Tofuku-ji Temple

Tofuku-ji is also called Enichizan and is the head temple of Tofuku-ji Branch of the Rinzai sect. Fujiwarano Michiie determinated to erect a temple as large as Todai-Ji and Kofuku-Ji in 1236. He named it Tofuku-Ji, and invited a Zen priest Enni Ben’nen as the first master. The temple was completed in 1256. Its building were burn in a fire, but were rebuilt later. After that, the temple prospered as one of Kyoto Gozan (Five Great Temples of Kyoto), and many temples and pagodas were added. The Sanmon (main gate) was built in the early Muromachi period, and is designated as a national treasure. This Sanmon is the oldest remains as the Zen sect Sanmon. Its Zendo (meditation hall), Tosu (lavatory) and bathroom were also built in the Muromachi period, designated as nationally important cultural properties, and all important ruins of the Zen sect construction. The Hondo (main hall) and Hojo (priest’s residence) were rebuilt recently. The valley up to the Kaisando is a famous place to see autumn leaves, and three bridges, namely, Tsuten-kyo, Engetsu-kyo and Gaun-kyo were built across the valley. Kyoto City