Choraku-ji Temple Repository

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The garden here was created in the Muromachi period in a trial run for the garden at Ginkaku-ji

A historic spot at the base of the Higashiyama Mountains

In 805, this temple was founded by Saicho (Tendai sect founder) as a sub temple of Enryaku-ji Temple. The principal image of the temple - Juntei Kannon (Cundi) riding two dragon spirits – is reputed to be carved by Saicho and others because he saw such a heavenly vision that supposedly saved him from a tempest besieging his boat on a crossing to China. This image can only be seen on days when an imperial emissary makes a visit. In terms of history, the temple is famous as the location where Kenreimonin (Tokuko), the daughter of Kiyomori and the mother of Emperor Antoku, had her head shaved and underwent the ceremonies to become a Buddhist nun.
The temple repository has a permanent exhibition of seven Important Cultural Properties and other exhibits in its safekeeping. These include pieces related to the Heike family made by Kenreimonin and a portrait of her that seems to be inked over, possibly to deceive the Genji clan (the Heike’s deadly enemy), who would have been against such an icon. Other special exhibitions also are held here in spring and autumn.