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{{Short description|Shingon Buddhist temple in Kyoto, Japan}}
{{About|a Buddhist temple in Kyoto, Japan||Tōji (disambiguation){{!}}Tōji}}
{{About|a Buddhist temple in Kyoto, Japan||Tōji (disambiguation){{!}}Tōji}}
{{Infobox religious building
{{Infobox religious building
Line 19: Line 20:
| website = http://www.toji.or.jp/
| website = http://www.toji.or.jp/
| founded_by = [[Emperor Kanmu]]
| founded_by = [[Emperor Kanmu]]
| year_completed = 796
|established=796| year_completed = 1644 (Reconstruction)
}}
}}


{{Nihongo|'''Tō-ji'''|東寺|''Tō-ji''}} is a [[Shingon]] [[Buddhist]] temple in the [[Minami-ku, Kyoto|Minami-ku]] ward of [[Kyoto]], [[Japan]].
{{Nihongo|'''Tō-ji Temple'''|東寺|Tō-ji|"East Temple"}}, also known as {{Nihongo|'''Kyō-ō-gokoku-ji'''|教王護国寺|''The Temple for the Defense of the Nation by Means of the King of Doctrines''}} is a [[Shingon]] [[Buddhist]] temple in the [[Minami-ku, Kyoto|Minami-ku]] ward of [[Kyoto]], [[Japan]].


Founded in 796, it was one of the only three Buddhist temples allowed in the city at the time it became the capital of Japan. As such it has a long history, housing treasures and documents from the early [[Heian period]] and the [[Tang dynasty]], and with buildings in its complex covering the [[Kamakura period|Kamakura]], [[Muromachi period|Muromachi]], [[Momoyama period|Momoyama]], and [[Edo period|Edo periods]]. Five of these buildings have been designated [[National Treasures of Japan|National Treasures]] in two different categories: the Lotus Flower Gate (''rengemon''), the Miei Hall (''mieidō''), the Golden Hall (''kondō'') and the five-storied Pagoda (''gojūnotō'') ([[List of National Treasures of Japan (temples)|temple buildings]]) and the Kanchiin Guest Hall (''kanchiin kyakuden'') ([[List of National Treasures of Japan (residences)|residences]]).
Founded in 796, it was one of the only three Buddhist temples allowed in the city at the time it became the capital of Japan. As such it has a long history, housing treasures and documents from the early [[Heian period]] and the [[Tang dynasty]], and with buildings in its complex covering the [[Kamakura period|Kamakura]], [[Muromachi period|Muromachi]], [[Momoyama period|Momoyama]], and [[Edo period]]s. Five of these buildings have been designated [[National Treasures of Japan|National Treasures]] in two different categories: the Lotus Flower Gate (''rengemon''), the Miei Hall (''mieidō''), the Golden Hall (''kondō'') and the five-storied Pagoda (''gojūnotō'') ([[List of National Treasures of Japan (temples)|temple buildings]]) and the Kanchiin Guest Hall (''kanchiin kyakuden'') ([[List of National Treasures of Japan (residences)|residences]]).


Tō-ji was designated a [[UNESCO]] [[World Heritage Site]] in 1994, as part of the [[Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto]].
Tō-ji was designated a [[UNESCO]] [[World Heritage Site]] in 1994, as part of the [[Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto]].


==History==
==History==
⚫
Tō-ji was founded in the early [[Heian period]].<ref>Ponsonby-Fane, Richard. (1956). ''Kyoto: The Old Capital of Japan, 794–1869'', p. 111.</ref> The temple dates from 796, two years after the capital moved to [[Heian-kyō]]. Together with its partner Sai-ji, and the temple [[Shingon-in]] (located in the [[Heian Palace]]), it was one of only three Buddhist temples allowed in the capital at the time and is the only of the three to survive to the present.


⚫
It once had a partner, [[Sai-ji]] (West Temple) and, together, they stood alongside the [[Rajōmon|Rashomon]], the gate to the Heian capital. It was formerly known as {{Nihongo|'''Kyō-ō-gokoku-ji'''|教王護国寺|''The Temple for the Defense of the Nation by Means of the King of Doctrines''}}<ref>{{cite book | last = Hakeda | first = Yoshito S. | title = Kūkai and His Major Works | publisher = Columbia University Press | year = 1972 | isbn = 0-231-05933-7 | page = 7}}</ref> which indicates that it previously functioned as a temple providing protection for the nation. Tō-ji is located in [[Minami-ku, Kyoto|Minami-ku]] near the intersection of [[Ōmiya Street]] and Kujō Street, southwest of [[Kyōto Station]].
⚫
Tō-ji was founded in the early [[Heian period]].<ref>Ponsonby-Fane, Richard. (1956). ''Kyoto: The Old Capital of Japan, 794–1869'', p. 111.</ref> The temple dates from 796, two years after the capital moved to [[Heian-kyō]]. Together with its partner Sai-ji, and the temple [[Shingon-in]] (located in the [[Heian Palace]]), it was one of only three Buddhist temples allowed in the capital at the time, and is the only of the three to survive to the present.


⚫
Tō-ji is often associated with Kōbō Daishi ([[Kūkai]]). Though Tō-ji began to decline at the end of the Heian period, it came back into the spotlight with the rise of Daishi Shinko (worshipping of Kōbō Daishi) in the Kamakura period. The well-known Buddhist priest was put in charge of Tō-ji in 823 by order of [[Emperor Saga]]. The temple's principal image is of [[Bhaisajyaguru|Yakushi]] Nyorai, the Medicine Buddha. Many religious services for Daishi are held in {{Nihongo|Miei-dō|御影堂}} (or {{Nihongo|Daishi-dō|大師堂}}, in another name), the residence of Kōbō Daishi.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.toji.or.jp/mieidou.shtml |title=東寺 - 御影堂 〈大師堂〉 / Mieido House (Daishido House) |website=www.toji.or.jp |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090619211021/http://www.toji.or.jp/mieidou.shtml |archive-date=2009-06-19}} </ref> In 1586, the temple was seriously damaged by an [[1586 Tenshō earthquake|earthquake]].<ref name="Utsu01">{{cite book |last1=Utsu |first1=Tokuji |last2=Shima |first2=Etsuzo |last3=Yoshii |first3=Toshiyoshi |last4=Yamashina |first4=Kenichiro |title=地震の事典 |date=2001 |publisher=Asakura Shoten}}</ref>
⚫
It once had a partner, [[Sai-ji]] (West Temple) and, together, they stood alongside the [[Rajōmon|Rashomon]], gate to the Heian capital. It was formerly known as {{Nihongo|'''Kyō-ō-gokoku-ji'''|教王護国寺|''The Temple for the Defense of the Nation by Means of the King of Doctrines''}}<ref>{{cite book | last = Hakeda | first = Yoshito S. | title = Kūkai and His Major Works | publisher = Columbia University Press | year = 1972 | isbn = 0-231-05933-7 | page = 7}}</ref> which indicates that it previously functioned as a temple providing protection for the nation. Tō-ji is located in [[Minami-ku, Kyoto|Minami-ku]] near the intersection of [[Ōmiya Street]] and Kujō Street, southwest of [[Kyōto Station]].

⚫
Tō-ji is often associated with Kōbō Daishi ([[Kūkai]]). Though Tō-ji began to decline in the end of Heian period, it came back into the spotlight with the rise of Daishi Shinko (worshipping of Kōbō Daishi) in the Kamakura period. The well-known Buddhist priest was put in charge of Tō-ji in 823 by order of [[Emperor Saga]]. The temple's principal image is of [[Bhaisajyaguru|Yakushi]] Nyorai, the Medicine Buddha.　Many religious services for Daishi are held in {{Nihongo|Miei-dō|御影堂}} (or {{Nihongo|Daishi-dō|大師堂}}, in another name), the residence of Kōbō Daishi.<ref>http://www.toji.or.jp/mieidou.shtml</ref>


==Architecture==
==Architecture==
⚫
[[File:Toji_-_Five-storied_Pagoda.JPG|thumb|left|''Five-storied Pagoda'' (National Treasure)]]
⚫
[[File:Kyoto To-ji Pagode 17.jpg|thumb|right|Close-up of the ''Five-storied Pagoda'']]
[[File:Five roofs of Toji-ji, Kyoto.jpg|thumb|Five roofs of Toji-ji, Kyoto]]


⚫
===Five-storey Pagoda===
⚫
[[File:Toji-temple-kyoto.jpg|thumb|left|''Five-storied Pagoda'' (National Treasure)]]
⚫
[[File:Kyoto To-ji Pagode 17.jpg|thumb|right|close-up of the ''Five-storied Pagoda'']]
⚫
===Five-story Pagoda===

The {{nihongo|five-storied Pagoda|五重塔|gojūnotō}} of Tō-ji dates from 1643 ([[Edo period]]), when it was rebuilt by order of the third [[Tokugawa shogunate|Tokugawa]] Shōgun, [[Tokugawa Iemitsu|Iemitsu]]. The original pagoda was built in the 9th century, but it was destroyed and rebuilt four times before reaching its current state. It was designated a [[List of National Treasures of Japan (temples)|National Treasure]] in 1952.<ref name="Bunka Goeido">{{cite web |url=https://kunishitei.bunka.go.jp/heritage/detail/102/1834 |title=教王護国寺五重塔 |author=<!--Not stated--> |publisher=Cultural Heritage Online |access-date=2019-06-21 |language=ja}}</ref>
The {{nihongo|five-storied Pagoda|五重塔|gojūnotō}} of Tō-ji dates from 1643 ([[Edo period]]), when it was rebuilt by order of the third [[Tokugawa shogunate|Tokugawa]] Shōgun, [[Tokugawa Iemitsu|Iemitsu]]. The original pagoda was built in the 9th century, but it was destroyed and rebuilt four times before reaching its current state. It was designated a [[List of National Treasures of Japan (temples)|National Treasure]] in 1952.<ref name="Bunka Goeido">{{cite web |url=https://kunishitei.bunka.go.jp/heritage/detail/102/1834 |title=教王護国寺五重塔 |author=<!--Not stated--> |publisher=Cultural Heritage Online |access-date=2019-06-21 |language=ja}}</ref>


The pagoda stands {{convert|54.8|m|ft|abbr=off|sp=us}} high, and is the tallest [[wood]]en tower in Japan. Entrance into the pagoda itself is permitted only on special occasions, but it is usually open and the interior can be seen from the outside. It houses relics, sculptures and paintings. At ground level there are statues of four Buddhas facing different directions.<ref name="To-ji Official Website">{{cite web |url=https://toji.or.jp/en/inside/index.html |title=Inside of To-ji |author=<!--Not stated--> |publisher=To-ji |access-date=2019-06-21 }}</ref>
The pagoda stands {{convert|54.8|m|ft|abbr=off|sp=us}} high, and is the tallest [[wood]]en tower in Japan. Entrance into the pagoda itself is permitted only on special occasions, but it is usually open and the interior can be seen from the outside. It houses relics, sculptures, and paintings. At ground level, there are statues of four Buddhas facing different directions.<ref name="To-ji Official Website">{{cite web |url=https://toji.or.jp/en/inside/index.html |title=Inside of To-ji |author=<!--Not stated--> |publisher=To-ji |access-date=2019-06-21 }}</ref>


===Kondo===
===Kondo===
⚫
The ''Kondo'' or Golden Hall is the main hall of the temple and contains a statue of Yakushi from 1603.

⚫
The ''Kondo'' or Golden Hall is the main hall of the temple, and contains a statue of Yakushi from 1603.


===Miedo===
===Miedo===
⚫
The Miedo is dedicated to Kobo Daishi, also called Kukai, the temple's founder. It stands on the location of his original residence. The hall is opened on the 21st of each month when a memorial service is held for Kukai.

⚫
The Miedo is dedicated to Kobo Daishi, also called Kukai, the temple's founder. It stands on the location of his original residence. The hall is opened on the 21st of each month, when a memorial service is held for Kukai.


===Temple grounds===
===Temple grounds===

The grounds feature a garden and pond, in which turtles and koi swim. The grounds also house an academically rigorous private school, Rakunan, from which many students are sent to elite universities.
The grounds feature a garden and pond, in which turtles and koi swim. The grounds also house an academically rigorous private school, Rakunan, from which many students are sent to elite universities.


===Architectural Analysis===
===Architectural Analysis===
⚫
Tō-ji was rebuilt in the early [[Edo Period]], verging on the [[Kamakura Period]].<ref name="auto">{{Cite web|url=https://www.britannica.com/art/Japanese-architecture|title=Japanese architecture &#124; History, Characteristics, & Facts|website=Encyclopedia Britannica}}</ref> During this rebuild, Tō-ji was dedicated to be a Shingon [[Buddhist temple]] ([[Shingon]], a form of [[Vajrayana Buddhism]], was brought to [[Japan]] by [[Kūkai]], a priest in 806).<ref>{{cite book | last = Ryuichi | first = Abe | title = The Weaving of Mantra: Kukai and the Construction of Esoteric Buddhist Discourse | publisher = Columbia University Press | year = 1999 | isbn = 0-231-11286-6 }}</ref> These temples were typically built in the mountains and utilized more natural and demographic design elements, dictating the resulting architectural layout. In the Kamakura period, Japanese architects began to utilize technology to resist damage from earthquakes, rainfall, sun, and heat damage.<ref name="auto"/> These fortifications were integrated into the remodeling of Tō-ji. This style of building defending against the natural elements evolved into the [[Zenshūyō]] style, seen later on in the Kamakura period.<ref name="auto"/> This style utilizes the "hidden roof" innovation.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.aisf.or.jp/~jaanus/|title=:: JAANUS :: Terminology of Japanese Architecture & Art History|website=www.aisf.or.jp}}</ref> Zenshūyō style temples, such as Tō-ji, are characterized by linear spacing outlines of the [[Garan]], hinging panel doors, cusped windows called [[Katōmado]], and decorative pent roofs called [[Mokoshi]].<ref name="auto"/> Although containing many of the elements of Zenshūyō style architecture, the Tō-ji temple uses the natural land around it to dictate the layout of the garan, which is a technique used in the [[Heian Period]] and Edo Period of [[Japanese Architecture]]. This correlates with the Shingon attribution by [[Emperor Saga]] in 823. The decorative mokoshi and outfitting of modern structural technology (of the time), were most likely integrated during the remodeling of the tower in the Kamakura Period.

⚫
Tō-ji was rebuilt in the early [[Edo Period]], verging on the [[Kamakura Period]].<ref>https://www.britannica.com/art/Japanese-architecture</ref> During this rebuild, Tō-ji was dedicated to be a Shingon [[Buddhist temple]] ([[Shingon]], a form of [[Vajrayana Buddhism]], was brought to [[Japan]] by [[Kūkai]], a priest in 806).<ref>{{cite book | last = Ryuichi | first = Abe | title = The Weaving of Mantra: Kukai and the Construction of Esoteric Buddhist Discourse | publisher = Columbia University Press | year = 1999 | isbn = 0-231-11286-6 }}</ref> These temples were typically built in the mountains and utilized more natural and demographic design elements, dictating the resulting architectural layout. In the Kamakura period, Japanese architects began to utilize technology to resist damage from earthquakes, rainfall, sun and heat damage.<ref>https://www.britannica.com/art/Japanese-architecture</ref> These fortifications were integrated into the remodeling of Tō-ji. This style of building of defending against the natural elements evolved into the [[Zenshūyō]] style, seen later on in the Kamakura period.<ref>https://www.britannica.com/art/Japanese-architecture</ref> This style utilizes the "hidden roof" innovation.<ref>http://www.aisf.or.jp/~jaanus/</ref> Zenshūyō style temples, such as Tō-ji, are characterized by linear spacing outlines of the [[Garan]], hinging panel doors, cusped windows called [[Katōmado]], and decorative pent roofs called [[Mokoshi]].<ref>https://www.britannica.com/art/Japanese-architecture</ref> Although containing many of the elements of Zenshūyō style architecture, the Tō-ji temple uses the natural land around it to dictate the layout of the garan, which is a technique used in the [[Heian Period]] and Edo Period of [[Japanese Architecture]]. This correlates with the Shingon attribution by [[Emperor Saga]] in 823. The decorative mokoshi and outfitting of modern structural technology (of the time), was most likely integrated during the remodeling of the tower in the Kamakura Period.


Recognizing the historical and spiritual significance of Tō-ji, [[United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization|UNESCO]] designated it, along with several other treasures in [[Kyoto Prefecture]], as part of the "[[Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto]]" [[World Heritage Site]].
Recognizing the historical and spiritual significance of Tō-ji, [[United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization|UNESCO]] designated it, along with several other treasures in [[Kyoto Prefecture]], as part of the "[[Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto]]" [[World Heritage Site]].


==Flea market==
==Flea market==
On the 21st of each month, a famous [[flea market]] is held on the grounds of Tō-ji. This market is popularly called Kōbō-san, in honor of Kōbō Daishi, who died on March 21. The flea market features a variety of antiques, art, clothes, pottery, some food, and typical second-hand flea market goods. By far the largest market is held on December 21, as it is the last of the year.
On the 21st of each month, a famous [[flea market]] is held on the grounds of Tō-ji. This market is popularly called Kōbō-san, in honor of Kōbō Daishi ([[Kūkai]]), who died on the 21 of the third Month of 835 AD (22 April in the Western Calendar). The flea market features a variety of antiques, art, clothes, pottery, some food, and typical second-hand flea market goods. By far the largest market is held on December 21, as it is the last of the year.<ref>{{cite web|archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20170104011731/http://kyoto-np.co.jp/sightseeing/article/20161221000076|archive-date=4 Jan 2017|url=http://kyoto-np.co.jp/sightseeing/article/20161221000076|script-title=ja:穏やかな冬至、終い弘法にぎわう　京都・東寺|lang=ja|trans-title=A mild winter solstice leads to a bustling festival at Toji Temple, Kyoto|date=2016-12-21|publisher=Kyoto Municipality}}</ref>


A similar market is held on the 25th of every month at [[Kitano Tenmangū]], also called Tenjin. A Kyoto proverb proclaims, "Fair weather at Tō-ji market means rainy weather at Tenjin market", calling to mind Kyoto's fickle weather.
A similar market is held on the 25th of every month at [[Kitano Tenmangū]], also called Tenjin.<ref>{{cite book|series=Lonely Planet|title=Japan|isbn=978-1-78868-381-4|first1=Rebecca|last1=Milner|display-authors=etal|location=Singapore|publisher=Lonely Planet Global|page=359|year=2021|edition=17th}}</ref> A Kyoto proverb proclaims, "Fair weather at Tō-ji market means rainy weather at Tenjin market", calling to mind Kyoto's fickle weather.


A smaller, less-crowded, antique-oriented market is held at the Tō-ji grounds on the first Sunday of each month.
A smaller, less-crowded, antique-oriented market is held at the Tō-ji grounds on the first Sunday of each month.{{dubious|date=December 2024}}{{cn|date=December 2024}}


==Sai-ji==
==Sai-ji==
{{close paraphrasing|date=April 2021}}
The [[Rajōmon|Rashomon]] was formerly situated to the west of Tō-ji, though now only a marker remains, reachable a short walk west along Kujō street. A little further west was [[Sai-ji]] (West Temple), though now only a small park remains.
The [[Rajōmon|Rashomon]] was formerly situated to the west of Tō-ji, though now only a marker remains, reachable a short walk west along Kujō street. A little further west was [[Sai-ji]] (West Temple), though now only a small park remains.


Tō-ji and Sai-ji were built at the southern edge of the capital, and were the only Buddhist temples officially allowed in Heian-kyō at the time. Sai-ji disappeared in the 16th century. The reason was bad irrigation of [[Ukyō-ku, Kyoto|Ukyō-ku]] and the lack of funds to maintain it.
Tō-ji and Sai-ji were built at the southern edge of the capital and were the only Buddhist temples officially allowed in Heian-kyō at the time. Sai-ji disappeared in the 16th century. The reason was bad irrigation of [[Ukyō-ku, Kyoto|Ukyō-ku]] and the lack of funds to maintain it.


A legend says that at the time of a great drought, Kūkai, the priest at Tō-ji, and Shubin, his colleague at Sai-ji, were both praying for the rainfall. Kūkai succeeded where Shubin had failed, and Shubin, envious, shot an arrow at Kūkai. At that time a Jizō{{clarify|date=July 2016}} appeared and took the arrow instead of Kūkai, saving his life. You can find the Jizō in question near the ruins of [[Rajōmon|Rashōmon]]. It has been chipped where the arrow hit it.
A legend says that at the time of a great drought, Kūkai, the priest at Tō-ji, and Shubin, his colleague at Sai-ji, were both praying for rainfall. Kūkai succeeded where Shubin had failed, and Shubin, envious, shot an arrow at Kūkai. At that time a Jizō{{clarify|date=July 2016}} appeared and took the arrow instead of Kūkai, saving his life. The Jizō is near the ruins of [[Rajōmon|Rashōmon]]. It has been chipped where the arrow is thought to have hit.


==Events==
==Events==
In 1995, the temple was the stage of the [[Yanni]] World Tour,
⚫
On July 7, 2007, one of the [[Live Earth concert, Kyoto|Live Earth concerts]] (held to raise awareness of the earth's climate) was staged at Tō-ji; artists who played included [[Bonnie Pink]], [[Michael Nyman]], [[Rip Slyme]], [[UA (singer)|UA]] and the [[Yellow Magic Orchestra]].

⚫
On July 7, 2007, one of the [[Live Earth concert, Kyoto|Live Earth concerts]] (held to raise awareness of the Earth's climate) was staged at Tō-ji; artists who played included [[Bonnie Pink]], [[Michael Nyman]], [[Rip Slyme]], [[UA (singer)|UA]] and the [[Yellow Magic Orchestra]].


==Gallery==
==Gallery==
Line 94: Line 93:
File:Dai Itoku Myoo Yamantaka Toji.JPG|Dai Itoku Myoo
File:Dai Itoku Myoo Yamantaka Toji.JPG|Dai Itoku Myoo
File:Kyowogokokuji Monastery Tobatsu Bishamonten (280).jpg|Bishamonten
File:Kyowogokokuji Monastery Tobatsu Bishamonten (280).jpg|Bishamonten
File:Toji Temple, Kyoto, Japan 1.jpg
File:Toji Temple, Kyoto, Japan 2.jpg
</gallery>
</gallery>


Line 105: Line 106:
*[[List of National Treasures of Japan (writings)]]
*[[List of National Treasures of Japan (writings)]]
*[[List of National Treasures of Japan (crafts-others)]]
*[[List of National Treasures of Japan (crafts-others)]]
*[[List of tallest structures built before the 20th century]]
*[[Thirteen Buddhist Sites of Kyoto]]
*[[Thirteen Buddhist Sites of Kyoto]]
* For an explanation of terms concerning Japanese Buddhism, Japanese Buddhist art, and Japanese Buddhist temple architecture, see the [[Glossary of Japanese Buddhism]].


==Notes==
==Notes==
Line 123: Line 124:


{{DEFAULTSORT:To-Ji}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:To-Ji}}
⚫
[[Category:796 establishments]]
[[Category:8th-century establishments in Japan]]
[[Category:8th-century establishments in Japan]]
[[Category:Buddhist temples in Kyoto]]
[[Category:Buddhist temples in Kyoto]]
Line 134: Line 134:
[[Category:Tōji Shingon temples]]
[[Category:Tōji Shingon temples]]
[[Category:World Heritage Sites in Japan]]
[[Category:World Heritage Sites in Japan]]
⚫
[[Category:796 establishments]]
[[Category:Religious buildings and structures completed in the 790s]]

Latest revision as of 14:25, 3 January 2025

This article is about a Buddhist temple in Kyoto, Japan. For other uses, see Tōji.
Tō-ji
東寺
View of the Tō-ji complex
Religion
AffiliationTōji-Shingon
DeityYakushi Nyorai (Bhaiṣajyaguru)
Location
Location1 Kujōchō, Minami-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture
CountryJapan
Architecture
FounderEmperor Kanmu
Date established796
Completed1644 (Reconstruction)
Website
http://www.toji.or.jp/

Tō-ji Temple (東寺, Tō-ji, "East Temple"), also known as Kyō-ō-gokoku-ji (教王護国寺, The Temple for the Defense of the Nation by Means of the King of Doctrines) is a Shingon Buddhist temple in the Minami-ku ward of Kyoto, Japan.

Founded in 796, it was one of the only three Buddhist temples allowed in the city at the time it became the capital of Japan. As such it has a long history, housing treasures and documents from the early Heian period and the Tang dynasty, and with buildings in its complex covering the Kamakura, Muromachi, Momoyama, and Edo periods. Five of these buildings have been designated National Treasures in two different categories: the Lotus Flower Gate (rengemon), the Miei Hall (mieidō), the Golden Hall (kondō) and the five-storied Pagoda (gojūnotō) (temple buildings) and the Kanchiin Guest Hall (kanchiin kyakuden) (residences).

Tō-ji was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994, as part of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto.

History

[edit]

Tō-ji was founded in the early Heian period.[1] The temple dates from 796, two years after the capital moved to Heian-kyō. Together with its partner Sai-ji, and the temple Shingon-in (located in the Heian Palace), it was one of only three Buddhist temples allowed in the capital at the time and is the only of the three to survive to the present.

It once had a partner, Sai-ji (West Temple) and, together, they stood alongside the Rashomon, the gate to the Heian capital. It was formerly known as Kyō-ō-gokoku-ji (教王護国寺, The Temple for the Defense of the Nation by Means of the King of Doctrines)[2] which indicates that it previously functioned as a temple providing protection for the nation. Tō-ji is located in Minami-ku near the intersection of Ōmiya Street and Kujō Street, southwest of Kyōto Station.

Tō-ji is often associated with Kōbō Daishi (Kūkai). Though Tō-ji began to decline at the end of the Heian period, it came back into the spotlight with the rise of Daishi Shinko (worshipping of Kōbō Daishi) in the Kamakura period. The well-known Buddhist priest was put in charge of Tō-ji in 823 by order of Emperor Saga. The temple's principal image is of Yakushi Nyorai, the Medicine Buddha. Many religious services for Daishi are held in Miei-dō (御影堂) (or Daishi-dō (大師堂), in another name), the residence of Kōbō Daishi.[3] In 1586, the temple was seriously damaged by an earthquake.[4]

Architecture

[edit]
Five-storied Pagoda (National Treasure)
Close-up of the Five-storied Pagoda
Five roofs of Toji-ji, Kyoto

Five-storey Pagoda

[edit]

The five-storied Pagoda (五重塔, gojūnotō) of Tō-ji dates from 1643 (Edo period), when it was rebuilt by order of the third Tokugawa Shōgun, Iemitsu. The original pagoda was built in the 9th century, but it was destroyed and rebuilt four times before reaching its current state. It was designated a National Treasure in 1952.[5]

The pagoda stands 54.8 meters (180 feet) high, and is the tallest wooden tower in Japan. Entrance into the pagoda itself is permitted only on special occasions, but it is usually open and the interior can be seen from the outside. It houses relics, sculptures, and paintings. At ground level, there are statues of four Buddhas facing different directions.[6]

Kondo

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The Kondo or Golden Hall is the main hall of the temple and contains a statue of Yakushi from 1603.

Miedo

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The Miedo is dedicated to Kobo Daishi, also called Kukai, the temple's founder. It stands on the location of his original residence. The hall is opened on the 21st of each month when a memorial service is held for Kukai.

Temple grounds

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The grounds feature a garden and pond, in which turtles and koi swim. The grounds also house an academically rigorous private school, Rakunan, from which many students are sent to elite universities.

Architectural Analysis

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Tō-ji was rebuilt in the early Edo Period, verging on the Kamakura Period.[7] During this rebuild, Tō-ji was dedicated to be a Shingon Buddhist temple (Shingon, a form of Vajrayana Buddhism, was brought to Japan by Kūkai, a priest in 806).[8] These temples were typically built in the mountains and utilized more natural and demographic design elements, dictating the resulting architectural layout. In the Kamakura period, Japanese architects began to utilize technology to resist damage from earthquakes, rainfall, sun, and heat damage.[7] These fortifications were integrated into the remodeling of Tō-ji. This style of building defending against the natural elements evolved into the Zenshūyō style, seen later on in the Kamakura period.[7] This style utilizes the "hidden roof" innovation.[9] Zenshūyō style temples, such as Tō-ji, are characterized by linear spacing outlines of the Garan, hinging panel doors, cusped windows called Katōmado, and decorative pent roofs called Mokoshi.[7] Although containing many of the elements of Zenshūyō style architecture, the Tō-ji temple uses the natural land around it to dictate the layout of the garan, which is a technique used in the Heian Period and Edo Period of Japanese Architecture. This correlates with the Shingon attribution by Emperor Saga in 823. The decorative mokoshi and outfitting of modern structural technology (of the time), were most likely integrated during the remodeling of the tower in the Kamakura Period.

Recognizing the historical and spiritual significance of Tō-ji, UNESCO designated it, along with several other treasures in Kyoto Prefecture, as part of the "Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto" World Heritage Site.

Flea market

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On the 21st of each month, a famous flea market is held on the grounds of Tō-ji. This market is popularly called Kōbō-san, in honor of Kōbō Daishi (Kūkai), who died on the 21 of the third Month of 835 AD (22 April in the Western Calendar). The flea market features a variety of antiques, art, clothes, pottery, some food, and typical second-hand flea market goods. By far the largest market is held on December 21, as it is the last of the year.[10]

A similar market is held on the 25th of every month at Kitano Tenmangū, also called Tenjin.[11] A Kyoto proverb proclaims, "Fair weather at Tō-ji market means rainy weather at Tenjin market", calling to mind Kyoto's fickle weather.

A smaller, less-crowded, antique-oriented market is held at the Tō-ji grounds on the first Sunday of each month.[dubious – discuss][citation needed]

Sai-ji

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The Rashomon was formerly situated to the west of Tō-ji, though now only a marker remains, reachable a short walk west along Kujō street. A little further west was Sai-ji (West Temple), though now only a small park remains.

Tō-ji and Sai-ji were built at the southern edge of the capital and were the only Buddhist temples officially allowed in Heian-kyō at the time. Sai-ji disappeared in the 16th century. The reason was bad irrigation of Ukyō-ku and the lack of funds to maintain it.

A legend says that at the time of a great drought, Kūkai, the priest at Tō-ji, and Shubin, his colleague at Sai-ji, were both praying for rainfall. Kūkai succeeded where Shubin had failed, and Shubin, envious, shot an arrow at Kūkai. At that time a Jizō[clarification needed] appeared and took the arrow instead of Kūkai, saving his life. The Jizō is near the ruins of Rashōmon. It has been chipped where the arrow is thought to have hit.

Events

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In 1995, the temple was the stage of the Yanni World Tour,

On July 7, 2007, one of the Live Earth concerts (held to raise awareness of the Earth's climate) was staged at Tō-ji; artists who played included Bonnie Pink, Michael Nyman, Rip Slyme, UA and the Yellow Magic Orchestra.

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  • Kondo
    Kondo
  • Miedo
    Miedo
  • Yakushi
    Yakushi
  • Senju Kannon
    Senju Kannon
  • Dainiti and Amida
    Dainiti and Amida
  • Gozanze Myoo
    Gozanze Myoo
  • Taishakuten
    Taishakuten
  • Kongokai Mandala
    Kongokai Mandala
  • Taizokai Mandala
    Taizokai Mandala
  • Dai Itoku Myoo
    Dai Itoku Myoo
  • Bishamonten
    Bishamonten

See also

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Notes

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  1. ^ Ponsonby-Fane, Richard. (1956). Kyoto: The Old Capital of Japan, 794–1869, p. 111.
  2. ^ Hakeda, Yoshito S. (1972). Kūkai and His Major Works. Columbia University Press. p. 7. ISBN 0-231-05933-7.
  3. ^ "東寺 - 御影堂 〈大師堂〉 / Mieido House (Daishido House)". www.toji.or.jp. Archived from the original on 2009-06-19.
  4. ^ Utsu, Tokuji; Shima, Etsuzo; Yoshii, Toshiyoshi; Yamashina, Kenichiro (2001). 地震の事典. Asakura Shoten.
  5. ^ "教王護国寺五重塔" (in Japanese). Cultural Heritage Online. Retrieved 2019-06-21.
  6. ^ "Inside of To-ji". To-ji. Retrieved 2019-06-21.
  7. ^ a b c d "Japanese architecture | History, Characteristics, & Facts". Encyclopedia Britannica.
  8. ^ Ryuichi, Abe (1999). The Weaving of Mantra: Kukai and the Construction of Esoteric Buddhist Discourse. Columbia University Press. ISBN 0-231-11286-6.
  9. ^ ":: JAANUS :: Terminology of Japanese Architecture & Art History". www.aisf.or.jp.
  10. ^ 穏やかな冬至、終い弘法にぎわう　京都・東寺 [A mild winter solstice leads to a bustling festival at Toji Temple, Kyoto] (in Japanese). Kyoto Municipality. 2016-12-21. Archived from the original on 4 Jan 2017.
  11. ^ Milner, Rebecca; et al. (2021). Japan. Lonely Planet (17th ed.). Singapore: Lonely Planet Global. p. 359. ISBN 978-1-78868-381-4.

References

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Wikimedia Commons has media related to Toji.
  • Ponsonby-Fane, Richard Arthur Brabazon. (1956). Kyoto: The Old Capital of Japan, 794–1869. Kyoto: The Ponsonby Memorial Society.

34°58′50″N 135°44′52″E / 34.98056°N 135.74778°E / 34.98056; 135.74778

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