Ryozen Kannon Temple

Very interesting attraction in Kyoto near Gion. The Buddha is relatively recently built (1955) and is made of concrete. It is very distinct from the Great Buddha statues in Kamakura and Nara. There were almost no people there when we went, so it is a peaceful experience. You are given a free incense stick to make an offering, you can pray as well (if you like). The statue is very huge and impressive, good condition. The building near by has lots of text on it, interesting design. There are various shrines in the complex, some of them have stairs to reach. Vintage cars on display as well. There are clean bathrooms and water taps (for drinking), the ones outside the complex are kinda dirty so use these. Overall, while it may not be an ancient Japanese site, there is still some interest history here and a beautiful statue. I recommend to visit, admission is not expensive. It is near Kodaiji temple/bamboo grove so you can do both in one day.

The Ryozen Kannon Temple was founded in 1955 just ten years after the end of World War II, at a time when the memories of the conflict were still fresh in the minds of many Japanese citizens. The temple was conceived as a Buddhist alternative to the controversial Yasukuni Shrine in Tokyo, which has been a source of tension due to its enshrinement of convicted war criminals alongside other war dead. What sets Ryozen Kannon apart is its dedication to honoring all victims of the Pacific War, regardless of nationality. This inclusive approach to memorialization was groundbreaking for its time and remains a unique aspect of the temple today. The site contains memorials not only for Japanese soldiers and civilians but also for Allied prisoners of war who perished under Japanese control during the conflict. Nestled in the heart of Kyoto's historic Gion district, the Ryozen Kannon Temple stands as a striking testament to peace and remembrance. This unique Buddhist temple, established in 1955, serves as a solemn memorial to those who lost their lives during the Pacific War. With its towering 24-meter concrete statue of Kannon, the Goddess of Mercy, overlooking the grounds, Ryozen Kannon offers visitors a profound space for reflection and contemplation. The temple is located at 526-2 Shimokawahara-cho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto 605-0825. Ryozen Kannon is a 10-15 minute walk from Shijo Keihan Station. From Kyoto Station, take bus #206 or #207 to the Gion bus stop and walk up the hill.

In my opinion it is totally worth the visit! The huge Buddha was erected to commemorate the fallen people after WWII. You get an incense stick at the entrance. You can also get a Goshuin stamp here. Don’t forget to make a wish on the wish ball and have a stroll through the beautiful gardens!

Admission fee is 300 Yen (for adults) and it comes with an incense. The Kannon statue (goddess of Mercy) is huge that can be seen even from right outside the temple. Temple is peaceful and quiet. Goshuin are available in the temple as well for 300 yen (located on the left side of the main hall).