“Kondo” is one term for a temple’s primary hall of worship, which typically houses important objects of veneration. Kosanji’s Kondo enshrines Shaka Nyorai (Shakyamuni Buddha), the historical Buddha and founder of Buddhism. After the death of his parents at age eight, Myoe (1173–1232), who went on to found Kosanji, began to regard Shaka Nyorai as a father figure.
Shaka Nyorai (Shakyamuni Buddha)
The original Kondo was completed in 1219, 13 years after Kosanji was founded. An old map showing the layout of the temple complex indicates that the first Kondo had an elaborate structure and was surrounded by several buildings. It is believed to have housed numerous treasures, including a piece by the master sculptor Unkei (1150–1223). However, the entire structure burned down in a fire in 1547, along with most of the buildings in the temple precinct.
In 1634, a building from Kyoto’s Ninnaji Temple was relocated to Kosanji and renovated, creating the Kondo that we see today. The newer building stands on the same site as the original.
Omuro Ninnaji Temple
The temple is the head temple of the Omuro school of the Shingon sect, located in Ukyo Ward, Kyoto City. It was founded in 888.
