Fukuchiin Temple

Overview

Fukuchiin Temple is a Shingon-ritsu Buddhist temple located in Fukuchiin-cho, Nara City, Nara Prefecture. Its mountain name is Seirei-zan. The principal deity is Jizo Bosatsu, and the main hall, rebuilt in the Kamakura period, is designated as an Important Cultural Property. The impressive large Jizo Bosatsu statue housed within is a truly awe-inspiring sight. According to temple tradition, the temple's origins lie in Kiyomizu-dera Temple, founded in 736 AD by Genbo at the behest of Emperor Shomu. After falling into disrepair, it was revived in 1254 AD by Jisshin of Kofuku-ji Daijo-in, who repurposed an existing sutra repository as the main hall. It was later renamed Fukuchiin Temple. Further reconstruction was undertaken by Eizon at a later date. The principal image of Jizo Bosatsu, also known as Jizo Daibutsu (Great Jizo Buddha), is a large statue mentioned in the Shasekishu as a miraculously efficacious "spiritual Buddha." In addition to the main hall, the temple grounds include a Shogun Jizo Hall, a group of stone pagodas, a kuri (temple kitchen), and a mountain gate. The majority of the stone pagodas are Kamakura-period examples depicting five-storied pagodas on stone tablets. Fukuchiin Temple is conveniently located in the eastern part of Nara City. It's highly recommended for those seeking a tranquil escape steeped in history. Many historical structures, including Juurin-in Temple and Gango-ji Temple, are located nearby and worth exploring.