Sai-ji, Buddhist temple ruins in Minami-ku, Kyoto, Japan
Sai-ji temple occupied a grand location on the western side of Suzaku Avenue, forming a symmetrical arrangement with Tō-ji temple in ancient Heian-kyo.
Founded in 796 after the capital moved to Heian-kyo, Sai-ji served as one of only three Buddhist institutions permitted within the capital by Emperor Kanmu.
The temple stood as a symbol of controlled Buddhist influence in early Kyoto, operating alongside Tō-ji temple to mark the southern entrance of the capital.
The temple site is now marked by a small park located at the intersection of Kujo street and Senbon street in Minami-ku district.
The temple faced complete destruction twice, burning down in 990 and 1233, leading to its permanent abandonment while its eastern counterpart Tō-ji survived.
Location: Heian-kyō
Inception: 797
Fee: No
GPS coordinates: 34.98072,135.73815
Latest update: May 12, 2025 18:48
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