Shodenji Temple(正伝寺) is said to have been founded by Zen master Togan Ean in the Kamakura period.In front of the Hojo, there is a white sand paved flat garden with satsuki (Japanese azalea) planted in the 7.5-3 style, and a karesansui (dry landscape) garden with a borrowed view of Mount Hiei in the back.
David Bowie, who visited the temple for a commercial filming, was moved to tears when he saw the karesansui (dry landscape garden) at Shodenji Temple.
The Hojo was relocated from the Onariden Hall of Fushimi Castle in 1653.The ceiling of the Hojo corridor is covered with the floor of Fushimi Castle when Mototada Torii was burned by his own sword, and is called the “Chi-tenjo“(bloody ceiling).
To get to Shodenji Temple from Kyoto Station, take the bus for about 42 minutes and walk about 15 minutes from the bus stop.
opening hours | 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. |
regular closing day | without a holiday |
entrance fee | Adults 500 yen, Junior high school students 300 yen, Elementary school students 200 yen |
bus stop | City bus Jinkoin-mae bus stop※Approx. 15 minutes walk from the nearest bus stop |
parking lot | Parking available(free)※15 private cars |
official site | Shodenji Temple |