Every year on 15th August, Gessho-ji Temple transforms into a magical world of light during its special event, Mandoue. This event is a time for offering prayers of thanks for all life, and the temple grounds, illuminated with soft, glowing lights, create an atmosphere that feels almost otherworldly. It’s a truly captivating experience that invites visitors to lose themselves in the serene beauty of the evening
Event Overview:
Gessho-ji Temple was illuminated in an enchanting display on 15 August during its annual illumination event, Mandoue. This event offers prayers of thanksgiving for all life. The fantastic atmosphere of the temple precinct captivated many visitors.
Location and Atmosphere
Just north of Matsue Castle, one of Matsue’s most renowned sightseeing spots awaits. The temple is nestled among a dense forest of towering, ancient Japanese cedars and radiates eerie tranquillity. This serene sanctuary, where nature’s timelessness envelops solemn tombstone memorials, is the final resting place of the Matsue Clan lords.
Historical Significance:
Gessho-ji Temple was established in 1664 by Naomasa Matsudaira, the first lord of Matsue and a relative of the famous Tokugawa shogun. Naomasa was a brave samurai known for his role in the Siege of Osaka Castle. His tomb, marked by a gate adorned with a striking tiger painting, can be found within the temple grounds. Although the main hall was demolished during the anti-Buddhist campaigns of the Meiji Restoration, the temple retains a peaceful and sacred atmosphere.
The temple gained international fame through the writings of Lafcadio Hearn (known in Japan as Koizumi Yakumo), particularly in his book Glimpses of Unfamiliar Japan. Hearn’s vivid descriptions of Matsue’s unique culture and traditions brought this temple to the world’s attention. One of the must-see sights here is the legendary turtle statue, which Hearn wrote about, claiming that it roams the streets of Matsue every night—though the locals say it’s actually a dragon in disguise!
Seasonal Highlights
During the Japanese rainy season, from late June to early July, enchanting hydrangeas bloom at Gessho-ji Temple, adding a vibrant touch of colour to the tranquil surroundings. This period offers a unique experience for visitors, as the temple is bathed in the gentle hues of these flowers.
Transportation and Accessibility
Thanks to Japan’s efficient transportation system, reaching Matsue is a breeze. The Sunrise Izumo sleeper train offers a 12-hour journey from Tokyo to Matsue Station, complete with private cabins and scenic views, for about 50,000 yen (approx. $450 USD/£350 GBP) roundtrip. Alternatively, the Shinkansen can whisk you there in about eight hours, with a change at Okayama Station to the Local Limited Express Yakumo for under 40,000 yen roundtrip. Once at Matsue Station, visitors can easily reach Gessho-ji Temple by bus, taxi, or a scenic bicycle ride along the lake and castle.
(Words by Takashi Saito)
179 Uchinakahara, Matsue
How to Get to Gessho-Ji Temple
From JR Matsue Station, visitors can take either the Matsue Lake Line Bus by the Matsue City Bus or the Ichidata Bus for Etomo or Mitsu. Get off at the Gessho-Ji Iriguchi bus stop (approximately 15 minutes). The school building in front of the bus stop is a convenient landmark. Walk to Gessho-ji Temple: Approximately 8 minutes.
Gurutto Matsue Lake Line
- Departure: Matsue Station (Kokuhō Matsue Castle-mae Bus Stop)
- Arrival: Gessho-ji Temple-mae Bus Stop –
- Fare: ¥210
Etomo Mitsu-bound Bus
- Departure: Matsue Station (Kenmin Kaikan-mae Bus Stop)
- Arrival: Gessho-ji Temple Entrance Bus Stop
- Fare: ¥210
Business Hours
- Temple: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
- Tea Lounge: 10:30 am – 5:30 pm (Green tea with Japanese confectionery: ¥500 per person)
Note: Admission is allowed up to 30 minutes before closing time in all seasons.
Admission Fees
- Adults: ¥500
- Junior and High School Students: ¥300
- Elementary School Students: ¥250