Stroll Through Pastoral Country Paths to This Nunnery Connected to the Tale of the Heike, and View Its Quiet Garden
About this spot
A Tendai Buddhist nunnery with connections to the Tale of the Heike, known as the place where former Empress Kenrei-mon-in Tokushi spent her remaining years after the Battle of Dannoura. It has a long history said to have been founded by Prince Shotoku. As you climb the stone steps beyond pastoral scenery, you'll find a modest main hall and a garden with a pond waiting quietly. The original main hall was lost in a fire in 2000 but was rebuilt in 2005, housing a vividly colored stone Jizo Bodhisattva. Set slightly apart from the busier Senin-in area, in a quiet mountain valley with relatively few visitors, this temple offers a contemplative atmosphere. Walking these grounds while discussing the story of Emperor Go-Shirakawa's visit to former Empress Kenrei-mon-in—the 'Ohara Imperial Visit'—with grandparents becomes a history lesson quite different from textbooks.
Tips
From Ohara bus stop, take country paths through rice fields in the opposite direction from Senin-in, about a 15-minute walk. From Senin-in's gate, it's a 20-25 minute walk on nearly level paths. There are stone steps at the end, so grandparents should use the handrail and proceed slowly. Tea shops and souvenir stands are located near the approach path entrance, where you can rest after visiting before returning.
Best time to visit
Plan for about 1 hour. The quiet afternoon hours reveal the serene and contemplative atmosphere unique to a nunnery.
Access & map
〒601-1248 Kyoto Prefecture, Kyoto City, Sakyo Ward, Ohara Kusokuni-cho 676
Model course featuring this spot
Ohara: Senin-in Temple and the Flavors of the Countryside
Kyoto
Explore features & model courses
Like this spot? Sign up free to save it to your own booklet as a plan or a want-to-go.