Kodaiji Temple

#SeptemberDestinations2025

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Basic Overview
• Name: Kodai-ji Temple (Kodai-ji / こうだいじ)
• Location: Higashiyama District, Kyoto City, Japan, near Gion and Yasaka Shrine.
• Sect: Kenninji School of the Rinzai Zen sect.
• Founded: 1606 by Nene (wife of Toyotomi Hideyoshi) to pray for the well-being of her late husband.
• Other Names: Also known as "Kodai-ji Makie-dera Temple" due to the extensive use of ornate makie techniques in the temple's architecture and artifacts.

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Historical Background
• Kodai-ji Temple was where Nene lived after her ordination as a nun, where she spent her later years as "Kodaiin Kogetsu-ni."
• Tokugawa Ieyasu also assisted in the temple's construction, showing his respect for the Toyotomi family. • The temple grounds house numerous important cultural assets, including a karasan gate, a mai-e (spiritual garden), and makie (painted paintings).

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Architectural and Landscape Highlights
1. Gardens: Designed by renowned landscape architect Kobori Enshu, the grounds feature a dry landscape garden and a pond-and-spring garden. The spring cherry blossoms and autumn maple leaves are particularly captivating.
2. Mausoleum (Goryoya): Enshrined in the temples of Toyotomi Hideyoshi and Nene, the temple's interior features exquisite makie (painted paintings).
3. Kaisando: One of Kodai-ji Temple's main buildings, it houses a significant Buddhist statue.
4. Teahouse: The temple grounds boast a teahouse inspired by Sen no Rikyu, showcasing the cultural atmosphere of Momoyama.
5. Bamboo Grove and Stone Steps: The grounds boast a beautiful bamboo forest trail and tranquil stone steps, both popular with visitors.

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Seasons and Events
• Spring: Cherry blossoms are in full bloom, and the nighttime illuminations attract crowds.
• Summer: Special nighttime visits are held to cool off. • Autumn: A famous spot for autumn leaves, especially the nighttime illuminations.
• Winter: A tranquil atmosphere with a garden full of snow.