November 25, 2019
By Haruka Mishima
What a Sutra Is
Sutra copying is one of the customs of Japanese Buddhism. Sutra copying is called “Syakyo” in Japanese. Copying sutras is Buddhist training to get Buddhist teaching. When copying a sutra, people hope for things like peace, happiness, health, fortune, harmony for themselves, for their family and for humanity. You focus on writing each word of the sutra, and it is good to empty your mind. When you finish writing, you will feel refreshed in your body and mind.
Try Copying Sutra at Ryosokuin
I recommend copying sutra at Ryosokuin in Kyoto. The temple offers some English supports, therefor you can listen guideline with English. It is very good point for foreigners. A lot of people that are from foreign countries try copying sutra these days. I heard from the manager that one day 30 percent of participants were Japanese and 70 percent foreigners. When I heard about this, it was really surprising. Moreover, I am so happy. The reason for this is that a lot of people are interested in Japanese culture. In addition, it does not matter whether you are good at writing or not. It is a good thing to put your heart into the words. There are 4 seats near the window. You can enjoy good views each seasons, spring, summer, fall, and winter through the window. Although, the place is very quiet, you can listen to the wild of cries of animals in the summer.
Personal Experience of Sutra Copying
I tried copying a sutra in Ryosokuin. It was the first time to do that. I wrote a sutra for about 45 minutes, however, time passed very rapidly. I think that is why I did not lose concentration. In addition, the place was very nice and quiet. I could feel and see nature that was good with fresh green in the window while writing the sutra. When I finished writing, I felt relaxed. I was glad to write a sutra. I had a good experience, and want to go to there again. Therefore, I wanted share this experience with both Japanese and foreigners.
Location and Access
Address: 〒605-0811 591
Komatsucho Higashiyama-ku Kyoto-shi Kyoto-fu, Japan
Train
- Get off at Gionshizyo stationon the Keihan main line . Walk east, turn to your right at second traffic right, and walk the end of the Hanamikozi street.
- Get off at Kawaramachi station on the Hankyu Kyoto line, and walk 10 minutes.
- If you get off at JR Kyoto station, it is better to take a bus.
Bus
- Get off at Shizyokeihan, walk south along Yamatoozi street about 5 minutes.
- Get off at Higashiyamayasui, walk about 2 to 3 minutes at Yasui street.
- Get off Minamizamae, walk about 10minuts.
- Get off Gion, walk about 10 minutes.
Telephone Number: 075-561-3216
(The telephone reception is from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
Website: https://ryosokuin.com/introduction/
Details
Fee: 1000 yen per person
The required time: 40-60 minutes (depends on the person)
Seating capacity: 8 people
Attention
Please get permission when you take pictures while copying a sutra. I got permission to take pictures.