Byōdō-ji, Buddhist temple in Shimogyō-ku, Japan.
Byōdō-ji is a Buddhist temple in Kyoto with traditional architecture, featuring a main hall that houses multiple sacred statues and religious objects. Wooden sculptures of Yakushi Nyorai, Shaka Nyorai, and Nyoirin Kannon stand within its interior spaces as the spiritual focus of the place.
The temple was founded in 1003 when a statue of Yakushi Nyorai unexpectedly appeared at the estate of TACHIBANA no Yukihira. This miraculous event prompted the establishment of the temple and set the foundation for its long history.
The temple belongs to the Shingon-shū Chizan-ha Buddhist sect and serves as the seventh station on the Kyoto 13 Buddha Pilgrimage route. This role connects it to a living spiritual journey that many followers continue to undertake today.
The site is accessible on foot and allows visitors to view the interior spaces with the religious artworks. The temple is open on most days, but offers limited covered outdoor areas, so weather and season shape the experience.
The temple received its name from Emperor Takakura in 1717, reflecting its importance through imperial recognition. This connection to the imperial court distinguishes it from many other temples in the region.
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