The entrance to the Seiryoji Temple Treasure House

Highlights

It is said that the face of Shaka Nyorai in the Amida triad sculpture (National Treasure) is a likeness of Hikaru Genji

Treasure house built to hold Buddha images built between Heian and Kamakura eras

The principle Buddhist image of this temple is a standing statue of Shaka Nyorai, which is why Seiryo-ji Temple also is affectionately known as Saga Shaka-do. This Buddhist sculpture was brought to Japan from Sung-dynasty China by Chonen, a monk at Todai-ji Temple, Nara. Featuring black pearls for eyes, crystal ear studs, knotted hairstyle and a flowing robe hanging from the shoulders, this Buddhist statue emphatically carries the influence of the western region of India.
The many temple artworks kept in the Reiho-kan can be viewed twice a year in spring and autumn. The 1st floor features National Treasure Amida triad, the principal image of Seika, which was made as a memorial statue for Minamoto-no-Tooru, the model for Hikaru Genji, one of the main characters in The Tale of Genji, and other statures, all of them Important Cultural Properties. The 2nd floor is home to ancient documents, sutras and silk models of human organs found inside the principal image of Shaka Nyorai (standing statue).

Facility Information

Facility name Seiryo-ji Temple Reiho-kan
Address 46 Saga Shakudo Fujinoki-cho, Ukyo-ku
URL http://seiryoji.or.jp/
Contact 075-861-0343

Please check each facility's website for opening hours, fees, and other details.