Founded During the Warring States Period
The history of Daiyuin dates back to 1583, during Japan’s Warring States period. The temple was founded by Fujiu Kii-no-kami Yoshihisa, a retainer of the Yura clan, who ruled Kanayama Castle in what is now Ota City.
Yoshihisa invited the Zen monk Nichiei Shunsaku from Jorinji Temple in Numata, in what was then known as Kozuke Province, to establish Daiyuin as a place of Zen practice.
The temple is believed to have originally stood at another location. After being destroyed by fire during the upheavals of the period, it was moved to its present site during the Tensho era.
During the Edo period, the temple grounds and buildings were developed, and Daiyuin flourished as a center for Zen training. At its height, it had seven affiliated temples and played an important role in the spiritual and cultural life of the surrounding area.
Having survived more than four centuries of historical change, Daiyuin continues to preserve its Buddhist tradition and heritage.
The Magnificent Embroidered Nirvana Painting
One of Daiyuin’s most important treasures is its Embroidered Nirvana Painting, designated an Important Cultural Property by Gunma Prefecture.
The work was created in 1705 at the initiative of the temple’s fourth head priest, Kak’un Osho. It is an enormous piece measuring approximately 245 centimeters high and 240 centimeters wide.
Rather than being painted, the image was painstakingly embroidered. A design was first drawn on white silk cloth, after which gold thread and brightly colored silk strips were arranged diagonally and carefully sewn together with fine silk thread.
The central scene depicts Buddha Shakyamuni entering nirvana beneath the sala trees. Surrounding him are his disciples, bodhisattvas, birds, animals, dragons, qilin, and other creatures, all expressing grief at the Buddha’s passing.
The subdued colors, delicate embroidery, and brilliant gold-thread outlines create a solemn and impressive atmosphere that differs from the beauty of a conventional painting.
A Monumental Work Supported by the Community
It is said that several hundred donors contributed to the creation of this enormous religious artwork. Their support reflects the strong faith and devotion of the people of the period.
The embroidered Nirvana Painting remains carefully preserved inside the main hall, where it continues to impress visitors with its remarkable craftsmanship and spiritual atmosphere.
A Historic Gate with the Four Heavenly Kings
The temple’s Sanmon Gate was constructed in 1743 and is designated an Important Cultural Property by Kiryu City.
The gate has the form of a two-story gate with a three-bay-wide entrance and features an impressive irimoya-style hipped-and-gabled roof. Key structural elements were made from zelkova wood, while the front and rear sections are decorated with intricate carvings of lion heads, reclining dragons, cranes, and tortoises.
Inside the gate are statues of the Four Heavenly Kings, Buddhist guardian deities who protect the four directions. Each figure is shown standing powerfully while trampling a jaki, a small demon-like representation of evil.
On the upper floor are statues of Taishakuten, or Indra, and the Sixteen Arhats, revered Buddhist disciples who attained spiritual realization.
The elaborate architectural details and wood carvings make the gate a remarkable example of traditional craftsmanship. It is also the only gate in Kiryu City known for housing the Four Heavenly Kings, giving it particular historical importance.
Zen Practice and Religious Events Today
Daiyuin continues to serve as an active temple, holding Buddhist ceremonies and community events throughout the year.
During New Year’s morning prayers and the temple’s Good Fortune Festival, visitors pray for protection from misfortune and for the safety and well-being of their families.
In February, the temple holds a Nehan-e ceremony, commemorating the Buddha’s passing. The embroidered Nirvana Painting provides an especially meaningful connection to this Buddhist observance.
During the spring and autumn Higan memorial services, visitors honor their ancestors while reflecting on Buddhist teachings. Higan is a traditional Japanese Buddhist observance held around the spring and autumn equinoxes.
Monthly Zazen Meditation
Daiyuin also holds regular zazen meditation sessions. Zazen is the practice of seated meditation central to Zen Buddhism, offering participants an opportunity to sit quietly and turn their attention inward.
Morning rice porridge is also served on certain occasions, allowing visitors to experience the simple and peaceful lifestyle associated with a Zen temple.
A Zen Temple Surrounded by Kiryu’s Natural Beauty
With its elevated position overlooking Kiryu, Daiyuin is a place where history, Buddhist culture, and nature come together.
From its foundation during the Warring States period to the present day, the temple has been preserved through the faith and support of generations of local people. Its long history makes it an important part of Kiryu’s cultural heritage.
When visiting Kiryu, consider climbing the temple steps, passing through the historic Sanmon Gate, and taking a quiet moment of prayer in front of the main hall.
The combination of more than 400 years of spiritual history, remarkable cultural treasures, traditional architecture, and the peaceful scenery of the Hachioji Hills creates an atmosphere that invites visitors to slow down and appreciate the enduring traditions of Japan.