Koryuji Temple

Koryuji Temple, located in the Uzumasa district of western Kyoto, stands as one of Japan's oldest temples, founded in 622 by Prince Shotoku or the powerful Hata clan. The temple's establishment predates even the relocation of Japan's capital to Kyoto, making it a repository of early Japanese Buddhist art and architecture. Throughout its long history, Koryuji has served as a center of worship and scholarship, though it has been rebuilt several times due to fires, most recently in 1818.

The temple's greatest treasure is the Miroku Bosatsu statue, a National Treasure depicting the Buddha of the Future in a contemplative pose with one finger delicately touching its cheek. This wooden statue, dating from the 6th or 7th century, is considered one of Japan's most exquisite Buddhist sculptures and represents the finest example of early Japanese Buddhist art. The temple houses numerous other Important Cultural Properties in its Treasure Hall, including additional Buddhist statues, scrolls, and ritual objects that span several centuries of Japanese religious history.

Visitors enter through the temple's distinctive Niomon Gate and can explore the main hall, lecture hall, and octagonal Keigu-do Hall, which was modeled after similar structures on the Korean peninsula. The Treasure Hall displays the temple's remarkable collection of Buddhist art in a climate-controlled environment, allowing close viewing of the Miroku Bosatsu and other significant pieces. The temple grounds, though not expansive, offer a peaceful atmosphere away from Kyoto's more crowded tourist sites. Photography is strictly prohibited inside the Treasure Hall to preserve the artworks.

Koryuji Temple is accessible via the Keifuku Randen Arashiyama Line, with Uzumasa Koryuji-mae Station located directly in front of the temple entrance. Alternatively, visitors can take city buses 11, 61, 62, 63, or 75 to the Uzumasa Koryuji-mae stop. The temple is approximately 20 minutes by train from central Kyoto and can be combined with visits to the nearby Toei Uzumasa Eigamura film studio.