Yoshimitsu and Shôkoku-ji

At that time Yoshimitsu was residing at the Muromachi palace, the so-called "Palace of Flowers" located at the intersection of Muromachi and Kamidachiuri Streets in Kyoto. Wishing to build the new temple in the same area, he selected the environs of Anshô-ji, which were adjacent to the palace grounds on the east, and ordered the relocation of all homes in the area. The mansions of many court nobles serving the emperor were located there, but rich and poor alike were evacuated, a show of force not unlike the Heike's transfer of the capital from Kyoto to Fukuhara centuries earlier.

As early as October 1382, construction had begun on the Dharma Hall (Hattô) and Buddha Hall (Butsuden) under the direction of Shun'oku Myôha, who had been given full responsibility for the construction of the new temple. Yoshimitsu also personally monitored the progress. The Kano clan of Iyo Province transported the lumber, and various lords were called on to make contributions to the temple's construction.

In December of that year Shun'oku Myôha took up residence as abbot, and in 1384 construction began on the Great Buddha Hall (Daibutsuden). At this time, the temple was officially named Mannenzan Shôkoku-ji Jôten Zenji. In 1386 work began on the three temple gates. At this time Shun'oku Myôha retired at the advanced age of 76 and was succeeded by Kûkoku Myôô (1328-1407). Shôkoku-ji was finally completed in 1392 and a dedication ceremony was conducted by imperial decree.