Impressive 24-meter statue of the Bodhisattva Kannon, a symbol of peace and compassion. Apparently, it is not so old and was actually built in 1955 to honor WWII victims. This is a nice temple with a tranquil atmosphere and historical significance. Not very crowded.
On this Saturday, the temple of Ryozen Kannon is unfortunately closed for tourists. However, through keyholes and wall gaps, we were still able to admire the graceful statue of the Kannon.
Built in 1955, the Kannon measures 80 feet tall. Truly impressive!
Ryozen Kannon Temple in Kyoto is a hidden gem that offers not just beautiful views but also a deeply reflective experience. Dominated by the towering 24-meter statue of Kannon, the Goddess of Mercy, this temple is a peaceful spot that contrasts with the busier tourist sites in Kyoto. The serene atmosphere allows you to take in the calm and contemplate the temple’s significance as a memorial for those who lost their lives in World War II.
The colossal Kannon statue is both awe-inspiring and humbling, standing watch over the temple grounds with a tranquil expression. Beneath the statue, there is a small hall dedicated to fallen soldiers, with an eternal flame burning in their memory. The temple provides visitors with the opportunity to light incense and offer prayers for peace, adding a personal and contemplative touch to the visit.
What stood out to me was the peacefulness of the entire area. Unlike other temples in Kyoto, Ryozen Kannon doesn’t attract large crowds, allowing for quiet reflection and time to truly appreciate its beauty and message of peace. The surrounding gardens are simple yet well-maintained, adding to the overall feeling of serenity.
Ryozen Kannon Temple may not be as well-known as some of Kyoto’s other landmarks, but it offers a unique, meaningful experience that resonates deeply. If you’re in Kyoto and looking for a place to reflect, honor history, and find some tranquility away from the crowds, I highly recommend visiting Ryozen Kannon.
The Ryōzen Kannon (Goddess of Mercy) Temple is a war memorial for the dead of the Pacific War located in Eastern Kyoto. The concrete and steel statue of the Bodhisattva Avalokiteśvara was built by Hirosuke Ishikawa and unveiled on 8 June 1955 （69 years ago). The statue is 24 m high and weighs approximately 500 tons. The shrine beneath the statue contains an image of Bodhisattva Ekādaśamukha and images of the god of wind and god of thunder. After paying the 200 yen entrance fee, visitors can place a stick of incense (given them at the entrance) in a large pot just beyond Kagami Ike (Mirror Pool)
Other Buddhist statues and a memorial Buddhist footprint can be found in the garden area of the temple.
I was really touched by visiting the concrete Guanyin and the temple. Don’t forget to take a gorgeous picture at the Kagami Ike (Mirror Pool) A beautiful reflection of Guanyin could be captured in the photo. The clear blue sky and white clouds were so auspiciously bright and exquisite the day we paid the visit to the temple. Visitors minds could be transformed to a state of tranquility by the serenity calmness of the statue and the surrounding nature.
Also visitors can make a wish at the
Negai no Tama (Wishing Ball). It is believed that with Guanyin blessing, people wishes may be manifested.
FYI, Kodaiji (高台寺, Kōdaiji) is an outstanding temple in Kyoto Higashiyama district and is located 4 mins walk away from Ryōzen Kannon Temple. There is also a small bamboo grove in the temple ground. Entrance fee is 900 yen per adult.
I read about the giant Guan Yin statue so this Buddhist temple was on our must-go list. It's not crowded so very peaceful as well. When you pay the entrance fee, you get a single large joss stick so it's good if you're Buddhist and know what to do (and what you want to do).
The main hall is more for devotion than for viewing and I liked that. Behind the main hall are a few more shrines placed on the hillside. Inside the large statue itself is a hall with six Chinese zodiac deities, each looking after two of the twelve zodiac animals. There's an honour system to pay for prayers (you write then on wooden sticks) and candles which you can light in front of the respective deities. You're up close to each of the statues and worth spending some time there.
Overall, a very peaceful temple and very relaxing. See the pictures.
