Place of worship • Yamada-67 Uji, Kyoto 611-0021, Japan
Nestled slightly away from the town of Uji, Keishin-in Temple stands as a hidden gem characterized by its rich nature and profound history. This temple, originally founded by the great Buddhist monk Kukai in 821, was later restored by the renowned monk Genshin from Mount Hiei.
The most attractive feature of Keishin-in is the variety of flowers that can be enjoyed throughout the year. In spring, Kawazu cherry blossoms and plum blossoms flourish, and in winter, wintersweet and daffodils beautifully adorn the tranquil grounds. The temple's chief priest, who has a deep affection for flowers, places plaques on various flowers, allowing visitors to deepen their botanical knowledge while strolling.
Within the main hall, there is a wooden statue of the Eleven-Faced Kannon said to be crafted by Kukai. Additionally, there is a wooden seated statue said to be carved by Genshin himself. Though these precious Buddhist statues are generally not open to the public, their very presence speaks volumes about the weighty history of Keishin-in.
Keishin-in also holds deep ties with the literary world. It's said that Genshin was the model for the character Yokawa Sozu in the Uji chapters of The Tale of Genji. There's also an anecdote that in the Showa era, writer Inagaki Taruho lived here for nine years. For literature fans, this spot is undeniably appealing.
Since it's situated slightly away from busy areas, the temple allows visitors to enjoy a serene and relaxed atmosphere. There is no admission fee, and the small temple can be circled in about five minutes, allowing a leisurely appreciation of its flowers and history.
Just a short distance from the bustling center of Uji lies Keishin-in, where you can meet tranquility, history, and the beauty of nature. When you visit Uji, make sure to drop by. The unique atmosphere created by seasonal flowers and a millennium of history will surely soothe your heart.
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