Kōdai-ji Temple

What it is

• A Rinzai Zen temple in Kyoto.
• Founded in 1605 by Nene, wife of Toyotomi Hideyoshi.
• Serves as a mausoleum for Hideyoshi and Nene.
• Main image is Shaka Nyorai.

What to see

• Original structures: Kaisan-do hall, Otamaya, Kasatei, Shiguretei.
• Momoyama style maki-e lacquerware.
• Garden designated a National Historic Site and Place of Scenic Beauty.
• Kōdai-ji Sho Museum, opened in 1998.
• An Android Kannon named Mindar.

When to go

• First temple in Kyoto to offer night viewings.

Notes written by Japan Gems from facts in Japanese Wikipedia.