Sagano

Adashino Nenbutsu Temple

Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple_vol.22_Temple & Shrine Special

A temple famous for its Sento Kuyo ceremony, where many abandoned dead are mourned

Adashino Nembutsu-ji Temple was founded when Kukai (Kobo Daishi) founded Gochisan Nyorai-ji Temple. It later became a Nembutsu training center for the monk Honen Shonin, and took its current name. "Adashino" is written as "Kaen", and "Adashi" means fleeting and empty. "Ka" contains the wish to be reborn in this world and to travel to and from paradise. The Sento Kuyo, in which candles are lit to offer prayers to the thousands of abandoned Buddhas enshrined on the riverbank of Saiin within the temple grounds, is known as a Kyoto summer tradition.

The photo shows the riverbed in Sai-in. The area is filled with 13-story pagodas, stone Buddha statues, and stone towers. These are the graves of people who were buried in the area in the past, but after hundreds of years they have become abandoned Buddhas.

Bamboo forest
We also recommend taking a stroll through the bamboo forest swaying in the breeze. The view of the greenery will refresh your mind. Inside the temple, you can enjoy cherry blossoms in spring and autumn leaves in autumn.
Thousand Lights Memorial Service
The Sento Kuyo ceremony held in August. The Atago Old Road Lantern Festival, where lanterns are lined up along the road, is also a must-see.
bell
A bell quietly stands within the temple grounds. Every morning at 11:30, the "tea kettle bell" rings to let the surrounding area know the time.
Goshuincho (stamp book) 1,500 yen each
This goshuincho (stamp book) depicts the changing of the seasons. There are three types available, including green maple leaves and red maple leaves. The cover also features stone Buddhas and stone pagodas.
[Annual event]
●24th of every month (except August) "Mizuko Memorial Service"
The service will be held in the main hall from 14 p.m. Memorial services are accepted every day.
[Visiting notes]
The Sagano area is a perfect place for a stroll, with beautiful scenery. Enjoy the atmospheric scenery surrounded by nature, such as the approach to the temple that leads to the riverbank of Saiin.