Jukō-in
Jukō-in is a sub-temple (院, in) of Daitoku-ji, a Rinzai Zen Buddhist temple complex located in Kyoto, Japan. Founded in 1535 by Kobori Enshū, though some sources credit the founding to Sōkyū, a wealthy merchant from Sakai, it is primarily known for its exquisite gardens and its connections to prominent figures in Japanese history, particularly tea masters and samurai.
Key Features:
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Gardens: Jukō-in boasts several notable gardens, including a famed rock garden (karesansui) attributed to Kobori Enshū. This garden is considered a masterpiece of dry landscape gardening, featuring carefully arranged rocks, gravel, and pruned shrubs to represent mountains, islands, and water. Another garden features a pond, which adds to the diversity of the temple's landscape.
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Tea Connections: As a sub-temple closely associated with Daitoku-ji, a center of Zen Buddhism and tea culture, Jukō-in has strong ties to the history of the Japanese tea ceremony (chanoyu). Its founder and patrons were often involved in tea practice, and the temple's aesthetic reflects the principles of wabi-sabi and the minimalist aesthetic valued in tea culture.
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Cultural Properties: Jukō-in houses several Important Cultural Properties, including paintings, calligraphy, and other art objects related to Zen Buddhism, tea ceremony, and the temple's founders and benefactors. These artifacts provide valuable insights into the history and cultural significance of the temple.
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Historical Significance: The temple's association with figures like Kobori Enshū and the merchant Sōkyū highlights the complex interplay between Zen Buddhism, the arts, commerce, and political power in pre-modern Japan. It serves as a tangible reminder of the patronage and influence of wealthy merchants and samurai on religious institutions and artistic expression.
Visiting:
Jukō-in is not always open to the public and often requires advance reservations for viewing the gardens and art. Special openings may occur during specific seasons or events. It is recommended to check the current opening schedule before planning a visit.