One of my favorite temples is Sekizanzenin Temple in Shugakuin area. It is a historic temple which has guarded the demon’s gate of the capital since the Heian period. The demon’s gate faces northeast and is said to been used for entrance and exit of demons.Therefore it is also well known as a temple of protection for removing calamities related to direction. Above all, monkeys, the animal of this year, are on the roof of the oratory hall to guard the imperial palace where the emperor resided.

Since the temple is dedicated to Fukurokuju (the God of Wealth and Longevity) which is one of the seven gods of Good Fortune, it has the power of longevity. Omikuji with the shape of Fukurokuju (500 yen) is so cute. There are monkeys, animal of the year, and the God of Wealth and Longevity at this temple. I think it is very difficult to find an auspicious temple like this temple.

For more information, click here (google map). About 15 min.walk from City Bus “Shugakuinrikyu-michi” stop