The Teahouse at Jakko-in
The teahouse at Jakko-in Temple was constructed in November 1928 to celebrate the enthronement of Emperor Hirohito (1901–1989). Originally, it stood on the grounds of the Imperial Palace in Kyoto. Six years later, it was dismantled and moved to this location.
The teahouse is used in the autumn months by the Urasenke school, which was founded by Sen no Rikyu (1522–1591) and remains one of the three main schools of tea ceremony.
The style of the teahouse is believed to be similar to the home in which the Empress Dowager Taira no Tokuko (1155–1214) lived after entering the temple as a nun in 1185. The simple structure is thatched and has sliding shoji doors that open onto a wooden balcony. Tatami mats cover the floor, including a small panel that conceals the sunken hearth. In the alcove hangs a scroll with an inscription or image that celebrates the season or special occasions.