Ichijōji Sanjū-no-tō (Three-Story Pagoda at Ichijōji)

Basic Information

Catalog ID: 102
Item ID: 2388
Category: Structures
Country: Japan
Period: Late Heian Period (794–1185)
Date designated: March 27, 1901
Prefecture: Hyogo
Location: Sakamoto-cho, Kasai City, Hyōgo Prefecture
Owner: Ichijōji

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

Overview

The Ichijōji Sanjū-no-tō is a representative Buddhist pagoda (butsutō) dating back to the Late Heian Period, located at Hōkaisen Ichijōji Temple in Kasai City, Hyōgo Prefecture. It is considered one of the oldest documented three-story pagodas still existing in Japan and is recognized as an extremely valuable structure that exemplifies Heian architecture.

Historical Background

This pagoda was constructed in 1171 (Shōan Gannen), during the late Heian Period. This date is confirmed by an inscription found on the sōrin (finial) at the top of the tower, making it a crucial reference point for studying Japanese architectural history due to its clear historical dating within the Heian period. It was initially designated as a National Treasure in 1901 (now classified as an Important Cultural Property) and later elevated to National Treasure status based on its profound historical and artistic value in 1952.

Features and Appeal

Its most striking feature is its graceful appearance, which embodies the pinnacle of Wayo-shiki (Japanese architectural style). Its appeal stems from several key elements:

Pronounced Tapering Rate: The size of the roof decreases significantly from the first story to the third. This strong “tapering” (teigen) gives the entire pagoda a sense of stability and unique power.
Elegant Eaves: The gentle slope of the roof, characteristic of Heian architecture, combined with deeply projecting eaves, harmonizes beautifully with the surrounding natural environment.
Internal Structure and Decoration: Inside, a central pillar (shinbashira) stands in the core. Murals, such as depictions of the Eight Patriarchs of Tenda, adorn the pillars and walls of the first story. Furthermore, the interior is designed as a “decorative attic” (kesho yaneura), where the structural elements of the roof are visible without covering them with a ceiling, preserving the original architectural style of the time.
Historical Landscape: Located within the grounds of the 26th temple on the Saigoku Sanjū-sanno pilgrimage route, its commanding presence atop the hill is breathtaking. Its setting—integrated with the seasonal changes of nature, such as fresh green leaves and autumn foliage—makes it a representative historical landscape for Hyōgo Prefecture.