Bishamon-do Shorinji is a sub-temple of Tofukuji, head temple of the Rinzai Sect, Kyoto.
Visit our ancient temple, founded in 1550.
General Admission
Reservations
The main statue, Bishamonten, is open for special viewing at New Year, and in the spring and fall. Groups of more than 8 people can view it by appointment at other times throughout the year.
Admission
1 person
Adults 800 yen (incl. temple brochure)
Students (6–18 years) 500 yen (Groups of more than 8 people only)
Details
Visitors can view the main hall, Bishamon-do, and the reception hall.
* No photography allowed inside the buildings. Photography allowed in the gardens.
* Special admission available depending on the season.
Bishamonten (Temple treasure)
The standing statue of Bishamonten Heian Period (794–1159), Height 145.7cm
One of the Four Heavenly Kings in Buddhism, Bishamonten has been revered as the God of Wealth and Victory since ancient times. This statue was found during the Edo Period (1603–1868) concealed above the ceiling of Tofukuji’s main hall, and it was subsequently ensconced in Shorinji. Worshipers pray to Bishamonten for prosperity, triumph, and protection against evil.
* This Buddhist statue is ordinarily closed to the public, except at New Year, and in spring (April during cherry blossom season) and fall (mid-November to early December).
The standing statue of Kisshoten
by Shimizu Ryukei, (1659–1732), Height 104.4cm
Kisshoten is revered as the Goddess of Beauty and Prosperity, and is the wife of Bishamonten. Shorinji’s statue is particularly worshipped for beauty, fortune, and matchmaking. The maple trees in front of Bishamon-do are so beautiful Kisshoten is thought to reside within, so they are referred to as Kissho Maples.
The standing statue of Zennishi Doji
by Shimizu Ryukei, (1659–1732), Height 96.5cm
Zennishi Doji is the son of Bishamonten and Kisshoten. Since Shorinji possesses all three statues, worshippers pray to all three as the gods of family harmony, fertility, childrearing, and matrimonial happiness.
Large Sliding-Door Painting of Tigers
Painted by Bunpo Araragi (1891–1970)
Nihonga artist Bunpo Araragi painted this large sliding-door painting in Bishamon-do in 1926. The tiger roaring into the wind is said to represent Bishamonten; and the two intimate tigers, his wife and son, Kisshoten and Zennishi Doji.
Bishamonten Mandala
by Gessho Tamura (Soryu) (1846–1918)
The Bishamonten Mandala is a rare variety of mandala, because Bishamonten is depicted surrounded by his family and relations, and messengers in the hope he will bestow divine protection and miracles.
