Rinnoji Temple

The temple of Rinno-ji was founded in 766 by the Buddhist monk Shojo Shunin (735-817). Due to its geographical isolation deep in the Japanese mountains, the site soon attracted Buddhist monks in search of privacy. It is still considered an important base for ascetic training among the Tendai monks.

Together with Nikko Teshu-gu, Futarasan Temple and 42 other buildings, it forms the Shrines, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

One of the most famous buildings in Rinno-ji is Sanbutsudo Hall (Hall of the Three Buddhas). This building features gilded statues of Amida Senju Kannon with a thousand arms and Butt Kannon with a horse's head.

Near Sambutsudo Hall there is the Se-an Garden and Rinno-ji Homotsu-den Hall ("Treasury of Rinno-ji", which houses an important collection of Buddhist art including sculptures, paintings, calligraphy, scrolls and other craft items).

The temple contains Daihatsu nehankyu shuge (commentaries on the sutras) and an important guide to the Nirvana Sutra in 59 manuscripts prepared by Nara and Heian. They are considered a national treasure.

Rinno-ji is just a few steps east of Toshogu, a 30-40 minute walk or a 10-minute bus ride.