Kiyomizu Kannon-do Temple

It was built in 1631 in the precincts of Toeizan Kan'ei-ji Temple. Kan'ei-ji Temple was established by Tenkai Daisojo (the highest rank of priesthood) to provide security to the Tokugawa shogunate and tranquility to its people, and also to protect Edo Castle's northeastern gate (which was believed to be unlucky). Many temple halls, modeled after the pattern of famous temples in Kyoto, were built. Kiyomizu Kannon-do Temple is one of them, with the no-nail construction that imitates that of Kiyomizu Temple in Kyoto Higashiyama. Today, it is designated an Important Cultural Property of the country, with an impressively vivid cinnabar facade. The Senju Kannon statue, the main image of the temple, created by Eshin Sozu, was also inspired by Kiyomizu Temple and today is worshiped as ”hibutsu,” a hidden Buddha. In addition, the ”Moon Pine,” one of the ukiyo-e masterpieces by Utagawa Hiroshige (a painter of the Edo era), depicted in the series called ”One Hundred Famous Views of Edo,” has been restored after about 150 years. The rare pine branch that makes a complete revolution is a must-see. It is an 8-minute walk from JR (Japan Railways) Ueno Station.