, formally identified as , is a temple of the Rinzai school of Zen Buddhism in Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, Japan—the largest subtemple of the Kennin-ji branch. History It was established in 1606 by the nun Kōdai-in (often known by the title Kita no Mandokoro), who was the widow of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, to pray for her late husband. The principal image is a statue of Shaka. The gardens of Kōdai-ji are a nationally designated Historic Site and Place of Scenic Beauty. The temple possesses a number of objects designated as Important Cultural Assets. Among these are the Main Gate and the Spirit Hall, noted for its use of maki-e. The temple is nicknamed the maki-e temple." It also holds paintings, including one of Hideyoshi, as well as textiles, and a bronze bell with an inscription dating it to 1606. See also Glossary of Japanese Buddhism Ryozen Kannon, neighbouring shrine References External links Official English site 高台寺, official site (in Japanese and Chinese) Kennin-ji temples Buddhist temples in Kyoto Places of Scenic Beauty Historic Sites of Japan 1606 establishments in Japan Important Cultural Properties of Japan