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Audio Guide of Kyoto Temples: Unryu-in Temple Edition
【Highlights】
1.The Dragon Screen
Welcome to Unryū-in (Cloud Dragon) Temple.
The dragon depicted here is one of the Eight Legions, guardian deities of Buddhism.
In Japan, dragons have long been revered as deities of water and the weather. Because of their connection to water, they are often depicted in temples as protectors against fire. As they fly in the heavens, dragons frequently appear in temple ceilings, transoms, and other architectural features.
Now, take a moment to focus on the dragon in this screen in front of you. If you walk slowly from right to left while maintaining eye contact with the dragon, you will notice that its face appears to elongate. Conversely, as you move from left to right, the face seems to shorten.
This effect is achieved using reverse perspective, a technique often found in Japanese woodblock print paintings. By deliberately manipulating depth perception, the artwork creates an optical illusion that alters how we perceive the dragon’s face. Giving a sense of the constant activity of dragons to fly through the skies to aid sentient life and cultivate themselves to be noble beings.
2.The Imperial Envoy Gate
Please take a look at the closed gate in front of the main hall.
This is a highly prestigious gate that is only opened when the Emperor or members of the imperial family visit. The structure of this gate belongs to a traditional Japanese architectural style known as a four-legged gate. It is characterized by having two main pillars at the front and back, each supported by two additional pillars.
Among the various types of Japanese gates, this gate is considered one of the most dignified. This style is often found at temples, Shinto shrines, and the main entrances of samurai residences, signifying its high status and importance.
3.The Main Hall
Buddhism and the Emperor.
Please look at the entrance of the main hall. Above the entrance, you will see a plaque inscribed with the characters "Ryūgeden.” It is said that this inscription was written by Imperial Princess Teruko, the daughter of the 108th Emperor of Japan, Emperor Go-Mizunoo, during the Edo period. Princess Teruko later became a Buddhist nun and was known for her deep compassion and left a legacy of remarkable talent in waka poetry, calligraphy, and painting.
The history of Unryū-in dates back even further during the reign of Emperor Go-En'yū, the 5th emperor of the Northern Court. Emperor Go-En'yū valued the meritorious activity of sutra copying and granted an imperial decree to Unryū-in, establishing it as a center for sutra transcription. Since then, the temple has continued its role as a shakyō dōjō (a training hall for sutra copying).
The Sutra Tower
Upon entering the main hall, you will see a Sutra Tower at the center of the hall. Inside this tower, there is a precious collection of sutras transcribed by Princess Teruko.
Among them, is a magnificent copy of the Lotus Sutra written in gold ink on navy-blue paper. The colophon of the sutra reveals her deep prayers for the repose of her father, and her mother’s soul through memorial offerings.
In this serene space, take a moment to reflect on the timeless spirit and determination of sutra copying or any Buddhist practice with the intent to aid other beings, that has endured across centuries.
4.The Buddhas
As you bow and enter the main hall, on the back altar you will see at the center Yakushi Nyorai (also known as Medicine Buddha), a statue said to have been created during the Heian period.
To his right stands Nikkō Bosatsu (also known as Bodhisattva of Sunlight), and to his left, Gakkō Bosatsu (also known as Bodhisattva of Moonlight). These two statues were made during the Edo period.
Yakushi Nyorai – The Buddha of Healing
Yakushi Nyorai is known as the "Great physician" saving people from illness and suffering.Supporting him on either side are his attendants, Nikkō Bosatsu and Gakkō Bosatsu.Their roles are often compared to that of nurses assisting a doctor. Nikkō Bosatsu attending to those suffering in the day, while Gakkō Bosatsu watches over those at night. Together, they protect and guide people unceasingly day and night.
The Twelve Heavenly Generals
Now, take a look behind Yakushi Nyorai. You will notice a radiant halo symbolizing light.On this halo stand the Twelve Heavenly Generals, who deliver and fight for the accomplishment of Yakushi Nyorai’s divine power.
These Twelve Generals correspond to:
•Yakushi Nyorai’s "Twelve Great compassionate Vows"
•The twelve hours of the day and night
•The twelve months of the year
•The twelve directions
If you look closely, you’ll notice that each general has an animal from the twelve animal zodiac on their head.
Each of the Twelve Generals is also said to be accompanied by 7,000 divine marshalles, meaning that a total of 84,000 divine beings support Yakushi Nyorai. It is truly a Divine assembly working together to protect and heal all beings wether they are Buddhist followers or not.
The Mantra of Yakushi Nyorai
When paying your respects, try chanting Yakushi Nyorai’s mantra three times:
On Korokoro Sendari Matōgi Sowaka
Explanation of the Mantra
This mantra is a sacred invocation of healing and purification:
•The syllable "On" is a syllable of invocation, calling forth divine compassion and great spirit of offering.
•The syllables "Korokoro" Represents the continuous flow of healing energy. Like an ever turning wheel.
•The syllable "Sendari" A transliteration of Sanskrit "Candana," meaning sandalwood, a material classically symbolizing purification.
•The syllable "Matōgi" A form of the term Mātar, referring to divine motherly like care and protection.
•The syllable "Sowaka" A Sanskrit term (svāhā), meaning "so be it" or "may this come to pass".
By chanting this mantra, you are offering a prayer for health, peace, and spiritual well-being to yourself and all beings.
5.Reimei-den – The Hall of Imperial Spirits
This building is a sacred hall dedicated to enshrining the memorial plaques of the Japanese Imperial Family.
Now, take a moment to observe the area in front of the building. The imperial chrysanthemum crest is beautifully raked in the sand, forming an intricate pattern that symbolizes purity and harmony. At its center stands a single stone lantern, which is said to have been donated by Tokugawa Yoshinobu, the 15th and final shogun of the Edo shogunate.
Look closely at this stone lantern, do you notice that it is slightly tilted? It almost appears as if it is quietly bowing in reverence towards the building, where generations of emperors are enshrined.
This building holds a profound historical connection with the Imperial Family. As you stand before it, take a moment to offer your silent respects for their efforts to build the Japan we can all enjoy today and their efforts to preserve the Buddhist teachings that alleviate the suffering of all beings.
6.The Great Wheel Room (Dairin no Ma)
As you enter this room, take a moment to appreciate the garden view. In the center, you will notice a particularly tall and majestic cedar tree standing prominently. It is said that this tree was once struck by lightning. Although a lightning rod has since been installed, the tree’s silhouette resembles a dragon ascending to the heavens.
In this tranquil space, sit on the red felt mat or the meditation seat and allow yourself to become immersed in the scenery or practice Ajikan Meditation.
Ajikan Meditation (The Contemplation of the syllable "A")
Ajikan is a form of Shingon Buddhist meditation that focuses on the Sanskrit syllable "A" which represents the sound of the outward breath that all beings including you and all Buddhas do just the same, the sound that is at the core of the sound of all letters that we use to conceptualize the world around us in words, and the representative sound of the highest Buddha Mahāvairocana. This mindfulness allows us to realize the nature of the Buddha and our innate existence are not different, the nature of mandalas where the Buddhas reside and our own world around us are not different.
How to Practice Ajikan
1.Sit Comfortably – Take a stable and relaxed posture, either cross-legged or in formal kneeling.
2.Focus on the the syllable "A" Character – Traditionally, the Sanskrit character "A" is visualized as resting atop a lotus flower.
3.Regulate Your Breathing – Inhale deeply and exhale slowly, maintaining a steady rhythm.
4.Contemplate the Meaning of the syllable "A" in every exhale – In esoteric Buddhism, the syllable "A" represents the origin of all things, ultimate truth, and the unchanging nature of existence.
5.Let Thoughts Flow – In comparison to Zen which emphasizes an empty mind. In Shingon rather than forcing your mind to be empty, allow thoughts to come and go naturally, like clouds passing through the sky.
This meditation practice helps attachment and control reaction to distractions, bring inner peace, and connect with the fundamental nature of the universe.
7.Lotus Room
The Shikishi Windows
Now, please take a seat on the floor cushion in front of the alcove.One of the unique features of this room is the view through the shikishi windows, each offering a different framed scene.
From left to right, the windows reveal seasonal landscapes featuring:
•Tsubaki (Camellia)
•Toro (Stone Lantern)
•Kaede (Maple Tree)
•Matsu (Pine Tree)
As the seasons change, so do the views seen through these windows. This design allows visitors to appreciate the beauty of nature throughout the four seasons and the Buddhist concept of impermanence, offering a new experience with each visit.
The Snow-Viewing Screens
This room also features a traditional architectural element known as Snow-Viewing Screens. These sliding paper doors have glass panels at the bottom, allowing you to enjoy the garden view even while seated.
The name snow-viewing comes from the idea that one can sit indoors and admire the snow-covered landscape through the lower glass section. By gazing at the ever-changing natural scenery through these windows, you can experience a sense of calm and mindfulness.
8.The Maguro Stone
The stone was collected from the Kamo River and is considered one of the highest appraised naturally shaped viewing stones. You may associate the name "Maguro" with the Tuna, but in reality, the name comes from the phrase "makkuro ii ishi", meaning "a truly black stone".
The Unique Beauty of the Maguro Stone
One of its most striking features is its deep black luster, which becomes even more pronounced on rainy days. When wet, it takes on a glossy, jet-black sheen, resembling the calm and dignified presence of a Buddha.
The Maguro Stone presents a different expression depending on the weather radiating elegance in the sunlight and an almost mystical glow when wet from the rain. Each visit offers a chance to rediscover its ever-changing and profound beauty. Take a moment to observe it closely and experience its quiet, meditative presence.
9.The Running Daikokuten
One of the most famous figures that draws visitors from all across Japan, Daikokuten is widely known as a guardian of kitchens and is often depicted as a plump, smiling figure.However, this Daikokuten is quite unique as he is portrayed in motion, as if running.
The Exquisite Details of Running Daikokuten
First, take a look at his chest. You will notice an intricate peony design created with a delicate craftsmanship which involves cutting gold leaf into thin strips and layering them, making it an extremely fine and intricate decoration.
Now, focus on his eyes. They are crafted using a technique where crystal is embedded into the eyes. As you change your viewing angle, the eyes gleam with a striking brilliance, enhancing Daikokuten’s powerful and mysterious aura.
This statue, created during the Kamakura period, has a slightly stern expression, which is different from the usual cheerful image of Daikokuten you might see throughout Japan. If you look closely, you will see that one foot is stepping forward.
This posture symbolizes Daikokuten running atop lotus flowers, delivering happiness directly to people’s homes. He is truly a "bringer of fortune" in motion!
A Little-Known Fact: The Surprising Origins of Daikokuten
Did you know that Daikokuten originally comes from India? He was once worshipped as Mahākāla a god of war and destruction. This explains why this particular Daikokuten has a more intense and determined expression. Over time, Mahākāla was introduced to China and then Japan, where he merged with the native deity Ōkuninushi no Mikoto.
Through this fusion, Mahākāla transformed into the familiar, benevolent Daikokuten known today as a deity of prosperity and good fortune.
10.The Moon Window Room
Please look to the side of the alcove. You will notice a crescent-shaped cutout in the wall.
This unique design allows moonlight to enter the room at night, casting a luminous crescent shape onto the earthen wall. As time passes, the moonlight gradually shifts, creating an illusion of the moon slowly moving across the night sky.
This subtle interplay of light and shadow transforms the room into a tranquil, dreamlike space. During the spring and autumn light-up events, visitors can fully appreciate the beauty of the "floating moon" in this room.
Each season offers a new perspective on this enchanting display, so we encourage you to return at different times of the year to experience the unique harmony of light and shadow.
11.The Room of Enlightenment
Inside this space, you will find two distinct windows:
•A square window in the foreground, known as the "Window of Delusion."
•A round window in the back, called the "Window of Enlightenment."
These windows symbolize the journey of life, reflecting the Buddhist concept of the Four Sufferings:
Birth, Aging, Sickness, and Death.The transformation of the delusions that cause us suffering into the relaization of our innate enlightenment is at the core of the Buddhist path.
Step 1: Sitting Before the Window of Delusion
Take a seat in front of the square window. Its rigid, angular shape represents life’s struggles and hardships, the inevitable pains and uncertainties that everyone faces.
Here, take a moment for self-reflection. Contemplate your worries, doubts, and the challenges you are encountering.
Step 2: Moving Toward the Window of Enlightenment
Now, shift your focus toward the round window in the back. Its smooth, circular shape symbolizes the state of enlightenment, a mind free from attachments and suffering.
In Japanese, there is a saying:
"One's sharp edges become rounded.
"This represents the transformation from distress and struggle to peace and acceptance.
The circle signifies:
•The vast universe
•Perfect harmony
•Limitless expansion
•The ultimate state of enlightenment
By passing from the Window of Delusion to the Window of Enlightenment, one can experience a shift from confusion to serenity, from suffering to inner peace.
12.The Water Harp Cave
A Water Harp cave is a traditional Japanese garden ornament designed to create beautiful, resonant sounds. It consists of an earthen jar buried underground, into which water droplets fall, producing delicate echoing tones.
This technique has also been incorporated into classical Japanese performing arts. For example, in Noh theater, similar jars are buried beneath the stage to enhance sound resonance, following the same acoustic principle.
Experiencing the Sound of the Water Harp.
Now, gently place your ear near the bamboo listening tube and quietly focus on the sound. You will hear a clear, ringing "Tink, Tink" a pure and tranquil tone.
Some say that this sound resembles the call of a dragon echoing from deep within a valley.
Thank You for Visiting Unryū-in
Japanese temples are not only religious sanctuaries but also places where history, art, and spirituality intertwine. We hope this experience has deepened your appreciation of Japanese culture and Buddhist traditions.
Enjoy the rest of your journey in Kyoto, and we look forward to welcoming you again!
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