In the quiet green mountains of Takao, northwest of Kyoto, there’s a beautiful old temple called Kōzan-ji (高山寺). It’s over 1,200 years old, and when you walk there, it feels like stepping into another world — one filled with tall trees, singing birds, and peaceful air.
A Wise Monk Named Myōe
A long time ago, a monk named Myōe (明恵) made Kōzan-ji famous. He was a kind and thoughtful man who loved learning, writing, and drawing. He believed that nature was full of wisdom and that people should live simply and kindly.
He even kept a dream diary, where he wrote down what he saw in his dreams — and those writings still exist today!
Japan’s First “Manga” Scrolls
One of the most special things about Kōzan-ji is a set of picture scrolls called Chōjū-jinbutsu-giga (鳥獣人物戯画) — which means “Funny Pictures of Animals and People.”
These scrolls show animals doing human things: frogs wrestling, rabbits racing, monkeys having fun. 🐸🐰🐵 They were drawn more than 800 years ago with simple black ink and no words, just pictures.
Many people think this is the first manga ever made in Japan! Today, the original scrolls are in museums, but you can see amazing copies at Kōzan-ji.
A Temple in the Forest
Kōzan-ji isn’t a big, shiny temple. Instead, it’s quiet and peaceful, surrounded by tall cedar trees. The air smells fresh, and moss grows thick on the stones.
The temple’s most important building is called Sekisuiin Hall. It’s a National Treasure and holds ancient writings, Buddhist scriptures, and artwork that Myōe cared for hundreds of years ago.
In autumn, the trees around Kōzan-ji turn red and gold — one of the most beautiful sights in all of Kyoto. 🍁
What’s Nearby
If you explore a bit more of Takao, you can visit:
- Jingo-ji Temple, where people throw small clay discs (kawarake-nage) to let go of bad luck.
- The Kiyotaki River, where the water runs cool and clear — perfect for a quiet walk or a picnic.
- Tiny tea shops where you can rest and enjoy warm matcha with a view of the mountains. 🍵
Quick Temple Facts
- Name: Kōzan-ji (高山寺)
- Place: Takao, Kyoto, Japan
- Founded: Around 774 CE
- Famous For: The “Animal Scrolls” (Chōjū-giga), Myōe the monk, and peaceful forest views
- Best Time to Visit: Autumn or early summer
Why It’s Special
Kōzan-ji isn’t just a temple — it’s a place where art, laughter, and nature all come together. The playful animals remind us that even long ago, people used art to tell stories, share joy, and reflect on life.
When you walk through Kōzan-ji, you can almost imagine the frogs and rabbits coming to life, hopping through the forest, and smiling at the people who stop to visit. 🌿
Comments