Jizoin Temple / Takezuka (Kyoto Prefecture) Complete Guide | Ancient Temple Associated with Ikkyū Zenji, Surrounded by Bamboo Grove and Moss
Nestled quietly in the foothills of Nishikyō Ward, Kyoto City, Jizoin Temple is a Rinzai sect independent Zen temple affectionately known as “Takezuka” or “Bamboo Temple.” The beautiful bamboo grove covering the entire temple grounds, the carpet of moss, and the historical background of Zen master Ikkyū spending his childhood here quietly soothe the hearts of visitors. This article provides comprehensive details about Jizoin, from its history to must-see spots, seasonal attractions, and visiting information.
History and Origins of Jizoin (Takezuka Temple)
Founding and Hosokawa Yoriyuki
Jizoin Temple was founded in 1367 (Joji 6) by Hosokawa Yoriyuki, who served as administrator of the Muromachi Shogunate. As a high-ranking official of the Muromachi Shogunate, Hosokawa Yoriyuki supported Ashikaga Yoshimitsu and played an important political role. He invited Zen master Sōkyō to establish the temple and revered Musō Soseki (Musō Kokushi) as the founding patriarch.
Musō Kokushi was a Zen monk who flourished from the late Kamakura period through the Northern and Southern Courts period and was renowned as a master of garden design. He is famous for creating gardens of Kyoto’s most prestigious temples, including Tenryuji and Saihōji (Moss Temple). Since its founding, Jizoin has been carefully preserved as the ancestral temple of the Hosokawa clan, without accepting lay parishioners, serving as a place of faith for the family.
Mountain Name and Principal Image
Jizoin’s mountain name is “Eriuzanzan.” The principal image is the Jizō Bodhisattva, believed to grant benefits of longevity and safe childbirth, and has long been revered by the local community as the “Valley Jizō.” Jizō Bodhisattva is widely worshipped as a guardian of children and travelers, and many visitors praying for safe childbirth and child-rearing come to pay their respects.
In the main hall, wooden statues of the principal Jizō Bodhisattva, the founder Hosokawa Yoriyuki, Musō Soseki, and Zen master Sōkyō are enshrined, conveying the temple’s history to the present day.
Origin of the Name “Takezuka”
Jizoin came to be called “Takezuka” or “Bamboo Temple” because its grounds are extensively covered with bamboo groves. From the approach path to the main hall, a tunnel of overhanging bamboo invites visitors to another world. Following its registration as a cultural property after World War II and subsequent opening to the public, the common name “Takezuka” spread due to this beautiful bamboo landscape.
Bamboo groves are an important element in Japanese gardens, and their refreshing and serene quality is deeply connected to the spirituality of Zen. The bamboo grove at Jizoin is not mere decoration but an important entity embodying the spirituality of a Zen temple.
Connection with Zen Master Ikkyū
Birth and Childhood of Ikkyū Zenji
Jizoin is known as the birthplace of Zen master Ikkyū Sōjun (Ikkyū-san), famous for his wit, where he spent his childhood. Ikkyū Zenji was born here in 1394 (Ōei 1) and spent his early years with his mother until entering Ankokuji Temple at age six.
Zen master Ikkyū is said to be the son of Emperor Go-Komatsu, but due to political circumstances, he was forced to leave the imperial court and lived at this Jizoin with his mother. The six years he spent surrounded by his mother’s love are believed to have greatly influenced the personality formation of the later Ikkyū Zenji.
Statue of Ikkyū and His Mother
A statue of “Ikkyū and His Mother” is displayed within the temple grounds, allowing visitors to recall the warm time Zen master Ikkyū spent with his mother. This statue expresses the deep bond between mother and child and has become a popular spot where many visitors pause to view it.
Zen master Ikkyū later became one of the most prominent monks of the Muromachi period, known for his unconventional conduct and deep Zen attainment. The memories of his childhood, which became the origin of his character, still breathe in this Jizoin Temple.
Temple Grounds Highlights
Bamboo Grove Approach
The greatest attraction of Jizoin is undoubtedly its beautiful bamboo forest. Passing through the temple gate, visitors encounter an ethereal approach path with bamboo overhanging from above. Dappled sunlight filtering through the bamboo guides visitors into a world of silence.
Maples are also planted along both sides of the path, and during the seasons of early summer greenery and autumn colors, the green of the bamboo and the colors of the maples create a beautiful contrast. At ground level, a carpet of moss spreads, its soft green appearing pleasing to the eye.
The bamboo forest has the property of absorbing sound, so the temple grounds are constantly enveloped in silence. When the wind blows, the bamboo leaves rustle softly, and this cool sound helps calm the mind.
The Garden of Sixteen Arhats (Abbot’s Quarters Garden)
The garden facing the abbot’s quarters is called the “Garden of Sixteen Arhats,” a flat style karesansui (dry landscape garden) said to be created by Zen master Sōkyō. This garden was registered as a Scenic Site of Kyoto City in May 1987 (Showa 62).
Sixteen stone arrangements are placed in the garden, each expressing the practice of arhats (enlightened disciples of Buddha). Using dry landscape techniques while maintaining harmony with the surrounding bamboo grove, maples, and moss, it presents different appearances in each season.
This garden, said to have been beloved by Hosokawa Yoriyuki during his lifetime, quietly conveys the spirituality of Zen. Sitting in the abbot’s quarters and gazing at the garden is an ideal place to calm the mind and meditate.
Abbot’s Quarters (Kyoto City Designated Cultural Property)
The abbot’s quarters (hōjō) of Jizoin were registered as Kyoto City Tangible Cultural Properties (buildings) in May 1987 (Showa 62). The abbot’s quarters are the residential chamber of the chief priest in Zen temples and an important building where religious services and rituals are performed.
The abbot’s quarters of Jizoin are precious structures conveying the architectural style of Muromachi period Zen temples, characterized by their simplicity yet distinguished appearance. The interior houses the principal Jizō Bodhisattva and statues of successive high priests in a solemn atmosphere.
Moss Carpet
Another charm of Jizoin is the beautiful moss covering the entire temple grounds. From the approach path to the garden, various types of moss spread like a green carpet, their soft texture and deep green color delighting visitors’ eyes.
Moss thrives in high-humidity environments, so Jizoin’s bamboo-enclosed setting is ideal for moss growth. Moss glistening with rain or morning dew is particularly beautiful, shining like jewels. Visitors can appreciate the beauty of moss harmonizing with the bamboo forest, which differs from the famous Saihōji (Moss Temple).
Seasonal Attractions
Jizoin in Spring
In spring, the fresh green bamboo forest glows with vibrant color. The season when new bamboo shoots grow, the landscape overflows with vitality. The moss becomes moist from spring rains, displaying its most vivid green color of the year.
Spring is a season when relatively few visitors come, allowing quiet exploration of the temple grounds. Only birdsong and the whisper of the bamboo forest are heard in the silence.
Early Summer Greenery
Early summer is when the fresh green maple and bamboo forest at Jizoin are most beautiful. Along the approach, the overhanging bamboo and young maple leaves overlap, creating beautiful contrast between light and shadow.
During the rainy season, the rain-soaked bamboo grove and moss are particularly beautiful, offering an emotional, dewy landscape to enjoy. On rainy days, Jizoin possesses a serene beauty distinct from sunny days.
Summer Coolness
Summer at Jizoin offers a coolness that makes one forget Kyoto’s heat. The bamboo grove blocks the sunlight, creating a natural air-conditioning effect with refreshing air. When the wind blows, the sound of rustling bamboo leaves invokes coolness, refreshing both body and mind.
Summer is a relatively quiet season with fewer tourists, allowing leisurely exploration of the grounds. It is an ideal time to touch the spirit of Zen in this silence.
Autumn Foliage
Autumn at Jizoin draws many visitors as a renowned autumn foliage destination. The contrast between the green of the bamboo forest and the autumn colors of the maples is breathtakingly beautiful, particularly the view along the approach path is spectacular.
The Garden of Sixteen Arhats is also adorned with autumn leaves, where the colors of the dry landscape stones and foliage harmonize beautifully. The green of moss at one’s feet, green of bamboo, and reds and yellows of maples overlap—a landscape truly representing Kyoto’s autumn.
Autumn foliage typically peaks from mid-November through early December, though timing varies yearly; checking current information before visiting is recommended.
Winter Stillness
Winter is the quietest season at Jizoin. Bare maple branches and evergreen bamboo create a contrasting landscape, revealing a simple, austere beauty befitting a Zen temple.
When snow falls, Jizoin is particularly beautiful, the snow accumulating on the bamboo creating a fantastical world. However, snowy days make footing slippery; visitors must exercise caution.
Visiting Information
Visiting Hours and Admission
Visiting Hours
- 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM (Final admission 4:15 PM)
Closed Days
- Irregular closures (May close for temple events, etc.)
- Checking the temple’s official visiting calendar before your visit is recommended
Admission Fees
- Adults: 500 yen
- High school students: 500 yen
- Junior high school students: 500 yen
- Elementary school children and younger: Free
Notices
As a Zen temple that values silence, please note the following:
- Photography Restrictions: Photography is prohibited inside the main hall. Photography in the temple grounds is permitted but please be considerate of other visitors.
- No Tripods or Selfie Sticks: Use of tripods and selfie sticks is prohibited within the grounds.
- Maintain Quiet: Please remain quiet within the grounds and refrain from loud conversation.
- No Eating or Drinking: Eating and drinking within the grounds is prohibited.
- No Pets: Visiting with pets is not permitted.
Time Required
Leisurely exploring the grounds and viewing the Garden of Sixteen Arhats takes approximately 30 minutes to one hour. If sitting quietly for meditation or examining the garden carefully, plan for additional time.
Access Information
Address and Phone Number
Address
〒615-8285 Yamada Kita-no-cho, Nishikyō Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
Phone Number
075-381-3417
Access by Public Transportation
By City Bus
- From JR Kyoto Station: Take Kyoto City Bus 73 or 83, get off at “Kokedera/Suzumushigumi” bus stop, 3-minute walk
- From Hankyu Katsura Station: Take Kyoto City Bus 63 or 73, get off at “Kokedera/Suzumushigumi” bus stop, 3-minute walk
- From Hankyu Arashiyama Station: 25-minute walk or taxi recommended
By Kyoto Bus
- From Kyoto Station, take Kyoto Bus 73 or 83, get off at “Kokedera/Suzumushigumi” bus stop, 3-minute walk
The walk from the bus stop to Jizoin is a gentle uphill slope. Following the signposts ensures you won’t get lost, though comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
Access by Car and Parking
By Car
- Approximately 30 minutes from Meishin Expressway Kyoto Minami IC
- Approximately 20 minutes from Kyoto縦貫 Expressway Kutsukake IC
Parking
- Jizoin has no dedicated parking lot
- Use nearby paid parking facilities or public transportation is recommended
- During peak seasons like autumn foliage, surrounding roads may experience traffic; public transportation is more comfortable
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Saihōji (Moss Temple)
Located approximately a 5-minute walk from Jizoin, Saihōji is a world-renowned temple famous as the “Moss Temple.” Approximately 120 varieties of moss cover the grounds, and the garden designed by Musō Kokushi is designated as a Special Scenic Site and Historic Site.
However, Saihōji requires advance reservation (admission fee 3,000+ yen) and must be booked with roundtrip postcard reservations. Combined visits with Jizoin require prior planning.
Suzumushigumi (Kegōnji Temple)
Located approximately a 10-minute walk from Jizoin, Suzumushigumi is famous for the sound of bell crickets heard year-round within its grounds. The chief priest’s sermon is also popular, attracting many visitors. The “Lucky Jizō” that grants one wish is also famous.
Matsuo Taisha
Located approximately 10 minutes by car or 15 minutes by bus from Jizoin, Matsuo Taisha is one of Kyoto’s oldest shrines, revered nationwide by brewers as the god of sake brewing. Beautiful gardens, spring deutzias, and autumn foliage are also remarkable.
Special Initiatives at Jizoin
Temple Piano
Jizoin conducts a special initiative called “Temple Piano” where piano recitals are held within the grounds. The sound of piano resonating in the silence surrounded by bamboo grove provides deep emotion to visitors.
Since performance dates are irregular, check the official website for the latest information. This new fusion of music and Zen demonstrates the temple’s stance of preserving tradition while remaining open to contemporary society.
Perpetual Memorial Services Group Grave
Though Jizoin lacks a lay parishioner system, it offers perpetual memorial services group graves. This is a contemporary response to changing approaches to memorial services, offering new forms of commemoration as family structures diversify.
Takezuka Club
An organization called the “Takezuka Club” supports Jizoin, with members assisting with temple maintenance and cultural activities. Special events and information sharing for members are conducted, recommended for those wishing deeper involvement with Jizoin.
Recommended Tips for Visiting Jizoin
Early Morning Visits Recommended
The temple’s silence is best experienced in the early hours following opening. With few visitors and morning dew-covered bamboo and moss, the beauty is extraordinary. Particularly in summer, morning visits are most comfortable.
Weekday Visits Are Best
Weekends and peak foliage season can be crowded; weekday visits are recommended if possible. Weekdays allow leisurely exploration and quiet appreciation of the Garden of Sixteen Arhats.
Rainy Days Offer Special Appeal
Rainy days reveal different charms than sunny days. Rain-soaked bamboo and moss deepen in color, offering an emotionally evocative landscape. However, footing becomes slippery; rain gear and non-slip shoes are necessary.
Combine with Nearby Temple Visits
Numerous attractive temples dot the Jizoin area, including Saihōji and Suzumushigumi. Within walking distance, a “temple pilgrimage” visiting multiple temples is recommended. Each offers different attractions, providing an enriching day.
Conclusion
Jizoin (Takezuka Temple) continues to soothe the hearts of Kyoto visitors as a silent Zen temple enveloped in beautiful bamboo grove and moss. With over 650 years of history since its founding by Hosokawa Yoriyuki and as the birthplace and childhood home of Zen master Ikkyū, this temple is a precious repository of Kyoto’s history and culture.
The beautiful garden of the Sixteen Arhats, the ever-changing bamboo grove and maple landscape across seasons, and above all the silence pervading the entire grounds grant visitors profound peace. Among Kyoto’s touristy attractions, Jizoin, preserving the original quietude of a true Zen temple, is a special place to visit when wishing to calm one’s mind.
When visiting, confirm the latest visiting calendar and event information on the official website, maintain quiet within the grounds, and surrender yourself to the whisper of bamboo and green of moss. Surely you will experience precious moments free from daily clamor.
