Festival & seasonal event in Kyoto

Autumn Special Viewing at Shorinji Temple

See a special display of the standing statue of Bishamonten, the guardian deity protecting Tofukuji's northeast direction. Other highlights include the main hall relocated from the Konoe family estate and the autumn foliage.

Dates

Nov 14 (Sat) – Dec 6 (Sun)

Hours

10:00 – 16:00

Venue

Shorinji Temple, a Subtemple of Tofukuji

Nearest station

Tofukuji

Admission

¥800

About this event

A rarely displayed Buddhist statue traditionally guarding Tofukuji is revealed during the autumn opening. Shorinji is also known as the temple of Tofukuji's Bishamonten. Its principal statue, believed to date from the Heian period, represents a deity who protects the northern direction and Buddhist teachings. The main hall was relocated from the former residence of the aristocratic Konoe family. Autumn foliage and traditional Japanese parasols decorate the grounds. The visit introduces the protective traditions of Buddhist temples alongside Kyoto's architectural history.

Highlights

• Rare viewing of a Bishamonten statue attributed to the Heian period
• A temple traditionally protecting Tofukuji's vulnerable direction
• A main hall relocated from the Konoe family's residence
• Autumn foliage and Japanese parasols in the grounds

Good for

For visitors interested in Buddhist sculpture, temple architecture, Kyoto history and autumn foliage.

Good to know before you go

• The principal Bishamonten statue is specially displayed.
• The temple is accessible on foot from Tofukuji Station on the JR and Keihan lines.

Pochikichi's story corner

Why does Bishamonten protect the northern side of Tofukuji?

Shorinji is a subtemple of Tofukuji dedicated to Bishamonten. In Buddhist tradition, Bishamonten protects the north. Shorinji occupies a direction regarded as spiritually vulnerable and has served as a guardian of the temple complex and Buddhist teachings.

Its principal Bishamonten statue is believed to date from the Heian period. Normally concealed from public view, it is revealed during special openings. Its significance lies not only in its appearance but also in its protective role.

The main hall has an unusual architectural history. It was relocated from the grand entrance of the Konoe family's aristocratic residence. This connection preserves part of Kyoto's courtly architectural heritage within a Buddhist temple.

Autumn leaves and parasols bring color to the grounds, but the setting also reflects Buddhist beliefs about protection and direction. That is why you should pay particular attention to the Bishamonten statue that has traditionally guarded Tofukuji.

Sources: Kyoto City Official Tourism Guide: Shorinji Autumn Opening (Japanese), Shorinji Official Access Guide (Japanese)

FAQ

What is Autumn Special Viewing at Shorinji Temple?

A rarely displayed Buddhist statue traditionally guarding Tofukuji is revealed during the autumn opening. Shorinji is also known as the temple of Tofukuji's Bishamonten. Its principal statue, believed to date from the Heian period, represents a deity who protects the northern direction and Buddhist teachings. The main hall was relocated from the former residence of the aristocratic Konoe family. Autumn foliage and traditional Japanese parasols decorate the grounds. The visit introduces the protective traditions of Buddhist temples alongside Kyoto's architectural history.

When is Autumn Special Viewing at Shorinji Temple?

From Nov 14 (Sat) to Dec 6 (Sun), 2026.

What are the opening hours?

10:00 – 16:00

How much does it cost?

¥800

Where is it and what is the nearest station?

Shorinji Temple, a Subtemple of Tofukuji. The nearest station is Tofukuji.

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