This can refer to the sub-temples that occupy space within the precinct of a large temple with their own territory and organizational structure, or to the monks who reside within such sub-temples.
大寺院の内部においてその一郭を占めて、寺院本体とは別に独自の所領・組織を保有した別院を構成する塔頭及びそこに止住する僧侶集団を指す。