Complete Guide to Shōhō-ji (Kyoto Prefecture) | Thorough Explanation of 3 Temples in Nishi-kyō Ward, Yawata City, and Wazuka Town
There are three temples named “Shōhō-ji” within Kyoto Prefecture, each with different histories and characteristics. A Shingon Buddhist temple of the Tōji-ha sect in Ōharano, Nishi-kyō Ward; a renowned temple with connections to the Tokugawa family in Yawata City; and an ancient temple said to have been founded by Gyōki in Wazuka Town. This article provides comprehensive coverage of these three Shōhō-ji temples, including their histories, attractions, and visiting information.
Shōhō-ji (Nishi-kyō Ward, Kyoto City) | Ancient Temple Associated with Ganjin Wajō
History and Origins of Shōhō-ji (Nishi-kyō Ward)
Shōhō-ji, located in Minami-Kasuga-chō, Ōharano, Nishi-kyō Ward, Kyoto City, is known as a special head temple of the Tōji-ha sect of Shingon Buddhism. Its mountain name is Hōjusan, and its principal image is the rare three-faced thousand-armed Kannon.
The temple’s founding dates back to the Tenpyō Shōhō era (749-757). According to tradition, it began when Chii the Great Dharma Master, a senior disciple of Ganjin Wajō who founded Tōshōdai-ji in Nara, went into seclusion in this area. Ganjin Wajō is known as a high priest who transmitted Buddhism from China to Japan, and this temple carries the dignified history of having been founded by his direct disciple.
During the Heian period, records indicate that Kōbō Daishi (Kūkai), the founder of Shingon Buddhism, visited this place when he practiced austerities in Ōharano. With deep connections to Kūkai, the temple has been affectionately known as “Ōsaka’s Daishi-sama” in the community.
Characteristics of the Principal Image: Three-Faced Thousand-Armed Kannon
The principal image of Shōhō-ji, the three-faced thousand-armed Kannon, possesses a very rare three-faced form unlike the ordinary thousand-armed Kannon. This style is scarce nationwide and serves as a major attraction for visitors to Shōhō-ji.
The thousand-armed Kannon is said to possess one thousand arms to save all people, manifesting as a transformation of the Bodhisattva Kannon. The three-faced characteristic is said to represent compassion, looking after and saving even more sentient beings.
The Running Daikoku and the Hōshō Hall
In the Hōshō Hall within the temple grounds, a rare image of Daikoku called “Running Daikoku” is enshrined. This Daikoku stands out with the unique characteristic of depicting the deity running to bestow blessings on people as quickly as possible.
Daikoku, one of the Seven Lucky Gods, is widely worshipped as a deity of wealth and prosperity in commerce. There is a belief that the Running Daikoku grants these benefits even more swiftly, making it popular among visitors.
41st Temple of the Saikoku Yakushi Forty-Nine Temple Pilgrimage
Shōhō-ji is designated as the 41st temple of the Saikoku Yakushi Forty-Nine Temple Pilgrimage, attracting many pilgrims. Yakushi Nyorai is worshipped as a Buddha of healing and longevity, and pilgrimage has long been practiced as spiritual training for wishing for physical and mental health.
Visiting Information and Access (Nishi-kyō Ward)
Location: Minami-Kasuga-chō, Ōharano, Nishi-kyō Ward, Kyoto City
Access:
- From JR Mukaiyama Station or Hankyu Higashi-Mukaiyama Station, take Hankyu Bus to “Minami-Kasuga-chō” and walk about 8 minutes
- From Kyoto Prefectural Expressway “Ōharano IC,” drive about 5 minutes
Visiting Hours: 9:00–17:00 (varies by season)
Admission Fee: Free for grounds (confirmation required for main hall viewing)
Parking: Available (free)
The Ōharano area is located in a quiet, mountainous region away from central Kyoto, with temples and shrines such as Kasuga Shrine and Katsumochi-ji scattered throughout the historical area. Visitors can enjoy a relaxed pilgrimage in a nature-rich environment.
Shōhō-ji (Yawata City) | Renowned Temple with Tokugawa Connections
History of Shōhō-ji (Yawata City)
Shōhō-ji, located in Shimizu-i, Yawata, Kyoto Prefecture, is an ancient temple founded about 830 years ago in 1191 (Kenkyū 2). This temple is known for its deep connections with the Tokugawa family and received generous patronage from the Owari domain throughout the Edo period.
During the Muromachi period, it became an imperial votive temple of Emperor Go-Nara, establishing deep connections with the imperial family as a temple of high standing. Subsequently, when it was designated as the memorial temple of “O-Kame no Kata (Sōō-in),” the concubine of Tokugawa Ieyasu and the biological mother of Tokugawa Yoshinao, the first daimyo of the Owari domain, the temple’s scale and prestige greatly increased.
O-Kame no Kata (Sōō-in) and Connections to the Tokugawa Family
O-Kame no Kata was a concubine of Tokugawa Ieyasu who gave birth to Yoshinao, establishing the Owari Tokugawa line. Known by the Buddhist name Sōō-in, the Owari domain provided careful protection to Shōhō-ji to venerate her memory.
Through this connection, numerous valuable cultural assets and buildings related to the Tokugawa family remain at Shōhō-ji. The temple’s scale expanded and developed into an important religious facility in the Ōharano region throughout the Edo period.
Important Cultural Property: The Architectural Beauty of the Main Hall
The main hall of Shōhō-ji is a building constructed in 1710 (Hōei 7) during the early Edo period and is designated as a National Important Cultural Property.
Architectural Style:
- Five bays in length, seven bays in width
- Single story, irimoya (hip-and-gable) roof
- Three-bay worship platform
- Tiled roof
This main hall retains the characteristics of early Edo-period temple architecture, and its large scale speaks to the financial power of the Owari domain and the deep faith in Shōhō-ji at that time. It was designated as a National Important Cultural Property on May 21, 1984, and is currently preserved in good condition.
Points of Interest in the Temple Grounds
Besides the main hall, Shōhō-ji has abundant attractions within its grounds.
- Mountain Gate: A dignified entrance welcoming visitors
- Garden: A Japanese garden offering seasonal scenery
- Bell Tower: A Buddhist bell evoking historical atmosphere
- Grave Yard: Graves of historical figures including O-Kame no Kata
Annual Events and Cultural Experiences
Various religious events are held at Shōhō-ji throughout the year.
- New Year: New Year’s visits, New Year observances
- Spring Season: Spring equinox memorial service
- Fall Season: Fall equinox memorial service
- Other: Monthly services
General participation is possible for some events, and calligraphy copying and dharma talk experience programs are also offered (confirmation required in advance).
Visiting Information and Access (Yawata City)
Location: Shimizu-i, Yawata, Kyoto Prefecture
Access:
- About 15-minute walk from Keihan Electric Railway “Iwashimizu Hachiman-gū Station”
- Just off Keihan Bus “Shimizu-i” stop
- About 15 minutes by car from Meishin Expressway “Ōyamazaki IC”
Visiting Hours: 9:00–16:30 (last reception at 16:00)
Admission Fee: General ¥300 (for main hall viewing; grounds are free)
Parking: Available (for visitors)
Inquiries: Reception at temple office (telephone confirmation in advance recommended)
Yawata City is a historic town known for Iwashimizu Hachiman Shrine. A historical tour combining Shōhō-ji with surrounding temples and shrines in the area is recommended.
Shōhō-ji (Wazuka Town) | Ancient Temple Founded by Gyōki
History and Gyōki Legend of Shōhō-ji (Wazuka Town)
Shōhō-ji, located in Wazuka Town, Soraku District, Kyoto Prefecture, is a temple of the Yongenyuan-ha sect of Rinzai Zen Buddhism. According to tradition, it was founded in 744 (Tenpyō 16) by the high priest Gyōki to venerate the memory of Prince Asaka, a son of Emperor Shōmu.
Gyōki is a high priest of the Nara period known for establishing temples and social welfare facilities throughout the country. Many temples said to have been founded by Gyōki exist nationwide, and Wazuka Town’s Shōhō-ji is one of them, gathering local faith.
Though a son of Emperor Shōmu, Prince Asaka was a tragic imperial prince who died young. The fact that it was founded to venerate his memory demonstrates the high standing of this temple.
Restoration and Conversion to Rinzai Zen Buddhism
The original sect at the time of founding is unclear, but the temple was restored as a Yongenyuan-ha sect temple in 1644 (Shōhō 1). The Yongenyuan-ha is a branch of Rinzai Zen Buddhism with Yongenyuan-ji in Higashi-Ōmi, Shiga Prefecture, as its head temple, placing emphasis on Zen practice.
Noted as an Autumn Foliage Destination
Shōhō-ji in Wazuka Town is also known for its beautiful autumn foliage. Located in a mountainous area, the temple grounds and surrounding natural environment are rich, and many visitors come especially from mid-November to late November during the autumn foliage season.
In the midst of a quiet mountain village landscape, it has become a hidden gem where one can enjoy the contrast between the historic temple and the autumn colors.
Tourism Combined with Wazuka Town’s Tea Fields
Wazuka Town is known as the “Land of Uji Tea,” a tea-producing region. Beautiful tea field landscapes spread throughout, and the area is attracting attention as a place where one can feel the original Japanese landscape.
When visiting Shōhō-ji, combining a tour of surrounding tea fields, tea-picking experiences, and tea tastings is recommended. As “Tea of Kyoto,” tourism promotion is advancing in southern Kyoto Prefecture, with Shōhō-ji playing a role in this.
Visiting Information and Access (Wazuka Town)
Location: Wazuka Town, Soraku District, Kyoto Prefecture
Access:
- From JR Kamo Station, take Nara Kotsu Bus toward “Wazuka Town,” then walk from the nearest bus stop
- About 30 minutes by car from Kyoto-Nara Expressway “Kizu IC”
Visiting Hours: Grounds free to enter (confirmation required for main hall)
Admission Fee: Basically free (donations welcome)
Parking: Limited spaces available
Note: Public transportation is limited due to the mountainous area. Car access is convenient.
Wazuka Town is located somewhat away from central Kyoto, in the southern part of the prefecture, but offers a quiet and nature-rich environment as its charm. It is recommended for those who wish to spend time at a leisurely pace.
Comparison and Selection Guide for the Three Shōhō-ji Temples
The three Shōhō-ji temples in Kyoto Prefecture each have different attractions. It is recommended to choose according to your visiting purpose.
If You Prioritize Historical Value
Shōhō-ji in Nishi-kyō Ward: The appeal lies in its ancient history of being founded by Chii the Great Master, a disciple of Ganjin Wajō, and the rare three-faced thousand-armed Kannon as its principal image. Ideal for those interested in Shingon Buddhist faith and connections with Kūkai.
Shōhō-ji in Yawata City: Recommended for those interested in Edo-period history as a temple with Tokugawa connections. Also popular with architecture enthusiasts due to the high architectural value of the Important Cultural Property main hall.
Shōhō-ji in Wazuka Town: Possesses ancient origins through the Gyōki founding legend and its role as a memorial temple for Prince Asaka. Suitable for those interested in ancient history or Buddhism in the Nara period.
Choosing Based on Tourist Convenience
Access:
The Shōhō-ji temples in Nishi-kyō Ward and Yawata City have relatively easy access from Kyoto city center and the Osaka region.
Combined Tourism:
- Nishi-kyō Ward: Temple and shrine tours in the Ōharano area, including Kasuga Shrine and Katsumochi-ji
- Yawata City: The standard combination is with Iwashimizu Hachiman Shrine
- Wazuka Town: Tea field sightseeing and “Tea of Kyoto” area exploration
Seasonal Attractions
Spring: The Shōhō-ji area in Nishi-kyō Ward has many cherry blossom viewing spots, making it ideal for spring walks.
Autumn: Shōhō-ji in Wazuka Town is known for its beautiful autumn foliage. The autumn scenery at Shōhō-ji in Yawata City is also magnificent.
Year-round: Shōhō-ji in Yawata City’s Important Cultural Property main hall remains a constant attraction regardless of season, making it worthwhile to visit anytime.
Etiquette and Manners for Visiting Shōhō-ji Temples
Basic Visiting Etiquette
When visiting any of the Shōhō-ji temples, observe the following basic visiting etiquette.
- Bowing at the Mountain Gate: Bow at the mountain gate before entering the grounds
- Quiet Conduct: Spend time quietly on the grounds and do not disturb other visitors
- Photography: Photography inside the main hall or of Buddhist statues is generally prohibited. Confirm before photographing the grounds
- Dress: Avoid clothing with excessive exposure and dress with propriety
- Donations: Make offerings within your means
Regarding Temple Seals
Some temples issue temple seals (goshuin). Bring a seal book and ask politely. Remember that a seal is proof of your visit, not a stamp rally.
At Shōhō-ji in Yawata City, seals may be available upon prior confirmation. Shōhō-ji in Nishi-kyō Ward is a branch temple of the Saikoku Yakushi Pilgrimage, so seals for the pilgrimage circuit are available.
Precautions During Visits
- Visiting Hours: Confirm the visiting hours of each temple in advance
- Religious Services: Visiting may not be possible during services or events
- Weather: Mountain temples may become difficult to visit due to weather conditions
- Inquiries: For special viewings or detailed information, calling each temple in advance is most reliable
Conclusion: Visiting Kyoto Prefecture’s Shōhō-ji Temples
The three Shōhō-ji temples in Kyoto Prefecture are temples that each possess unique histories and attractions.
Shōhō-ji in Nishi-kyō Ward carries ancient history dating to its founding by a disciple of Ganjin Wajō, with highlights including the three-faced thousand-armed Kannon and the rare Running Daikoku. As a Shingon temple affectionately known as “Ōsaka’s Daishi-sama,” it offers peaceful visits in the quiet natural surroundings of Ōharano.
Shōhō-ji in Yawata City, as a renowned temple with Tokugawa connections, houses valuable cultural assets including an Important Cultural Property main hall. Its history as the memorial temple of O-Kame no Kata (Sōō-in) provides a precious example of the relationship between daimyo families and Buddhist temples during the Edo period.
Shōhō-ji in Wazuka Town possesses ancient origins through the Gyōki founding legend and its role as a memorial temple for Prince Asaka, with the beauty of autumn foliage and tea field landscapes as its charms—a hidden gem.
All three Shōhō-ji temples are valuable temples where one can experience Kyoto’s profound Buddhist culture and history. When visiting Kyoto, by visiting not only famous temples but also those rooted in local communities, one can experience a deeper appreciation of Kyoto’s charm.
When visiting, understanding the historical background of each temple and visiting with respect will make for a more fulfilling experience. A tour visiting all three Shōhō-ji temples according to season and purpose is recommended as a new way to enjoy Kyoto.
