Experience Autumn Foliage and a Fusion of Traditional and Contemporary Art at Zuishin-in, the Temple Associated with Ono no Komachi

2024年11月17日

Located in the eastern part of Kyoto, in the Yamashina ward, Zuishin-in (隨心院) remains a hidden gem for many international visitors.
This temple, known for its association with the renowned Heian period poet Ono no Komachi, is a place where you can experience the profound allure of Japan’s history and culture.

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History and Culture

Founded in 991, Zuishin-in is a Shingon Buddhist temple with a rich history that spans centuries, amassing many cultural treasures along the way. The temple houses numerous important cultural properties, including the main deity Nyoirin Kannon Bosatsu and several invaluable statues and artworks. The legacy of Ono no Komachi lives on in the temple, with various legends and stories woven into the fabric of its architecture, offering visitors a glimpse into the world of Japan’s classical literature and poetry.

Access and Information

Location: 35 Onogoryo-cho, Yamashina-ku, Kyoto City

Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM (may vary seasonally or for special events)

Admission Fee: Adults ¥1,000, Middle and High School Students ¥500 (fees may differ for special exhibitions or night viewings)

You can access Zuishin-in by taxi in about 10 minutes from JR Biwako Line’s Yamashina Station or Keihan Line’s Keihan Yamashina Station, or walk about 5 minutes from Ono Station on the Kyoto Subway Tozai Line.

The Vibrant Plum Scented Komachi Screens

The Noh Room of Zuishin-in features a striking work called “The Vibrant Plum Scented Komachi Screens” (極彩色梅匂小町絵図).
This vivid painted screen was created by the Kyoto art unit “Daruma Shoten” in 2009 and dedicated to the temple. It brings to life the Heian period through scenes from Ono no Komachi’s life.

Background and Highlights

•Main Colors: Dominantly colored in a bright pinkish hue known as hanesuiro.

•Content: The four panels depict Ono no Komachi’s life, from birth and celebrations to everyday life and her later wandering years.

•Detail: Legends and myths about Ono no Komachi are illustrated across the panels, capturing her life’s story up to its end.

By carefully observing each scene, you can imagine the life of Ono no Komachi and the ambiance of the Heian period. The screens also capture scenes from Zuishin-in’s spring “Hanezu Dance,” symbolizing a fusion of traditional temple culture and contemporary art, making this work a unique attraction of Zuishin-in.

Autumn Foliage Highlights

Zuishin-in’s autumn foliage is at its best from mid-November to early December each year.
The temple grounds are planted with numerous maples, momiji, and ginkgo trees, which display vibrant red and golden autumn colors.

The View from the Noh Room

The moss garden and maple trees around the main hall present a beautiful contrast, offering one of Zuishin-in’s most iconic views.

The Great Ginkgo Tree

The large ginkgo tree near the temple’s Yakuimon gate and parking area turns a stunning golden yellow around mid-November, creating a scenic spot with fallen ginkgo leaves that is popular with visitors.

Conclusion

Although Zuishin-in is located a bit away from Kyoto’s main tourist spots, its quiet and serene atmosphere offers a peaceful retreat. The historical significance of its association with Ono no Komachi and the beautiful autumn foliage captivate all who visit.