Map
An old temple in Katsuragi, Nara Prefecture, unusual in being jointly maintained by Koyasan Shingon and Jodo sects. Its principal object of worship is the national treasure 'Taima Mandala,' known by the legend that Princess Chujo wove it in a single night. It is known as the only temple where both the east and west pagodas survive as three-story pagodas from the Nara period, forming a twin-pagoda temple layout.
Temple Info
- Sect
- Koyasan Shingon school and Jodo
- Principal Image
- Taima Mandala (tapestry-weave, National Treasure)
- Founded
- Said to date from Suiko 20 (612)
History & Origins
The temple is said to have been founded in 612 (the 20th year of Empress Suiko) and was originally the clan temple of the Taima clan. In the Nara period the seven-hall compound was developed and the east and west three-story pagodas were built. The legend that Princess Chujo wove the Pure Land illustration (Taima Mandala) from lotus threads in a single night is widely told, and the temple holds an important historical place as a sacred site of Pure Land faith.
Highlights
The east and west pagodas (both national treasures), built in the Nara period, are of high cultural value as the oldest surviving three-story pagodas in Japan. Every spring many peonies bloom in the grounds, and it is affectionately known as the 'Peony Temple.' Sites related to the Princess Chujo legend and the gardens of the various sub-temples are also worth seeing.
Visitor Guide
About a 15-minute walk from Taimadera Station on the Kintetsu Minami-Osaka Line. Visiting hours are 9:00 to 17:00. Admission to the three halls of the compound is 1,000 yen for adults and 500 yen for elementary school students, and Nakanobo is 500 yen for adults and 250 yen for elementary school students. Allow about 90 to 120 minutes.
Best Season
The peonies in April and May are the greatest highlight, with colorful peonies competing in bloom throughout the grounds. The Rengee festival in July is also known as a summer tradition.
Annual Events
- April
Nerikuyo Eshiki (Shoju Raigo Nerikuyo, Procession Ceremony of the Welcoming Saints)
A large-scale religious event held on the anniversary of the death of Princess Chujo (April 14), which recreates the scene of the Twenty-five Bodhisattvas descending to welcome the dying.
- July
Taima Mandala Rengee (July 23)
A service associated with the lotus flowers depicted in the Taima Mandala. Shika Hoyo, Noh and wasan hymns, among others, are dedicated.
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