Hosshō-ji, Buddhist temple ruins in Sakyo ward, Kyoto, Japan
Hosshō-ji is a former temple complex in the eastern part of Sakyō-ku, whose layout extends over a wide rectangle oriented north to south. The remains lie within zoo grounds, where stones and panels trace the earlier boundaries.
Emperor Shirakawa founded the complex in 1077 as the first link in a series of six imperial temples. Later, religious use ceased and the buildings gradually disappeared from the landscape.
The name comes from a Buddhist text and reflects the close bond between the imperial house and religious practice. Stone markers today recall a site where court ceremonies and monastic community came together.
The ruin site is located within Kyoto City Zoo, where information panels explain the location and former extent. Viewing takes place during zoo hours and requires no additional access.
An eight-story pagoda once stood on an artificial island within a pond and rose over 80 meters (260 feet) into the sky. Its unusual eight-sided form set it apart from most other tower structures of the era.
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