Kennin-ji, the headquarters of the Kennin-ji branch of Rinzai Zen, was founded in 1202 by the priest Eisai (1141-1215). Eisai is well known for introducing the Zen sect and the tradition of tea drinking into Japan from China.Most existent buildings in Kennin-ji were built after the Edo period (1600-1867). That is because of the Ônin War, in which many buildings in Kyoto were lost. But Messenger's Gate, built in the Kamakura period (1192-1333), was left after the battles, permanently scarred by stray arrows, and is a rare example within the city. In addition, the hôjô was built in the Muromachi period (1392-1573). Both structures are Important Cultural Properties.Because Kennin-ji is a head temple, there is a large meditation hall for monks, who must train in zazen there for several years to become priests.
To the south of the hôjô, there is a dry garden, which is in the rock and white gravel style often found in Zen temples. The dry garden of Kennin-ji is named "Daiô-en", which means grand garden. It is said that the pattern of white gravel symbolizes a field of clouds. But the priest says that he would like you to see it however you wish. What can you imagine?
The dharma hall is where the priest preaches about doctrines. "Nenge-dô" is the name for the dharma hall of Kennin-ji, which means "pick a flower", and derives from the story, "Nenge-Mishô": One day, when Buddha preached, he picked up a flower and showed it to everyone. Anyone could make it out, but only the priest Kayô (one of Buddha's disciples) smiled. Then the Buddha's true doctrine had come down to him! This story shows the importance of communicating heart to heart.
On the ceiling of this hall, we can see "Twin Dragons", painted in 2002 by the contemporary artist Koizumi Junsaku to commemorate the 800th anniversary of the temple's founding. Usually, dragon pictures on the ceilings of dharma halls are painted in a circle. But "Twin Dragons" covers the whole ceiling, and the total area of this picture is about 175 square meters. The reason is that the abbot of Kennin-ji requested Mr. Koizumi to make dragons rampage through the ceiling.
Take city bus 206 from the D2 bus stop in Kyoto Station. Get off at the "Higashiyama-Yasui" bus stop, and walk west along Yasui Street (about 7 min.).
Get off at Shijo Station. Walk east along Shijo Street, and turn to your right at Hanami-Koji Street (about 8 min.).
Get off at Kawaramachi Station. Walk east over the bridge to Hanami-Koji Street and turn right (about 10 min.).
I just had the honor of visiting the Kennin-ji temple and shrine. Is there a book with pictures of the art at the site including the screens and the Koizumi ceiling? If so, please explain how i can purchase it and have it shipped to Vermont, USA. With thanks.
Copyright © Kyoto University of Foreign Studies. All Rights Reserved.