Yakuō-in Sanmon Gate stands on Mount Takao in Hachioji, Tokyo, at the approach to Takao-san Yakuoin Temple. Built from cypress to mark the 1,150th anniversary of Kōbō Daishi’s death, it is also called the Four Heavenly Kings Gate. The four Buddhist guardian deities are enshrined inside, and a statue of Kōbō Daishi is on the upper floor. In summer, wind chimes sound along the approach. Passing through the gate is regarded in Buddhism as a step in preparing for worship and training.
A threshold on Mount Takao
Sanmon is the gate at the approach to Takao-san Yakuoin Temple. In Buddhist practice, passing through it is treated as a form of training, preparing the visitor for worship and further practice within the grounds.
From the gate, the route continues toward the main hall, main shrine and inner sanctuary. The gate is therefore part of the approach to the temple, not a separate endpoint.
The figures inside
The gate is also known as the Four Heavenly Kings Gate. Its four enshrined guardians are Zōchōten, Jikokuten, Tamonten and Kōmokuten. A statue of Kōbō Daishi is housed on the upper floor.
The cypress structure commemorates the 1,150th anniversary of Kōbō Daishi’s death. In summer, wind chimes add sound to the approach.
Preguntas frecuentes
What is Yakuō-in Sanmon Gate?
It is the mountain gate at the approach to Takao-san Yakuoin Temple in Hachioji, Tokyo. It is also called the Four Heavenly Kings Gate.
Which deities are enshrined inside the gate?
The four guardians are Zōchōten, Jikokuten, Tamonten and Kōmokuten.
Is there a statue of Kōbō Daishi at the gate?
Yes. A statue of Kōbō Daishi is on the gate’s upper floor.
When can you hear the wind chimes?
The wind chimes sound along the approach in summer.
