Kongouin Temple

Overview

Kongouin is a Shingon sect temple of the Toji school located in Maizuru City, Kyoto Prefecture. Nestled serenely in the mountains with Mount Kawahara behind it, its founding is traditionally attributed to 829 CE. Legend says it began with the enshrinement of Benzaiten from Koyasan. The founder was Takayake-shinno, the third prince of Emperor Heizei, who also became Crown Prince under Emperor Saga. However, he was stripped of his title following the incident of Empress Yakushi's coup, later becoming a disciple of Kukai and taking the name Shinnyo-ho-shinno. Kongouin was later restored by Emperor Shirakawa and Bifukumon-in. The three-storied pagoda was rebuilt during the Muromachi period. The current pagoda, also known as the Kongouin Toha (Kongouin Stupa), dates from this reconstruction. The principal image was originally Amitabha Tathagata, but later changed to Fudo Myoo. Kongouin's highlight is undoubtedly the "Tsurukame-no-niwa" (Crane and Turtle Garden), a beautiful landscape garden designed by Yūsai Hosokawa in the Edo period. As a pond garden of the strolling type, it offers beautiful scenery throughout the seasons. The autumn leaves are particularly stunning, earning the temple the name "Tango's Maple Temple." The three-storied pagoda, viewed from the main hall, is also an iconic symbol of Kongouin. Spend a peaceful moment in the quiet atmosphere of Kongouin. Kongouin is a tranquil space where history and nature harmonize. It's highly recommended for those seeking a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.