Nison-in Temple is located on the eastern foot of Mount Ogura in Kyoto, belonging to the Tendai sect of Buddhism. It is renowned for its picturesque autumn colors and the beautiful landscape surroundings for over 1200 years. The name Nison-in is derived from the two Buddhist statues it holds; Shaka Nyorai and Amida Nyorai. The formal name for the temple is Ogurayama Nison-in Kadaiji. It was first built between the years 834 - 848 by the Emperor Saga’s command and constructed by the great priest Jikaku-Daishi. Within the grounds are the main hall, imperial envoy gate, main gate, Hachisha-no-miya shrine, a belfry and the mausoleum of the Priest Tanku. There is also a graveyard that holds the ashes of Emperor Tsuchimikado, Emperor Go-Saga and Emperor Kameyama. The two revered statues in the main hall are designated Important Cultural Properties of Japan and many more of the temple treasures are designated Cultural Properties of Kyoto.
The enshrined figures of Shaka Nyorai on the right
and Amida Nyorai on the left.
The two revered statues at Nison-in are of two different Buddhas. Shaka Nyorai, also known as Gautama Buddha of Hakken, is the one who sends those seeking rebirth in paradise from this side of the world. Amida Nyorai on the other hand, receives them on the other side. The pair represent the beginning and the end of one’s life. This way of thinking was spread by the great priest Zendo-Daishi through the metaphor of the two rivers (Nigabyakudo) in the Tang dynasty of China. When his teachings arrived in Japan, it was inherited by Honen Shonin. Symmetrically painted in gold with gleaming, crystal eyes, the two figures stand together to watch over the temple grounds and the people who visit them.