Rengeō-in Hondō (Sanjuusangō Hall)

Basic Information

Catalog ID: 102
Item ID: 1747
Category: Structures
Country: Japan
Period: Early Kamakura Period
Date designated: March 29, 1952
Prefecture: Kyoto
Location: Myōhō-in Temple (Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto)
Owner: Myōhō-in

Source: Excerpted from the National Designated Cultural Properties Database (https://kunishitei.bunka.go.jp/bsys/index)

Overview

The Rengeō-in Hondō is widely known by its common name, Sanjuusangō Hall, and stands as a representative historical structure in Kyoto. It boasts one of Japan’s longest wooden buildings, stretching approximately 120 meters north to south. The hall contains an overwhelming religious space, featuring a collection of National Treasure sculptures, including the 1,001 Kannon Bodhisattva statues, making it a globally recognized tourist destination.

Historical Background

The hall was originally constructed in 1164 (Nara/Heian transition period) on grounds belonging to Hōjū-ji Temple, which served as a key center for the retired Emperor Go-Shirakawa’s Insei (regency rule). It was commissioned by Taira no Kiyomori. The original structure burned down in 1249 during the Genkō era. The current main hall is a reconstruction from the Kamakura Period, built in 1266 upon the command of Retired Emperor Saga. Today, it is owned and managed by Myōhō-in, which is a temple belonging to the Tendai sect.

Features and Appeal

Japan’s Longest Wooden Structure and the Origin of “33”: The hall extends lengthwise, and its name, Sanjuusangō (Thirty-Three Bays Hall), comes from the fact that there are 33 internal pillars (kukan) within the main sanctuary. This number symbolizes the teaching that Kannon Bodhisattva appears in 33 different forms to save humanity. With a total length of about 120 meters, it represents one of Japan’s largest architectural scales.
Junwa Style Architecture: The building style is based on the Junwa style characteristic of the Kamakura Period. Despite its immense size, the exterior—featuring a hip roof and tiled roofing—maintains an extremely balanced and refined proportion.
1,001 Kannon Statues and National Treasure Sculptures: At the center stands the National Treasure Thousand-Armed Kannon Seated Statue (Senzu). Flanking this central piece are 500 life-sized standing statues on each side, creating a tiered arrangement often described as a “Forest of Buddhas.” Furthermore, the front row houses National Treasures such as the Wind and Thunder Gods and the Twenty-Eight Protectors, vividly embodying the appearance of Paradise.
Historical Traditions: The hall is famous for being the stage for the Tōshiya (passing arrow ceremony), held from the Edo Period to this day. This tradition, where arrows are shot through the eaves across the entire 120-meter length, conveys a cultural connection to the spirit and traditions of the samurai class.