Shōbō-in

Shōbō-in is a Buddhist temple in Taitō-ku featuring a dry landscape garden where stones are arranged to create patterns resembling different animals. Large stones gathered from various regions of Japan form the distinctive composition of this space.

Founded in 754, the temple served as an important training center for Buddhist monks under the Shingon school, specifically within the To-ji tradition. Its founder, Chii Daitoku, was a disciple of Ganjin, connecting it to major Buddhist teachers of that era.

The main statue of Senju Kannon with a thousand arms represents Buddhist ideals of compassion and mercy, serving as the central focus of devotion. Visitors encounter this representation directly and understand how it expresses spiritual values through its form.

The temple is open during daytime hours and accessible on foot to explore its grounds. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as you will spend time moving through the garden areas.

The garden transforms with the seasons, revealing different aspects of its stone arrangements based on light, weather, and time of year. This constant change means each visit offers a fresh experience as interpretations of the animal-like patterns shift.