Daitoku-ji Korin-in: Autumn Special Opening

Before you go

Kohrin-in is a subtemple of Daitoku-ji, head temple of the Rinzai Daitoku-ji school, founded in the Taiei era (1521–1528). Its gate and main hall, including the karamon gate, are designated Important Cultural Properties. The temple has long ties with the Maeda family of Kaga, and its hojo garden was restored by the garden designer Nakane Kinsaku, known as the Little Kobori Enshu of the Showa era.

Kohrin-in was founded by Hatakeyama Yoshitsuna, lord of Noto Province, in the Taiei era and named after his Buddhist name. After it fell into decline, Maeda Toshiie funded the re-roofing of the main hall in 1581, and the temple later became the family temple of both the Hatakeyama and Maeda clans.

• The gate and main hall, with the karamon gate, are Important Cultural Properties kept as they were at founding.
• The hojo garden expresses the Penglai paradise with white sand and stone groups, restored by Nakane Kinsaku.
• The tea house Kankyo-tei is open for viewing.
• Individual visitors can walk in without a reservation during the special opening.

Getting there

80 Daitokuji-cho, Murasakino, Kita Ward, Kyoto. Take the Karasuma Subway Line to Kitaoji Station, then a city bus to Daitokuji-mae and walk about 5 minutes.

Booking

No reservation is needed for individuals during the special opening; just come along. Admission is ¥800 adults, ¥400 junior and high school students, ¥300 elementary pupils with a guardian, cash only. Groups of 10 or more must book in advance with Kyoto Shunju.

Sources Kyoto Shunju official temple page: Daitoku-ji Kohrin-in · Kyoto Shunju English site: how to visit Kohrin-in