Aikokuji

A famous temple with the oldest existing Buddhist hall, where a dragon dances in all directions

This famous temple was built by Ashikaga Yoshimitsu. It is known for the painting of a dragon on the ceiling of the oldest surviving lecture hall (usually closed to the public). The adjacent Jotenkaku Museum also displays art pieces from Shokoku-ji Temple and Kinkaku-ji Temple. It is said that if you clap your hands inside the hall, you can hear the roar of a dragon.

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  The current lecture hall was rebuilt in 1605 with a donation from Toyotomi Hideyori.

• CHECKPOINT

  The lecture hall, which is usually closed to the public, will be open to the public for special viewing in the spring and fall! In the spring of 2026, it is scheduled to run from March 25th to June 2nd. Please check the website for details.