Seiganj Temple

Seigan-ji is a head temple of the Jodo-shu Seizan Fukakusa sect, founded in 667 CE by the monk Eiin at the command of Emperor Tenji in Nara. The temple was later transferred to Kyoto, where Shoku — a disciple of Honen — established the Seizan school of Pure Land Buddhism. Notable court ladies such as Sei Shonagon and Izumi Shikibu were devotees here, earning it renown as a temple welcoming women's salvation. In 1591, Toyotomi Hideyoshi ordered its relocation to Shinkyogoku, with his consort Kyogoku Tatsuko funding the reconstruction. Today it is also celebrated as the birthplace of Japanese rakugo comedy, and a Sentozuka stone honors performing artists who pray for success.