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Manpuku-ji: A Chinese Zen Temple in Kyoto

Discover Manpuku-ji in Uji, Kyoto: A unique Zen temple with Ming Dynasty architecture and serene cultural experiences.

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Manpuku-ji is a Buddhist temple in Uji, Kyoto, and serves as the head temple of the Ōbaku Zen school. Founded in 1661 by Chinese monk Yinyuan Longqi, its Ming Dynasty architecture distinguishes it from other temples in the area.

A brief summary to Manpuku-ji

  • Monday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Friday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-4:30 pm

Local tips

  • Take a moment to appreciate the Chinese-influenced architecture, distinct from typical Japanese temples.
  • Try Fucha Ryori, the Chinese-style vegetarian cuisine, by making a reservation at least three days in advance.
  • Participate in a Zazen (meditation) or Shakyo (sutra copying) session for a deeper cultural experience.
  • Listen for the Gyoban (wooden fish gong) which signals mealtimes and other activities in the temple.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Kyoto Station, take the JR Nara Line to Obaku Station. Alternatively, take the Keihan Uji Line to Obaku Station. From either station, it is approximately a 5-minute walk to Manpuku-ji Temple. The train fare from Kyoto Station to Obaku Station is around ¥240.

  • Walking

    From Obaku Station (both JR and Keihan lines), exit the station and walk straight. Follow the signs for Manpuku-ji Temple. The walk is approximately 5 minutes and will take you through a shopping arcade.

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Discover more about Manpuku-ji

Manpuku-ji, nestled in Uji, Kyoto, is more than just a temple; it's a journey into a unique blend of Chinese and Japanese Zen Buddhism. Founded in 1661 by Yinyuan Longqi (Ingen in Japanese), a Chinese monk, it stands as the head temple of the Ōbaku Zen school, the smallest of the Japanese Zen sects. What sets Manpuku-ji apart is its distinctive Ming Dynasty Chinese architectural style. Unlike the more familiar Japanese temple designs, Manpuku-ji boasts a sprawling layout with grand paths lined with pines and covered walkways adorned with gilded lanterns. The temple's design is said to be in the shape of a dragon. The main hall, Daiohoden, is constructed from teak wood and features two round windows at its front. Inside, visitors can find a statue of Hotei, the Laughing Buddha, and intricate wooden statues of Buddhist saints. The temple is also known for its gyoban, a large, flat wooden fish-shaped instrument used to mark mealtimes and sutra recitations. Manpuku-ji offers a variety of cultural experiences, including zazen meditation and sutra copying. The temple is also known for its fucha ryōri, a Chinese-style vegetarian cuisine traditionally eaten by monks. The temple was also the principle disseminator of sencha, a style of tea ceremony that utilizes green tea leaves rather than powdered matcha. Manpuku-ji provides a serene escape from the crowds, offering a glimpse into a unique chapter of Zen Buddhism in Japan.

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