South of Kanzeon-ji‘s grounds, you will find a temple called Kaidanin (戒壇院). It was originally a sub-temple of Kanzeon-ji when it was erected in 761 as a designated place for monks to receive Buddhist precepts. Apparently, the ceremony of passing down Buddhist precepts at Kaidanin had continued until 1554. In ancient Japan, there were only three places where monks could receive precepts. The other two temples are Tōdai-ji (東大寺) in Nara and Yakishi-ji (下野薬師寺) in Tochigi Prefecture.
About Kaidanin
In the mid-8th century, a monk called Ganjin (鑑真) was invited from China to Japan. He contributed largely to propagating Buddhism in Japan. Kaidanin was one of the temples where he passed down the Buddhist precepts following an order from Emperor Shōmu (聖武天皇) in 761.
The temple was separated from Kanzeon-ji and became a temple practising Zen Buddhism in 1703. It is now a Rinzai sect temple.
Besides the cultural properties, the nature and the dry garden are the highlights at Kaidanin. The 200-year-old linden tree in the garden blooms in early June. The flowers’ fragrance will help you further relax in this quiet spot.
Apparently, the tree relates to those that were brought by Ganjin when he traveled to Japan thousands of years ago!
The Cultural Properties at Kaidanin
Kaidanin’s main worship hall was rebuilt in 1680. The main image at Kaidanin is Birushana Buddha (毘盧遮那仏), the same as Tōdai-ji. The statue made in the 12th century is registered as an important cultural property. You will notice that his face is more rounded. It is one of the features of the Heian period.
The two Bodhisattvas on the sides of Birushana Buddha are Maitreya Bodhisattva and Manjushri. Both of them were completed in 1700. Maitreya Bodhisattva on the left holds a five-story pagoda in his right hand, representing the 2500 precepts that are passed down at Kaidanin. Manjushri on the right has sutras in his hand, representing the wisdom that he brings.
While you can see the three statues from the outside, it is possible to enter Kaidanin’s main worship hall by making an appointment. You can also visit the temple office for a brief tour.
Kaidanin’s Opening Hours, Admission Fee, and Access Information
- Kaidanin’s main worship hall can be opened with an appointment between 9 am and 4 pm.
- The admission fee of 500 yen is required to enter the main worship hall.
- Kaidanin is next to Kaizeon-ji Temple.
Discover Other Attractions in Dazaifu
Among the popular tourist destinations near Fukuoka City, Dazaifu tops the list. The city that is filled with cultural and historical spots is perfect for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the big city. Apart from Dazaifu Tenman-gū and Kaidanin, there are a couple more beautiful gardens in the city and hiking trails leading to panoramic views!
For more information, refer to our article on Dazaifu!
