Chishaku-in Temple

Chishaku-in Temple is the head temple of the Chisan branch of Shingon Buddhism and one of Kyoto’s most important centers of Esoteric Buddhist practice. Located near Sanjusangen-do and the Kyoto National Museum, the temple is celebrated for its magnificent gardens, historic halls, and an outstanding collection of National Treasure paintings by the Hasegawa school.

Despite its central location, Chishaku-in offers a peaceful atmosphere where visitors can appreciate Buddhist architecture, refined landscape design, and some of Japan’s greatest masterpieces of Momoyama-period art.

History

The origins of Chishaku-in trace back to the late sixteenth century, when the monk Genyu relocated his community from Negoro-ji Temple in present-day Wakayama Prefecture. In 1601, Tokugawa Ieyasu granted the former site of Shounzen-ji, a temple established by Toyotomi Hideyoshi in memory of his young son Tsurumatsu, allowing Chishaku-in to establish its present headquarters.

Today, the temple is especially renowned for its priceless sliding-door paintings created by Hasegawa Tohaku, his son Hasegawa Kyuzo, and other members of the Hasegawa school. These masterpieces, now designated National Treasures, are preserved and displayed in the temple’s treasure museum and rank among the finest surviving works of Momoyama-period painting.

Highlights

National Treasure Paintings

Admire masterpieces by Hasegawa Tohaku and Hasegawa Kyuzo, including the celebrated Maple and Cherry Blossom paintings.

Scenic Garden

Relax in the elegant dry landscape garden inspired by the famous scenery of Mount Lu in China.

Main Hall (Kondo)

Visit the grand hall of the Chisan branch of Shingon Buddhism and experience the atmosphere of Esoteric Buddhist worship.

Treasure Museum

Discover National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties that showcase the brilliance of Japanese religious art.

Seasonal Beauty

Enjoy cherry blossoms, hydrangeas, lush greenery, and colorful autumn leaves throughout the year.

Visit Tips

Be sure to visit the Treasure Museum, where the original Hasegawa school paintings can be appreciated up close. These masterpieces are among the most important works in the history of Japanese painting and are a highlight for art lovers.

The garden is particularly peaceful in the morning, while the temple is easily combined with nearby Sanjusangen-do, Kyoto National Museum, and Toyokuni Shrine for a rewarding day exploring Kyoto’s history, art, and Buddhism.