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Eikando (formal name: Zenrinji) is the head temple of the Jodo-shu Seizan Zenrin-ji school, in Sakyo Ward, Kyoto. Long famous as a foliage destination, as in the saying 'In autumn, Eikando of the maples,' its main image, the 'Mikaeri Amida' (Amida looking back), is known for its rare pose of looking back over the left shoulder. It is also Temple No. 2 of the Rakuyo Six Amida Pilgrimage.
Temple Info
- Sect
- Jodo, Seizan Zenrinji school
- Principal Image
- Amida Nyorai (Amitabha Buddha) (Mikaeri Amida, the Amida looking back)
- Founded
- Said to date from Ninju 3 (853)
History & Origins
It is said that in 853 (the 3rd year of Ninju), the monk Shinsho opened Fujiwara no Sekio's mountain villa as a temple. In the Heian period, the priest Eikan served as head priest and devoted himself to giving alms to the poor and medicine to the sick, which spread the name 'Eikando.' It became the base of the Jodo-shu Seizan school in the Kamakura period and has since been the head temple of that school.
Highlights
The main image, Mikaeri Amida, is a rare statue of Amida Nyorai looking back over his left shoulder, said to symbolize compassion 'looking back to save all beings.' The autumn leaves usually peak from mid to late November, and the view of the Tahoto pagoda with trees dyed in brocade colors is exceptional. The maples along the pond and the corridors in the grounds are also beautiful and popular as photography spots.
Visitor Guide
It is about a 10-minute walk from Keage Station on the Kyoto Municipal Subway Tozai Line, or about a 5-minute walk from the 'Nanzenji-Eikando-michi' city bus stop. Visiting hours are 9:00 to 16:00 (gate closes at 17:00). Admission is 1,000 yen for general visitors, 800 yen for university students, 600 yen for junior and senior high school students, and 200 yen for elementary school students. Allow about 60 to 90 minutes.
Best Season
The autumn foliage season from mid to late November is the peak. An autumn temple treasures exhibition is also held at this time, and the whole grounds are wrapped in vivid autumn leaves. It lives up to the name 'Eikando of the maples' as Kyoto's finest autumn foliage spot.
Annual Events
- November
Autumn Exhibition of Temple Treasures
Temple treasures usually closed to the public are specially opened during the autumn foliage season. As a famous spot for maples, it draws many worshippers.
- Monthly
Nembutsu Hoyo (Nembutsu Service)
As the head temple of the Zenrinji branch of the Seizan school of Jodo Buddhism, a monthly nembutsu service is held.
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