Sanjusangendo Temple

Sanjusangendo (三十三間堂), officially known as Rengeo-in Temple, is a Buddhist temple nestled in the Higashiyama district of Kyoto, Japan. Renowned for its immense length and breathtaking collection of sculptures, Sanjusangendo stands as a testament to Japanese artistry and religious devotion.

The heart of Sanjusangendo lies in its main hall, known as the hondō, a National Treasure of Japan. Stretching an impressive 118 meters in length, the hondō houses an awe-inspiring array of 1,001 statues of Kannon, the bodhisattva of compassion. These statues, each meticulously crafted in the Heian to Kamakura periods, stand in unwavering serenity, exuding an aura of divine grace.

Amidst the sea of Kannon statues, a central gilded statue, also designated a National Treasure, takes center stage. Larger and more ornate than its companions, this seated figure embodies the essence of Kannon’s compassion. Flanking this central image are 28 attendant statues, each adding to the rich tapestry of Sanjusangendo’s sculptural artistr

Beyond the captivating Kannon figures, Sanjusangendo treasures an array of statues, including Fūjin and Raijin, the gods of wind and thunder, and a magnificent wooden statue of Senju Kannon, a manifestation of Kannon with 1,000 arms. These exquisite creations further enrich the temple’s artistic heritage.

Sanjusangendo’s significance extends beyond its artistic splendor. For centuries, the temple has been a beacon of religious devotion drawing pilgrims and worshippers from far and wide. The serene atmosphere, the sacred presence of Kannon, and the beauty of the sculptures foster an environment conducive to spiritual reflection.

Getting there

From Kyoto Station to Sanjusangendo Temple:

Bus	Kyoto Station ↓ Bus Number 86, 88, 206 and 208 ↓ 9 minutes (4 stops) Sanjusangendo Temple (Cost 230 yen)
Walk	About 20 minutes (1.4 km)

Details

Hours	8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Admission	Adults: 600 yen Children: 400 yen
Phone	+81 75-561-0467
Address	657 Sanjusangendo Mawaricho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0941, Japan
Official Website	https://www.sanjusangendo.jp/