Seiryo-ji

🛕 Temple

Part of Arashiyama

📍

Prefecture

Kyoto

🛕

Type

Temple

⭐

N/A

1 review

🎟️

¥400

Entry Fee

🚃 Train Access

About This Destination

Houses the 'Living Buddha' statue brought from China in 987—a wooden Shaka Nyorai said to replicate the Buddha's true likeness. X-rays in 1953 revealed silk internal organs hidden inside.

Also known as Saga Shakado, this temple houses the Shaka Nyorai 'Living Buddha,' a statue brought from Song dynasty China by the monk Chōnen in 987. Temple tradition holds that it replicates a likeness of the historical Buddha carved during his lifetime in India, which explains why the image became an important object of pilgrimage in Japan. In 1953, X-rays revealed that the statue contained silk replicas of human internal organs, along with documents, coins, and other offerings sealed inside since the 10th century. These items, now designated National Treasures, are displayed during special viewings. The temple's vermilion main hall (Shakado) stands out against the surrounding greenery, and the grounds include the graves of historical figures and a traditional garden. Seiryo-ji is famous for the Saga Dainenbutsu Kyogen—masked silent plays performed on special occasions throughout the year. Less crowded than neighboring Tenryu-ji, this temple offers a more contemplative experience in the Saga district of Arashiyama.

Location

Prefecture: Kyoto

Address: Kyoto, Japan

Nearest Station: Saga-Arashiyama Station

View on Google Maps

Visitor Information

Credit Cards: Unknown

Food Options: No dining on temple grounds. The Saga neighborhood has several traditional restaurants and cafes. The Arashiyama main street (15-minute walk) offers extensive dining options.

Official Website

Frequently Asked Questions

When can I see the items found inside the Living Buddha statue?

The silk organs and other treasures found inside the statue are displayed during special viewings, typically in spring (April-May) and autumn (October-November). Check the temple website for current exhibition dates. An additional fee of around 1,000 yen applies for the treasure house.

What is Saga Dainenbutsu Kyogen?

These are traditional masked silent plays performed at Seiryo-ji since the Kamakura period (13th century). Unlike Noh or Kabuki, the performers wear masks and act without speaking. Performances are held in spring (around April 1-3), during the autumn equinox, and occasionally at other times. Free to watch.

How do I combine Seiryo-ji with other Arashiyama sights?

From Saga-Arashiyama Station, walk north to Seiryo-ji first (10 minutes), then head south through the quiet Saga neighborhood to the bamboo grove and Tenryu-ji (20 minutes). This route avoids the crowds that build up in the main Arashiyama area by midday.