Chion-in Temple in Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City is hosting free tours of the construction site of Seishido, a nationally designated Important Cultural Property, which is currently undergoing repairs.
Seishido, built in 1530, is the oldest building at Chion-in Temple and has a gabled roof and tiled roof. To mark the 850th anniversary of the founding of the Jodo sect in 2024, partial dismantling and repairs began in November 2024. The work is scheduled to be completed at the end of October 2030.
Tours are held on the second Sunday of every month except August. Reservations are booked through July, and reservations are currently being accepted for dates from September onwards.
Seishido is covered with a temporary roof to protect it from the elements during repairs, but tours allow visitors to enter under the roof and get a close-up look at the restoration site. Chion-in Temple staff will guide you around the site, explaining its history and more.
Capacity is limited to 30 people per month. To apply, contact Chion-in Temple on 075-531-2241.
