the fire, conveys deep spirituality in its appearance. Many worshippers associate this former principal object with the tragedy of the Taira clan and the prayers of Empress Kenreimon-in.
Other Cultural Properties
Jakkou-in preserves items connected with Empress Kenreimon-in and materials related to The Tale of the Heike. While these are normally closed to the public, they may be viewed during special open occasions.
Furthermore, the structures and gardens of the temple grounds also possess high historical value and occupy an important place among Kyoto’s cultural heritage.
Jakkou-in and “Shiba-zuke,” the Specialty of Ohara
“Shiba-zuke,” the specialty product of Ohara, is said to originate at Jakkou-in.
According to tradition, when residents offered pickles made with red shiso to Empress Kenreimon-in during her residence at Jakkou-in, she named them “Purple-leaf Pickles” (紫葉漬け), and this is said to mark their beginning.
Today, red shiso cultivation remains vigorous in the Ohara area, with many shiba-zuke manufacturers. Red shiso fields spread along the approach path to Jakkou-in, and in summer their purple flowers bloom beautifully.
When visiting Jakkou-in, it is recommended to taste this historic shiba-zuke.
Annual Events
Okabochya Blessing (おかぼちゃ供養)
Each year, Jakkou-in holds the distinctive “Okabochya Blessing” ceremony. This event, named after pumpkin, which Empress Kenreimon-in is said to have favored, offers prayers for the health of visitors.
Special Autumn Opening
In autumn, special viewings of the former principal object of worship, the “Six Hundred Thousand Jizo Bodhisattva,” are sometimes held. During these occasions, visitors can view this precious Buddhist statue that has overcome the fire from close range.
Attractions in the Vicinity of Jakkou-in
Sanzen-in
Sanzen-in, located within walking distance of Jakkou-in, is a representative Tendai Buddhist temple of Ohara. Within its vast grounds is enshrined the National Treasure Amitabha Trinity, and its beautiful gardens are also a highlight.
Worshipping at both Jakkou-in and Sanzen-in together allows for a deeper understanding of the history and culture of Ohara.
The Village of Ohara
The village of Ohara surrounding Jakkou-in is an area of particularly beautiful rural scenery in Kyoto. The landscape, surrounded by red shiso fields, clear streams, and mountains, provides visitors with deep healing.
The tradition of the “Oharame” (大原女), women who carried firewood on their heads and traveled to Kyoto’s streets to sell it, is also a cultural characteristic of this region.
Visitor Information
Visiting Hours
- March–November: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM (closing time)
- December–February: 9:00 AM–4:30 PM (closing time)
※Final admission is 30 minutes before closing time
Admission Fee
- Adults: 600 yen
- Junior High School Students: 350 yen
- Elementary School Students: 100 yen
※Group discount available (30 or more people)
Closed Days
Open year-round (However, there may be days when viewing is not possible due to religious services, etc.)
Access
Access by Public Transportation
From Kyoto Station:
- Board Kyoto Bus Route 17 “Bound for Ohara” (approximately 60 minutes)
- Get off at the “Ohara” bus stop
- Walk approximately 15 minutes
From Kokusai Kaikan Station (Subway):
- Board Kyoto Bus Route 19 “Bound for Ohara/Koizushi” (approximately 20 minutes)
- Get off at the “Ohara” bus stop
- Walk approximately 15 minutes
The route from the Ohara bus stop to Jakkou-in is maintained as the “Oharame’s Path,” with abundant signage. Even a leisurely walk takes about 20 minutes.
Access by Car
Approximately 40 minutes from “Kyoto East IC” on the Meishin Expressway
Parking Lot: There is no dedicated parking lot at Jakkou-in, but there are paid parking lots near the Ohara bus stop.
※During tourist seasons such as autumn foliage, roads become congested, so use of public transportation is recommended.
Jakkou-in Through the Seasons
Spring (March–May)
In spring, Jakkou-in is adorned with cherry blossoms, beginning with the Mingiwa cherry tree. The fresh greenery is also beautiful, allowing visitors to worship while imagining the spring landscape that Empress Kenreimon-in once saw.
Summer (June–August)
The early summer fresh green foliage is beautiful, and the temple grounds are enveloped in deep green. The surrounding red shiso fields also come into season, with purple flowers blooming across the landscape.
Autumn (September–November)
The autumn foliage at Jakkou-in is best viewed from mid- to late November. The temple’s Japanese maple trees turn red and yellow, creating a beautiful landscape that evokes the melancholy of The Tale of the Heike. Among Kyoto’s famous autumn foliage spots, it is popular as a hidden gem where one can enjoy foliage in quiet contemplation.
Winter (December–February)
Jakkou-in draped in snow is enveloped in particular quietude. This is a season when visitors can ponder history while sensing the severity of the winters that Empress Kenreimon-in endured.
Tips for Visiting Jakkou-in
Recommended Length of Visit
Viewing the temple grounds typically takes 30 minutes to one hour. For a leisurely stroll through the gardens and immersion in the world of The Tale of the Heike, it is recommended to allow one hour or more.
Photography
Photography is permitted on the temple grounds, but photography inside the main hall is prohibited. Also, please be considerate of other visitors.
Clothing and Belongings
Since there are some uphill sections on the path from the Ohara bus stop to Jakkou-in, comfortable walking shoes are recommended. An umbrella or hat in summer and warm clothing in winter will enhance comfort.
Combined Tourism
Visiting both Jakkou-in and Sanzen-in is the standard route for Ohara sightseeing. Since viewing both temples takes approximately one hour each, it is good to plan a half-day to full-day excursion.
Conclusion
Jakkou-in is a temple of special significance in Kyoto where the history of its foundation by Prince Shotoku and the tragic life of Empress Kenreimon-in intersect. As a place associated with The Tale of the Heike, it appears in many literary and performance works and is deeply etched in the hearts of Japanese people.
The serene atmosphere pervading the temple grounds, gardens evoking the world of The Tale of the Heike, and the beautiful natural landscape of each season—all of these bestow profound emotion upon visitors to Jakkou-in.
Though located in Ohara, slightly removed from central Kyoto, its historical value and spiritual depth continue to attract many worshippers. It is a place we can heartily recommend to those wishing to touch the world of The Tale of the Heike, to those desiring to quietly sense history, and to those wishing to enjoy the beautiful natural scenery of Kyoto.
The quiet time Empress Kenreimon-in spent, her prayers for the Taira clan, and the history of Jakkou-in continuing for over 1,400 years—feeling all of this, please visit the quiet Jakkou-in of Ohara at least once.
