Jissoin Temple

Jisso-in is a temple in the Iwakura area of Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City, famous for ‘floor maple leaves’ (yuka-momiji)—the reflection of autumn foliage on its polished floors. It was founded in 1229 (Kanki 1) by the monk Jo’un and originally stood in Murasakino, later moving to its present site during the time of the monk Gion (younger brother of Ashikaga Yoshimitsu). When Prince Yoshinobu, a son of Emperor Gosai, entered the temple, it became a monzeki (imperial) temple, and thereafter members of the imperial family continued to serve as abbots. The temple has two contrasting gardens: a dry landscape garden and a strolling garden. In front of the guest hall is the ‘Ipputsu Hassō no Niwa’ (One Buddha, Eight Monks Garden), a karesansui garden that borrows Mt. Hiei as scenery; it was created through civic participation under the supervision of Ogawa Katsunori and is called the ‘Kokoro no Niwa’ (Garden of the Heart). West of the detached shoin is a pond-strolling garden with excellent stone arrangements such as a waterfall composition. In seasons of fresh greenery and autumn leaves, the scenery reflects on the highly polished floors—known as ‘floor green’ (yuka-midori) and ‘floor maple’ (yuka-momiji)—drawing many visitors. Important paintings include Kano-school sliding-door works such as ‘Flock of Cranes’ and ‘Tiger on Bamboo (cedar doors).’ From Kyoto Station, take the subway to Kokusaikaikan Station, transfer to a Kyoto Bus, and get off at ‘Iwakura Jisso-in’; the temple is right there.